Communication is a vital part of the professional world, and it is essential to do it effectively in order to convey your message and understand that of others; however, effective communication is not always easy, especially when it comes to being assertive without being pushy.
The assertiveness It is the ability to express your needs, opinions and feelings in a respectful way without offending others. On the other hand, aggression involves expressing all this in a hostile and disrespectful way, which can hurt or offend others.
So how can you have assertive communication? Follow these recommendations:
1. Use “I” instead of “you”
“I” statements focus on how you feel or what you need, while “you” statements focus on the other person’s behavior, which can become more aggressive. For example, instead of saying, “You don’t listen to me in meetings,” you can say, “I feel like you don’t listen when you interrupt me in the meeting.” In this way, you can express yourself from your feelings without blaming the other person.
2. Be clear and specific
When expressing your needs, opinions, or feelings, it is important to communicate them clearly, concisely, and confidently. Avoid rambling, as this can confuse the other person and lead to misunderstandings.
3. Practice active listening
When someone is talking to you, listen carefully to what they are saying without interrupting or judging. Once they’ve finished speaking, paraphrase what they said to make sure you understand their message correctly. Active listening shows that you respect the other person’s opinion and will improve your communication.
4. Use nonverbal communication to your advantage
Nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, posture, and body language, can play an important role in how your message is received.
When you communicate assertively, use positive body language, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding your head, and looking at the person you’re talking to. Avoid negative body language, such as crossing your arms or legs, which can come across as defensive or mean.
5. Practice empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, and it is essential in assertive communication. When you acknowledge the other’s perspective (even if you disagree), you will build stronger relationships.
Remember that assertive communication requires practice, but with time and effort, you can master this essential skill in the professional world and communicate effectively, positively impacting maintaining a good positioning of your branding staff.