What is Corporate Diplomacy? And, why does it matter?

This study aims to analyze the concept of corporate diplomacy, that is, the behavior of organizational actors aimed at implementing favorable conditions for carrying out corporate activities. By following a cognitive-linguistic approach, the analysis outlines the meaning of corporate diplomacy along various dimensions, and in relation to other “bordering” concepts, such as diplomacy, economic or commercial diplomacy, negotiation, and public relations. The result of the analysis supports a better definition of corporate diplomacy, and offers interesting cues for acknowledging why this activity is an important function that firms should address, especially when they engage in intense relationships with governments, other businesses, and non-profits.