Olivera Tatalovic Finds her Superhero Moment
In honor of last month’s National Protocol Officer Week, PSOW sponsored a “Superhero Moment” contest where entrants were asked how they used their protocol expertise in a particular job or setting. After reviewing entries from around the world, we have selected Olivera Tatalovic as our 2015 winner, receiving a complimentary tuition to a scheduled 2015 Protocol Officer Training program.
Born and raised in Serbia, Olivera moved to Dubai in 2000. Over the last 15 years, she has worked for blue chip multinational companies in several different industries. Olivera says that despite the difference in the companies where she has worked, they all share a commonality in that their respective teams are comprised of international talent from many different countries
“Dubai is home to more than 200 different nationalities and everyone cohabits in harmony,” said Olivera. “Workplace relationships reflect that harmony because they are based on respect and openness to increasing personal cultural intelligence which directly enhances the level of performance and quality of life.”
Olivera shares more about her professional life in Dubai and the experience of working in a multicultural workplace.
What is your interest in protocol training as it relates to your current job and/or professional aspirations? My interest in protocol relates to the creation of new opportunities wherever I am living and working—for blue chip companies or as an entrepreneur. To succeed and ensure sustainability we need to distinguish ourselves in different ways. Business etiquette, protocol, as well as understanding, acceptance and adherence to intercultural norms are ultimate and time-tested techniques to do so. This is one of the ways to outclass our competitors.
Why is cultural respect so important in today's global marketplace? We need to be open and adaptable to cultural diversity as business is moving in this direction. The knowledge of protocol and etiquette therefore is golden as it gives a person a winning edge.
What do you hope to gain by taking protocol training? I hope to meet new people from different parts of the world and to expand horizons through those interactions—opening up new opportunities, to apply and spread knowledge at my work and in my immediate environment, and to promote the importance of protocol, civility and cultural intelligence. It is about making an impact where you live and leaving the legacy for the next generation.
Can you tell us more about Dubai Fashion Week and the role you play in the event?
I had been working for a French multinational cosmetics and luxury brand, the main sponsor of the event (Dubai Fashion Week), and was completely new in the company, the luxury industry and in orchestrating this type of event. Having worked in multinational and multicultural environments, I was aware of different working styles based on cultural backgrounds, norms and values. I was aware of mine too. This knowledge has facilitated communication with different stakeholders in a way that ensured the success of the show and brought additional value for the business.
How did you hear of the Superhero Moment contest and what prompted you to enter?
Following PSOW activities through Facebook and LinkedIn for a couple of years, I was aware of the National Protocol Week tradition and decided to give myself a chance to join the elite school.
How did you hear about PSOW?
During Dubai Fashion Week a colleague, affiliated with the PSOW, introduced me to the programs of the school and the possibilities that kind of knowledge offers. It took me five years to reach this moment and it was worth the wait. Echoing Ms. Pamela Eyring: “Etiquette and protocol would become a lifestyle worthy of your highest aim.”