Bulawayo City Council Councilors underwent Training in Advanced Diplomacy, Protocol and Etiquette conducted by the Institute from 23 – 25 August 2017 in Matopos, Bulawayo. The purpose of the training was to edify Councillors since they are exposed to Government and International business to internationally standardised protocol and etiquette practices.

Participants learnt essential skills for hosting international delegations as well as important guidelines for representing the Council when travelling internationally. This course was specifically designed to equip Senior Staff and Councilors with the skills and confidence to express appropriate behaviours and decorum regarding State, Business and International Protocol and related etiquette.

Areas covered included diplomacy, etiquette, protocol on official occasions, national symbols, national crowns and honours, the official table of precedence, flag etiquette, official forms of address, formal invitation letter and styles. Under business etiquette, participants were exposed to training in effective business entertaining; toasting; body language at the table; host, hostess and guest duties; eating etiquette; eating of different food types; styles of eating; types of meals and wines; and the dos and don’ts of dining.

Understanding the social dress code was also one of the features of the Workshop. Dressing for State and official functions, appropriate dress for business and business-related occasions, colour coordination, accessorising, fabric textures, and dressing for the international business person are among the topics that were covered.

The Workshop also endowed the Bulawayo City Senior Staff and Councilors with effective presentation and speaking skills, the understanding for cultural diversity and communication across cultures; conference and meeting etiquettes; hosting and chairing techniques; strategic thinking and analysis and negotiation skills. These soft skills will enhance the effective functioning of the Council in service delivery.