Are You Assertive Enough?
6 July 2010
In order to get on in life it is sometimes important to be assertive and stand up for yourself. This is particularly true of the workplace. You will be faced with demands and requests that are sometimes unreasonable on a daily basis and it is important that you look out for your own wellbeing in order to avoid work-related stress or depression.
The problem with assertiveness is that it can sometimes be perceived as aggression. Therefore you need to be very aware of how you use your assertiveness especially in the workplace. Initially, being assertive can be daunting for some people. The important thing to remember is that although it may be difficult now, but if you don’t face up to the problem now you are sure to face more problems later on.
Here are some tips on how to be assertive in the workplace:
1) Firstly it is important to be clear about where you stand on the situation you are faced with. You must remain calm and explain your point clearly and in a succinct manner. Avoid long explanations as this can cloud you original point and can make you go off topic.
2) Next you need to address your body language. You will be surprised how much we pick up on from body language alone. You need to look at the person directly whilst sitting or standing upright; this will give the person the impression that you are serious about asserting yourself.
3) Keep your tone of voice calm and slow.
4) You need to remain polite but firm. Try not to give the impression of anger even if you are as your assertive nature may be confused with aggression.
5) Finally relax. It is perfectly normal to be nervous but try to keep it contained.
Once you have asserted yourself you will definitely be pleased with the benefits and once you have done it once you will find it easier to do it again and again. The benefits of being assertive at work include:
- Making you more effective and productive within your job role
- Increasing your confidence and self-esteem
- Reducing stress
- Making you feel more in control of your life.
Don’t let yourself be taken advantage of in the workplace or in any other areas of your life. Starting practicing your assertive side and you will soon reap the benefits!
If you need training on Assertiveness please call us on 0845 4599710 or email info@pvhr.com where we will be happy to help.
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Article written by Alyson Pellowe: Managing HR Consultant People Vision HR |
