How can you be more assertive and confident in communication?

Tips to master assertive speeches and conversation: 1) Knowledge and understanding of what you’re communicating - you can’t convince people or be assertive when you have questions about the product and/or issue yourself. With knowledge comes confidence. So, studying, reading books, and updating your knowledge will help you in your goal. 2) Go straight to the point - people's attention tends to divert after 8 seconds, so prolixity will negatively impact the message you want to convey. 3) Bullet points - it helps to keep your conciseness in check, and if you’re in a presentation, it keeps a leaner visual to avoid distractions, and for each bullet point, you can regain the 8 seconds attention of the audience.

From a personal perspective, recognizing your rights and responsibilities in communication is like equipping yourself with a toolkit for navigating interactions confidently. Embracing the right to express your thoughts and feelings allows you to stand up for yourself without unnecessary guilt, while understanding your responsibility to respect others fosters a harmonious exchange of ideas. It's liberating to acknowledge that saying no, seeking assistance, or altering your viewpoint are valid actions, all while upholding the principle of treating everyone with respect. Balancing these rights and responsibilities helps create a foundation for open, authentic, and mutually beneficial conversations.

The funny thing about communication is that it can be applied to individuals of all ages. Communicating with a child is no different than communicating with an adult. It's important to understand what the message is that you want them to understand. For that to work, you must be very clear about what you want as a result of what you are communicating. Did someone let you down? Communicating to them with "I am disappointed in your decision" leaves room to talk, but blame causes people to be defensive. Telling someone "you always make bad choices" will not create a productive conversation. It will create an opportunity for hurt individuals though.

Knowing what assertiveness is one thing, but truly mastering it? That’s a whole new level! In today's job market, nailing assertive communication isn't just important – it's instrumental to your success. So, be your own advocate and don't be afraid of creating opportunities if none exist. If you've been assigned a lot of extra work and it's beginning to pile up, talk to your manager. Don't assume they've got the whole picture. Making assumptions can be your downfall. Want a raise? Speak your mind and back it up with your accomplishments, but be strategic - timing is key, so do your research first. Don't be afraid of taking charge of your career. You're the author of your climb, so see how far you can go! :)

Recording yourself and observing your gestures, tone of voice, and body language will also help because you can see and fix your mistakes. It also helps with rehearsals and checking how long your speech is and if it’s within the time limit given.

Being assertive and confident in communication is essential to express your ideas and opinions effectively. Here are some tips that can help you be more assertive and confident in communication: 1. Use "I" statements: Instead of blaming or accusing others, use "I" statements to express your thoughts and feelings. This will help you take ownership of your communication and avoid blaming others. 2. Speak clearly and confidently: Use a clear and confident tone when speaking. Avoid mumbling or speaking too softly, as this can undermine your message and make you appear less confident. 4. Be direct and concise. 5. Use positive body language.