(Published in the Manila Standard Today under the Greenlight column, September 6, 2010) I recently attended a business meeting in Thailand where colleagues from Asia Pacific countries gathered to present and discuss business priorities. A favorite dinner staple topic among my colleagues was the hostage crisis in Manila. But more interestingly was the observation of many on the speech delivered by President Aquino to the local and international press where he smiled instead of showing grief. Having read the explanation of President Aquino, I quickly defended him. I told everyone that the president’s smile has been misunderstood – he was smiling because of the absurdity of the situation with the police using a sledge hammer and the difficulty of breaching the bus. I also told everyone that the President apologized for having offended certain people. This makes us realize the importance of understanding nonverbal communication in diplomacy and international business. According to st
This blog features a collection of my articles, essays, and research studies on business, management, and social issues and subjects published in local (Philippines) and international publications. It also includes selected speeches and talks to academic and professional audience. (The views and comments in this blog do not reflect those of my past, present, and future employers)