How can you be assertive without being pushy?

1 Use positive language

One way to be assertive without being pushy is to use positive and constructive language. Avoid negative words, such as no, can't, won't, or never, that can sound harsh, defensive, or dismissive. Instead, use words that show you are open, flexible, and solution-oriented, such as yes, can, will, or how. For example, instead of saying "No, we don't have that in stock", say "Yes, we can order that for you" or "How about this similar item that we have in stock?".

2 Listen actively

Another way to be assertive without being pushy is to listen actively and attentively to your customers and colleagues. Listening shows that you respect and value their opinions, needs, and preferences. It also helps you understand their perspective, motivations, and concerns. By listening, you can tailor your communication and recommendations to suit their situation and goals. You can also avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and objections that can arise from talking too much or interrupting.

3 Be confident

A third way to be assertive without being pushy is to be confident in yourself and your product or service. Confidence means believing in your abilities, knowledge, and experience. It also means being prepared, informed, and professional. Confidence can help you communicate clearly, convincingly, and persuasively. It can also help you handle challenges, objections, and rejections with grace and poise. However, confidence does not mean arrogance, boasting, or exaggerating. That can make you seem insecure, dishonest, or desperate.

4 Be respectful

A fourth way to be assertive without being pushy is to be respectful of your customers and colleagues. Respect means treating them with courtesy, dignity, and empathy. It also means acknowledging their feelings, opinions, and choices. Respect can help you build rapport, trust, and loyalty with your customers and colleagues. It can also help you avoid offending, insulting, or alienating them. However, respect does not mean agreeing with everything they say or do. It means expressing your own views and preferences in a polite and constructive way.

5 Be assertive, not pushy

Being assertive is a valuable skill for retail sales professionals. It can help you communicate effectively, sell successfully, and achieve your goals. However, being assertive does not mean being pushy. Being pushy can have negative consequences for your reputation, relationships, and sales performance. Therefore, it is important to find the right balance between being assertive and being respectful, confident, positive, and attentive. By doing so, you can be assertive without being pushy.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?