Assertive Communication

Assertive communication is the ability to express positive and negative

ideas and feelings in an open, honest and direct way.
It may be defined as “neither aggressive nor submissive expression of
ideas and views”.
 It is intermediate between Aggressive and Submissive
Communication.
 It is used mostly at managerial level.
 It is a core skill of presenter.
 It helps in achieving our goals quickly.
 In this communication there is no compromise on self-esteem, bias
as well as subordinates’ rights.
(Below diagram comprehends the topic better)

Aggressive Communication
Aggressive communication is very rude and strict behaviour of
managerial staff.
In aggressive communication, there is negligence of one’s self-esteem
and subordinates’ rights.
 WHILE
Submissive Communication
It is the more humble attitude of managerial staff which can also be
counted as negative in communication.
It is the only use of “Yes/No” by the boss, that’s why here also self-
esteem and rights of workers are neglected.
 Now we are going to discuss Assertive communication
deliberately.

Characteristics of Assertive Communication

The characteristics of assertive communication are as under,

 Eye contact: demonstrates interest, shows sincerity.
 Body posture: congruent body language will improve the
significance of the message.
 Gestures: appropriate gestures help to add emphasis.
 Voice: a level, modulated tone is more convincing and
acceptable, and is not intimidating.
 Timing: use your judgement to maximise receptivity and
impact.
 Content: how, where and when you choose to comment is
probably more important than WHAT you say.

The Advantages of Assertiveness communication

Some advantages are listed below.
 Assertiveness helps us feel good about ourselves and
others.
 It leads to the development of mutual respect with others.
 It increases our self-esteem.
 It helps us achieve our goals.
 It minimises hurting and alienating other people.
 Assertiveness reduces anxiety.
  Assertiveness protects us from being taken advantage of by
others.
 It enables us to make decisions and free choices in life.
 It enables us to express, both verbally and non-verbally, a
wide range of feelings and thoughts, both positive and
negative.

Things To Do For Being Assertive

1) Aim for open and honest communication.
2) Stay calm, breathe normally.
3) Agree to disagree means having a different point of view doesn’t
mean you are right and the other person is wrong.
4) Be patient. Remember that you will sometimes do better at it than
at other times, but you can always learn from your mistakes.
5) Listen actively. Try to understand the other person’s point of view
and don’t interrupt when they are explaining it to you.

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