What do you do if your assertiveness and confidence aren't influencing decision-making in problem-solving?

1 Reflect First

Before jumping to conclusions about your influence on decision-making, take a moment to reflect on your approach. Are you truly being assertive or veering into aggressiveness? Assertiveness means expressing your thoughts and feelings confidently and respectfully, while aggressiveness can be off-putting. Consider whether your timing is right or if your message is clear. Sometimes, a small tweak in how or when you present your ideas can make a big difference in how they're received.

2 Seek Feedback

If after self-reflection, you still find your assertiveness isn't swaying decisions, seek feedback from colleagues or mentors. They can provide valuable insights into how others perceive your communication style. Feedback can highlight areas for improvement or reveal that external factors, unrelated to your confidence levels, might be influencing decision-making. Use this information constructively to adjust your approach accordingly.

3 Adapt Style

Adapting your communication style could be key. Different situations and people call for different approaches. For example, some team members may respond better to data-driven arguments, while others prefer storytelling or emotional appeals. Pay attention to the decision-makers' preferences and tailor your communication to resonate with them. Remember, being flexible in your approach doesn't mean sacrificing assertiveness; it's about being effective.

4 Build Alliances

Building alliances within your team or organization can amplify your influence. Find colleagues who share your perspective and collaborate with them to present a united front. This collective approach can lend more weight to your ideas and demonstrate broader support for your solutions. Moreover, allies can offer different viewpoints and ways to articulate arguments that might be more persuasive in decision-making.

5 Enhance Skills

Consider enhancing your problem-solving skills to strengthen your influence. This might involve learning new techniques for brainstorming, negotiation, or conflict resolution. The more proficient you are in problem-solving methodologies, the more likely your input will be valued in decision-making processes. Continuous learning and skill development show commitment to your role and can boost both your confidence and credibility.

6 Stay Resilient

Lastly, resilience is crucial. Not every suggestion you make will be adopted, and that's okay. What's important is to learn from these experiences and not let them diminish your assertiveness or confidence. Stay committed to contributing constructively to problem-solving and recognize that perseverance often pays off. Your resilience will not only help you maintain a positive outlook but also ensure you're ready for the next opportunity to influence decisions.