No matter where you work – or what sector you are employed in – there are some fairly similar themes that tend to persist. For example, you’re highly likely to come across the boss who won’t take “no” for an answer or the team members who like to lead from the front (without listening to anyone behind). A work environment can be a difficult place to thrive with all these characters competing. If you’re not equipped to be assertive then you could find yourself getting frustrated, depressed and suffering a drop in self-esteem.
Are you an assertive personality?
In terms of behaviour types if you are an assertive type then you will often find it easier to thrive. Assertiveness is not about shouting the loudest but involves clear and honest communication that allows others to understand who you are and what you want. You’re able to stand up for yourself without straying into damaging behaviours that hurt other’s feelings. And you’re able to generate respect by the way you deal with situations and other people. If you’re not assertive you may find that you fit into one of the other personality types, such as:
Passive-aggressive. You probably don’t vocalise your feelings but are more likely to try to express them through actions, such as being late for work or not delivering something on time.
Passive. You’re more likely to let something go, not because it doesn’t bother you but because you just don’t want to deal with it.
Aggressive. An aggressive type always shouts the loudest but tends not to be viewed as a constructive presence in the working environment. Aggressive personality types often come across as rude, hostile, bullying and lacking in the ability to work with anyone else.
Of course, many workplaces are not set up to foster the best qualities, particularly those where a macho, overly competitive or individualistic culture has been established. However, learning to be more assertive can help you to cope with even the most difficult of working environments.
Why being more assertive could help you at work
• You’ll be more confident. This will be reflected in everything, from the way you shake hands to being able to ask for a promotion when you feel the time is right.
• You’ll have more of a handle on your emotions. The only way to “process” emotions is to feel them – blocking or ignoring them can lead to an out of control explosion further down the line. If you’re more assertive then you’ll have the confidence to feel your emotions and the awareness to identify what you’re really feeling. This will make finding solutions to difficulties or conflicts much simpler and less loaded with volatility.
• Boundary setting becomes easier. When you become more assertive you know where your boundaries lie and you’re much more able to calmly, quietly and effectively ensure that they are not crossed.
• You’ll have the respect of your colleagues. Honesty and the ability to communicate, standing your ground but being fair and open – these are some of the qualities most respected by others.
• In the process of becoming more assertive you’ll learn more about yourself and those around you. This helps to build awareness to make better judgments, such as which battles to pick and which to leave.
Assertiveness training is something that we can help you with – to find out more about our
Masterclass in Being More Assertive and Confident in the Workplace Half Day Course, and what it could do for you, please get in touch.