Assertiveness

Kommunikations-experte KEN TAYLOR wirft einen Blick auf die Fähigkeiten und Sprachkenntnisse, die in der modernen Arbeitswelt unabdingbar sind.

Being assertive means approaching life positively and confidently. It means communicating clearly and openly without offending others. Being assertive also means having positive self-esteem. And it means having the right to take decisions and make mistakes.

Have a look at the conversation below and highlight the words and phrases you might find useful when discussing this topic.

Jason is discussing some feedback from his boss with Sara, an old friend and colleague.

Jason: Barbara told me that I should be more assertive in meetings. I’m not sure what she means.

Sara: Well, you can be rather passive at times. I think she’d like you to be more proactive.

Jason: But what if I don’t have anything to say?

Sara: Then be a more attentive listener. Lean forward, nod and

follow the discussion with your eyes.

Jason: She also said that I sound a bit bored when I speak.

Sara: You do sometimes seem a bit hesitant. Perhaps you should put a bit more energy into your voice. Stress the key words in the sentence.

Jason: I think I’m a bit of an introvert. Showing emotions doesn’t suit me.

Sara: I understand that, but being more assertive just takes a little practice. It increases your self-esteem, too.

Jason: Maybe that’s part of the problem. I’m not sure how competent I come across at meetings.

Sara: I think you need a positive mantra.

Jason: A what?

Sara: A mantra. Something positive you can say to yourself under your breath. Like “Yes I can” – similar to Barack Obama’s “Yes we can”. Say it regularly and often. It creates positive vibes.

Jason: Yes I can! I’ll give it a go.