Protocol Officer Training | 5 November - 10 November 2025

Course Description

This five-day comprehensive in-person classroom training provides expert instruction, guided exercises and coaching for a thorough foundation in the fundamentals of operational protocol. Participants gain a broad understanding of functional business, government, and international protocol. Strong personal leadership skill development balances this high-quality curriculum, elevating confidence, preparedness, and professionalism.

Topics Included

• Protocol History, Precedence and Positioning
• Titles and Forms of Address
• VIP Management
• Seating
• Ceremonies
• International: The Impact of Culture on Protocol
• Official Gifts
• Flags and Logos
• Logistics and Event Management
• Personal Diplomacy and Dining Skills
• Military Protocol
• Leadership and Legendary Service
• Professional Development

Learning Objectives

• Identify the uses of precedence as a fundamental protocol tool.
• Review the key elements between social and business seating.
• Properly use titles and forms of address.
• Apply flag order of precedence when displaying multiple flags.
• Define the master protocol process and apply it to meetings and events.
• Identify the elements of cross-cultural communication.
• Master appropriate gift-giving practices.
• Apply the elements of the guest experience cycle.
• Define legendary service and its methods of delivery.
• Apply rank vs. service precedence within the military.
• Understand and feel confident using and applying dining etiquette principles.

Materials Provided

• Your official framed certificate, presented at graduation (measuring approximately 18 x 12 inches | 45.72 x 30.48 cm).
• Honor & Respect The Official Guide to Names, Titles, and Forms of Address (3rd Edition, 2023) by Robert Hickey, University of Chicago Press, 576 pp., ISBN: 9780226830667.
• The Little Book of Etiquette by Dorothea Johnson (1997), Running Press.
• The Protocol School of Washington Protocol Officer Training Manual (2025), the Protocol School of Washington, South Carolina.
• Global Road Warrior Digital Subscription

Measure of Performance

A 90% attendance rate is required of all participants. This course is strictly Pass/Fail. The Training Manager, in conjunction with the course facilitators, will observe and evaluate your participation to determine if you understand the material and if you pass or fail the course.

Course Requirements

Classes are presented in English. To ensure the best student experience, English language proficiency and basic computer skills are required.

Resource Center

• Course Syllabus >
• Training Agreement >
• Business Case PO >

Certified to operate by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia and the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training.

Hotel Information

5 - 10 November 2025: A discounted rate of $260 per night to include wi-fi is available at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner. Book by 22 October 2025 to receive this rate by calling the hotel at 703-744-3947 and identifying yourself as an attendee of The Protocol School of Washington group.

Registration confirmed once full payment is received.