What do you do if your communication style lacks confidence and assertiveness?

1 Assess Honestly

Begin by conducting an honest self-assessment of your current communication style. Reflect on recent interactions where you felt your message didn't come across as confidently or assertively as you would have liked. Consider the language you used, your body language, and your tone of voice. Were there instances where you hesitated or second-guessed yourself? Identifying these patterns is the first step toward change. Remember, self-awareness is a powerful tool, and recognizing your areas for improvement is a sign of strength, not weakness.

2 Set Goals

After pinpointing the areas that need improvement, set specific, achievable goals for your communication style. These goals might include speaking up in meetings at least once, using more assertive language, or maintaining eye contact while speaking. Ensure your goals are measurable so that you can track your progress. By setting clear targets, you're creating a roadmap for your development and giving yourself something tangible to work towards.

3 Practice Regularly

Like any skill, confident and assertive communication improves with regular practice. Start small by practicing your assertive language in low-stakes situations, such as ordering food or asking for directions. Gradually work your way up to more challenging scenarios. Role-playing exercises with a trusted friend or mentor can be particularly beneficial. The key is to make practice a consistent part of your routine so that confident communication becomes second nature.

4 Seek Feedback

Feedback is crucial for growth, so don't shy away from asking for it. Reach out to colleagues or a mentor who can provide constructive criticism on your communication style. Be specific about what you're working on and ask for honest opinions on how you're doing. This feedback can help you adjust your approach and ensure that you're on the right track. Remember, the goal is not to become someone else but to become the best communicator you can be.

5 Embrace Mindset

Your mindset plays a pivotal role in how you communicate. Cultivating a positive, growth-oriented mindset can dramatically improve your confidence and assertiveness. Believe in your value and the importance of your contributions. When you approach conversations with the belief that your perspective is worth sharing, it will naturally reflect in your communication style. Embrace challenges as opportunities to strengthen your skills and remember that every interaction is a chance to improve.

6 Learn Continuously

Lastly, view the development of your communication style as an ongoing journey. There's always room for improvement, so seek out resources like books, workshops, or online courses that focus on building confidence and assertiveness in communication. Stay curious and open to new techniques or strategies that can enhance your skill set. By committing to continuous learning, you ensure that your communication style evolves and remains effective no matter what challenges you face in the business world.

7 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?