Communicating assertively means clearly and calmly expressing what you want without either being too passive or too aggressive. Learning to communicate assertively doesn’t guarantee you will have your needs met but it makes it more likely and can improve your relationship with other people.
- Speak in Headlines
When sharing an idea or expressing your thoughts, try to think of the headline you want to communicate in advance and stick to that when relaying your message. This little trick will help you to share your thoughts concisely and clearly, without rambling. It also helps you to make your point with more assertion. Another important point to remember is to be careful not to end a statement with a questioning tone, as that comes across as you having doubt in what you’re communicating.
- Body Language Speaks Volumes
Maintain good posture and keep eye contact with whomever you’re communicating with as it exudes an overall feeling of confidence both in what you are saying and the person that you are.
- Be Present
Being there doesn’t always mean you’re present and in the moment. Demonstrate that you’re completely in the moment by fearlessly listening, acknowledging cues in a conversation, and asking for clarification when you need it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It shows you’re unafraid to both acknowledge you didn’t understand something and get the insight you need.
- Express Mea Culpa
There’s nothing that exudes more confidence than being honest in your mistakes or mishaps. Acknowledging when you’ve made a mistake demonstrates your self-assurance and your willingness to learn from it.
- Be Proactive
Demonstrating you can think ahead confirms to everyone around you that you’ve got the present work under control and are a capable employee.
- Welcome the Uncomfortable
Don’t skirt around issues –- address difficult conversations head on and don’t misdirect blame. Being real and down-to-earth in how you confront an issue will lead to a lot of supporters and is a true demonstration of self-assurance.
