Foreign service officers represent the United States throughout the world. They help Americans who live or travel abroad and help promote American foreign policy. Some work to support American business interests.

Foreign service officers (FSOs) work in embassies, consulates, and other diplomatic missions in countries all over the world.

FSOs do many different types of jobs. Some FSOs are responsible for protecting Americans who live and work overseas. They also help to resolve:

• Adoption issues
• Financial and medical emergencies
• Lost passport issues

When necessary, FSOs issue travel warnings and announcements regarding the country where they are working. Some FSOs manage meetings and plan VIP visits when the President, Secretary of State, or Senators visit the country.

FSOs also work with countries to develop trade agreements and foreign business opportunities by meeting people in the country, learning the laws, and promoting American businesses.

FSOs work in over 270 embassies, consulates, and missions around the world. Some countries are difficult and even dangerous to work in. Many FSOs are assigned to countries that are unfamiliar to them. Before leaving for the country, they learn about the country's politics, economics, and language.

Because FSOs interact daily with people from the country, they also receive training in local customs and holidays. For example, FSOs working in the Middle East learn the proper way to shake hands so they won't offend people when they greet them.

FSOs watch and listen for events and information that will help the government make decisions. They read local newspapers and attend social and political events. They are also expected to represent the United States and share knowledge of American history, society, values, and way of life.