You’re struggling to build assertiveness in accounting decision-making. What can you do to take control?

1 Identify your value

The first step to being assertive is to recognize your value as an accountant. You have the knowledge, skills, and experience to provide accurate, reliable, and relevant information and advice to your clients, managers, or stakeholders. You also have the ethical responsibility to uphold the standards and principles of your profession. Remind yourself of these facts whenever you face a decision-making situation, and use them to support your position and recommendations.

2 Communicate clearly

The second step to being assertive is to communicate your decisions clearly and confidently. This means using assertive language, such as "I think", "I recommend", or "I believe", rather than passive or aggressive language, such as "I guess", "You should", or "You must". It also means explaining the rationale, evidence, and assumptions behind your decisions, and highlighting the benefits and risks involved. By doing so, you can demonstrate your competence, credibility, and authority, and persuade others to accept your decisions.

3 Listen actively

The third step to being assertive is to listen actively to the feedback, opinions, and concerns of others. This does not mean agreeing with everything they say, or giving up your own point of view. It means showing respect, empathy, and curiosity, and trying to understand their perspective and needs. By listening actively, you can acknowledge their input, address their objections, and find common ground or solutions. You can also learn from their insights, and improve your own decision-making skills.

4 Manage conflict

The fourth step to being assertive is to manage conflict constructively. Conflict is inevitable in accounting decision-making, as different parties may have different interests, expectations, or preferences. However, conflict does not have to be negative or destructive. It can be an opportunity to exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and create value. To manage conflict constructively, you need to stay calm, respectful, and professional, and avoid personal attacks, blame, or defensiveness. You also need to focus on the facts, the goals, and the solutions, rather than the emotions, the personalities, or the problems.

5 Assert your rights

The fifth step to being assertive is to assert your rights as an accountant. You have the right to make decisions based on your professional judgment, to express your opinions and concerns, to ask for clarification or support, and to say no or disagree when necessary. You also have the right to be treated fairly, respectfully, and courteously by others. However, these rights come with responsibilities. You also have the responsibility to respect the rights of others, to follow the rules and regulations of your profession, to accept the consequences of your decisions, and to admit and correct your mistakes.

6 Practice regularly

The final step to being assertive is to practice regularly. Assertiveness is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. You can practice by setting realistic and specific goals, such as making a decision within a certain time frame, expressing your opinion in a meeting, or asking for feedback on your work. You can also practice by seeking opportunities to make decisions, such as volunteering for a project, taking on a new task, or offering your expertise. By practicing regularly, you can build your confidence, competence, and reputation as an assertive and effective accountant.