The transformative benefits of workplace assertiveness

The transformative benefits of workplace assertiveness

Mind Tools
Empowerment Series: Stand up and assert yourself

The Mind Tools Newsletter: Empowerment Series

The Mind Tools Newsletter: Empowerment Series

Stand up and assert yourself

Stand up and assert yourself

As a manager, you’re experienced. But there may be times when you feel like your insights, views and opinions are being undermined. Situations when you can’t find the confidence to speak up. Or you become defensive if you feel cornered. No matter the scenario, it’s important for you to be able to handle it professionally.

 

Assertiveness is a key skill that can help you to better manage yourself, people, and situations. When you’re assertive, you communicate your ideas with conviction. You’re able to listen to and respect the thoughts of others. This in turn leads to open discussion, closer collaboration and better problem-solving.

 

But there’s a fine line between being assertive and appearing aggressive. You don’t want to overstep the mark where the need to be direct is required. When you’re being upfront about your wants and needs, it's important to consider the same of the person opposite.

 

Explore the strategies that will help you to take a step forward and learn to speak your mind.

As a manager, you’re experienced. But there may be times when you feel like your insights, views and opinions are being undermined. Situations when you can’t find the confidence to speak up. Or you become defensive if you feel cornered. No matter the scenario, it’s important for you to be able to handle it professionally.


Assertiveness is a key skill that can help you to better manage yourself, people, and situations. When you’re assertive, you communicate your ideas with conviction. You’re able to listen to and respect the thoughts of others. This in turn leads to open discussion, closer collaboration and better problem-solving.


But there’s a fine line between being assertive and appearing aggressive. You don’t want to overstep the mark where the need to be direct is required. When you’re being upfront about your wants and needs, it's important to consider the same of the person opposite.


Explore the strategies that will help you to take a step forward and learn to speak your mind.

Assert yourself

Colleagues at a desk having a serious discussion

Don't overstep the mark

Don't overstep the mark

Being aggressive might get you what you want but it won't help your reputation or gain the respect of those you work with – ultimately, it may even damage your career.


Discover our top tips for helping you to be assertive without being aggressive.

Being aggressive might get you what you want but it won't help your reputation or gain the respect of those you work with – it may even damage your career.


Discover our top tips for helping you to be assertive without being aggressive.

Avoid aggression

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Each and every Mind Tools resource is thoroughly researched and expertly written. With articles, quizzes, videos, Expert Interviews, Skillbooks, and more, our content is designed to help you to unlock your full potential and enjoy the career you deserve.


With a selection of plans to suit all budgets and learning needs – get full access now.

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About the Empowerment Series

About the Empowerment Series

In this new email series, we bring you valuable insights and practical tips so that you can take control of your own development and put yourself on the career path you want. We'll look at themes ranging from building resilience to exploring self-directed learning, and help you to build the skills you need to succeed in today's workplace.

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