Protocol and Etiquette

Present By DR. Noha Sami

Introduction
Though protocol and etiquette are not uncommon terms a glance at the definitions of both
terms tends to present some form of confusion, particularly when trying to identify the
difference between the two.

This is because the two terms are interpreted to mean a set of rules and norms governing
the behavior of people. Given the ambiguity in this interpretation, it is important to have a
basic idea of the distinction between the two terms before proceeding to examine their
definitions in detail.

Thus, think of Etiquette as a set of norms and conventions governing social behavior, in
general. In contrast, Protocol refers to the code of conduct or behavior prescribed for
government and international officials. Let’s take a closer look
What is Etiquette?
The term Etiquette is derived from the French language and is defined as the customary
code of polite behavior or the contemporary conventions, forms, manners, rules, or
ceremonies governing social behavior. This code or set of conventions and manners are
recognized as acceptable and required in societal relations.
Such rules or norms are not limited to society’s interactions in general but also includes
relations within a social or professional group. Thus, for example, Etiquette also refers to the
code of conduct or ethics prescribed in certain professions such as the medical or legal
profession. This code of ethics will govern the practice and actions of such professionals in
their interactions with each other.
Keep in mind, however, that the purpose of Etiquette is not to simply prescribe the ‘dos’ and
‘don’ts’ of polite behavior or good manners, such as how to sit at a table, how to eat or how
to converse with other people. Instead, the underlying objective of Etiquette is to produce
polite, respectful people who demonstrate a behavior that is kind, polite, dignified, and
respectful.
Above all, Etiquette seeks to ensure that people are treated with and shown respect.
An example of this is a conversation between two people. Etiquette requires that you wait
till a person finishes his/her explanation, narration or expression of a view before expressing
your own thoughts or opinion on that matter. Interrupting a person while he/she is still
talking, in a rude and impolite manner, is not an accepted norm of Etiquette.
What is Protocol?
As mentioned before, Protocol is like Etiquette but on a more official and international level.
Traditionally, it is defined as the etiquette of diplomacy and affairs of the state. This means
that Protocol constitutes the code of behavior, ceremonial forms, courtesies, and procedure
accepted and required for interactions between heads of states, government and/or
diplomatic officials.

Protocols take on a more serious nature in that they are rules detailing how certain activities
should be carried out and how government and international officials must conduct
themselves. As with Etiquette, a Protocol establishes the correct, formal and polite behavior
that should be maintained by the above-mentioned officials. However, unlike Etiquette,
which governs the polite behavior of society in general, Protocol focuses on the behavior of
government and/or diplomatic officials including heads of states.
Protocols facilitate the smooth interaction between such officials, the ultimate aim to avoid
unnecessary confrontation or disharmony. Examples of such rules include the manner in
which diplomatic ceremonies are conducted, demonstrating respect to a head of state and
such others. This represents one interpretation of Protocol. The term Protocol also has a
legal connotation. Thus, legally, it refers to an international agreement that amends or
supplements a treaty or convention. Further, the term is also used to denote the first draft
of a treaty or other diplomatic document.
What is the difference between Protocol and Etiquette?
Collectively, the terms Etiquette and Protocol refer to a set of rules, conventions, and norms
that govern the behavior of people in general and in certain situations. They differ in terms
of their sphere of influence and nature of the rules.
• Definition of Protocol and Etiquette:
• Etiquette refers to the customary code of social behavior or rather, a system of accepted
rules, conventions, and norms governing polite behavior and interactions among society. It
also includes the set of norms and ethics governing the behavior of professional
bodies such as the medical and/or legal profession.
• Protocol, on the other hand, refers to the code of conduct and behavior governing
diplomacy and affairs of the state. It constitutes a set of rules, forms, ceremonies, and
procedures adhered to and adopted by diplomatic and government officials in their
international relations with states.
• Other meanings of Protocol:
• A Protocol also refers to a legal document, more specifically, an international agreement
that either supplements or amends a treaty or convention.
History of etiquette and Protocol
The earliest recorded codification of ideal social practices may be found in the 3rd
millennium BC in the writings of Ptahhotep, a vizier in ancient Egypt, who stressed the
importance of civil virtues towards others.
Early writings of the Egyptians show that they used rules to govern everyday rituals. Rituals
developed through the centuries into what we now know as good manners. Today, protocol
is the accepted practice of international etiquette. Protocol is therefore often considered
the glue that holds everything together.
The Chinese philosopher Confucius was the next to emphasize the need for morality to
permeate all aspects of life, although he also branched out to discuss rules for eating and
speaking.
In the 17th century, King Louis XIV of France transformed these maxims into a means to
broadcast his supremacy. Amid the ostentatious palace of Versailles, this French monarch
encouraged the nobility to adopt highly-technical manners that would elevate them above
the masses.
The Principles of Etiquette
Respect
Respect can be a feeling, and it can be demonstrated in our actions and words. To us,
respecting other people means recognizing and acknowledging their worth and value as
human beings, regardless of their background, race, or creed. It's demonstrated in all our
day-to-day relations—refraining from demeaning others for their ideas and opinions,
refusing to laugh at racist or sexist jokes, putting prejudices aside, and staying open-minded.
We show respect not just by what we refrain from doing but also by intentional acts, such as
being on time, dressing appropriately, or giving our full attention to the person or people
we're with.
Self-respect is just as important as respect for others. A person who respects herself isn't
boastful or pushy but is secure in a way that inspires confidence in others. She values herself
regardless of her physical attributes or individual talents, understanding that integrity and
character are what really matter.
Consideration
Consideration is about having empathy for another person, and the key to consideration is
thoughtful behavior. Being thoughtful means thinking about what you can do for those
around you and how your actions will affect them. Consideration leads us to help a friend or
stranger in need, to bestow a token of appreciation, or to offer praise.
Honesty
Honesty is both about telling the truth and avoiding even white lies, and about acting
sincerely and with integrity. We should add that we like benevolent rather than brutal
honesty. It's the basis of tact: Using empathy to find the positive truth and telling or acting
on it, without causing embarrassment or pain to someone else. Honesty is also about being
authentic and genuine with others. No one likes insincere, "lip-service" politeness—it can be
as bad as outright rudeness.
All Together
Put these three principles together and act on them in your daily life and you will be the
soul of graciousness and have excellent relationships as a result. These three principles will
see you through thick and thin, guiding you through differences of opinion or interactions
with difficult people who cross your path and helping you to build even better relationships
with those close to you.