Diplomats represent the British government in foreign countries. These posts require a lot of foreign travel and can provide varied opportunities with each posting.
Your time will probably be split between London and foreign countries. In London you will act as a civil servant working for the government. When posted to a foreign country you are responsible for representing the UK. Careers as a diplomat involve quite a lot of moving around, as you essentially change jobs every couple of years as you are given a new post.
Typical work activities
- You may work abroad for up to two-thirds of your career
- Maintaining good relations with the country you are based in
- Communicating with your host country on important issues such as trade alliances, treaties and foreign aid
- Representing the British government on international issues
- Promoting British policy to foreign governments
- Developing an understanding of local business practices
- Negotiating international agreements
- Planning projects and anticipating problems
- Organising high level government visits and hosting social functions
- Assisting British citizens who get into trouble abroad
- Managing staff
- Giving advice to ministers
Diplomats may move post every two to three years, so the job comes with a high level of disruption.
Interested in a career as a diplomat?
More information
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