Tradecraft > Political Officer's Diplomatic Principles

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1. You are THE expert. Always know more than your interlocutors about the issues for which you are responsible.

2. Every successful political officer is an issue manager.

3. Think 360 degrees. You should be a resource for both your host country contacts and your Washington colleagues.

4. Get out of the Embassy as much as possible—at least one meeting a day.

5. You can't be a successful political officer if you don't do public diplomacy.

6. Read the wireless file and press guidance.

7. Learn how to talk to the press.

8. Write often—every single day.

9. Treat visits as an opportunity.

10. Spread information widely. Use the cc- line and always include others.

11. Don't fight over paper.

12. Don't personalize policy.

13. No passive voice.

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