Protocol, Who Needs It? | Dwight MacAulay | TEDxWinnipeg

Summary

In this engaging talk, the speaker reflects on the importance and evolution of protocol in both personal and professional spheres. From humorous anecdotes about cultural missteps to insights on how protocol adapts to modern times, the speaker explores the role of respect and cultural understanding. Emphasizing the fluid nature of protocol in our multicultural society, the speaker also highlights its importance in diplomacy, business, and societal interactions. Ultimately, protocol is portrayed as a practice that fosters connection, respect, and smooth interactions, with a call for everyone to embrace its significance in today’s changing world.

Takeaways

• 😀 Protocol is essential in various aspects of life, from government to business and personal interactions.
• 😀 Protocol helps make events flow smoothly and ensures people feel at ease during formal interactions.
• 😀 Respect is a core component of protocol, particularly when dealing with people, culture, and traditions.
• 😀 The idea of protocol has evolved over time; it's no longer just about etiquette but adapting to changing times and cultures.
• 😀 Protocol plays a vital role in international relations, ensuring smooth interactions between diplomats, businesses, and governments.
• 😀 Small mistakes in protocol can lead to awkward or embarrassing situations, as seen with the mishandling of the national anthem and the flag incident.
• 😀 Multiculturalism in Canada has changed the approach to protocol, with growing recognition of indigenous peoples and diverse cultures.
• 😀 Global travel requires awareness of different protocols and customs to avoid cultural misunderstandings, such as how to greet others.
• 😀 Even established protocols, like the Geneva Convention, evolve over time to meet new challenges and societal changes.
• 😀 Protocol is not rigid; it adapts to societal shifts, such as changes in how the monarchy is perceived or how gestures of respect are shown.

Q & A

What is the significance of protocol in today's society?

Protocol today is vital as it helps maintain respect and structure in various contexts. It is not just about following rules; it's about understanding the appropriate way to behave, whether at an event, in a diplomatic meeting, or within a multicultural society.

How has the perception of protocol changed over time?

Protocol used to be seen as merely knowing which utensil to use or how to drink tea. However, it has evolved into a broader concept, focusing on respect and common sense, which applies to various aspects of modern life, from government meetings to casual social interactions.

What example does the speaker use to show the importance of protocol in diplomacy?

The speaker discusses how governments and leaders rely on protocol when organizing trade missions or diplomatic visits. Proper protocol ensures that meetings are smooth and productive, as it helps with introductions, gift exchanges, language considerations, seating arrangements, and meeting procedures.

What is the role of protocol in Canada’s multicultural society?

In Canada’s multicultural society, protocol reflects the changing norms, such as recognizing and respecting indigenous peoples and cultural differences. The speaker mentions how people now acknowledge the land of First Nations and use multilingual phrases like 'miigwech' during speeches.

Why does the speaker emphasize the need for protocol to adapt with the times?

The speaker stresses that protocol must adapt to societal changes to stay relevant. This includes adjusting how marginalized groups are treated or reevaluating historical practices, like the Church’s view on certain societal issues. Protocol must evolve to meet modern expectations.

What lesson is conveyed through the example of the Queen’s flag at Buckingham Palace?

The example of the Queen’s flag at Buckingham Palace highlights how protocol can cause misunderstandings. When the flag wasn’t lowered after Princess Diana’s death, it led to public backlash, but over time, protocol evolved, with the Queen lowering the flag in subsequent instances like 9/11 and the deaths of prominent figures.

How does protocol impact the success of official visits, such as those by diplomats?

Protocol plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of official visits by providing structure to interactions. It helps avoid misunderstandings by guiding things like the order of introductions, seating arrangements, appropriate gifts, and how meetings should start and end.

What does the speaker suggest about the Hudson’s Bay Company’s approach to protocol?

The speaker highlights how the Hudson’s Bay Company adapted its protocol in 1984, when it honored an old tradition of gifting two black beaver pelts to the Queen during her visit. Understanding that times had changed, they instead donated two black beavers to a zoo, reflecting the evolving nature of protocol.

What does the phrase 'Keep calm and carry on' signify in relation to protocol?

'Keep calm and carry on' is a motto that can be applied to protocol practice. It suggests staying composed and flexible when things don’t go exactly as planned, which is common in events involving protocol, where things often don’t unfold perfectly.

Why is protocol necessary in international business and diplomatic relations?

In international business and diplomatic relations, protocol helps avoid cultural misunderstandings and ensures respect for local customs. It ensures that important details like greetings, seating arrangements, and business card exchanges are handled properly, fostering smooth relations between countries.