Here's how you can cultivate assertiveness and confidence in the workplace.

Assertiveness is not to be misunderstood as aggression. Assertiveness is firmness coming out of conviction and confidence. You need to be assertive and confident in your work place to be effective. People often bracket you within stereotypes expecting you to be a certain way which may not be the truth. For example: Being humble does not mean I am weak. It means I am: ??Willing to see your perspective from your shoes. ??Not stuck on my own point of view. ??Willing to listen. ??Willing to put you first. ??Willing to reach an understanding. ??Willing to compromise. ??Willing to collaborate. So sometimes you may have to standup and show your real self so that there is no doubt in anyones mind.

Cultivating assertiveness and confidence in the workplace is essential for effective communication, professional growth, and personal well-being. Here are some strategies to help you develop these qualities:1) Self-Awareness, 2)Knowledge and Preparation, 3)Effective Communication, 4) Body Language, 5)Building Relationships, 6)Handling Criticism and Feedback, 7)Assertive Behavior, 8)Conflict Resolution,9)Continuous Learning and Development, 10)Self-Care, 11)Positive Mindset, 12) Role-Playing and Practice.

Knowing yourself comes after you know what role it is that you play in a company. It is very important as a fresher to know who you are as an individual to the company. Be clear on your role, then take a step ahead, and learn why you are the best for it. Recognize your strengths and weaknesses. Talk to your teammates and be a team player. Your skill-set, your willingness to learn, and your strengths and weaknesses will help you recognize yourself better.

If you're ever being brow-beaten by a manager or a superior in a meeting or in front of a client, try this: use the other people in the room as leverage. Simply ask, "Is anyone else enjoying watching 'person's name' loose his mind? I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we'd all like to get back to work."

Be clear about your role, your projects, your tasks, and your stand in the team. As a team member, there will be times when you will have to shoulder more responsibilities as compared to the regular days, but it is very essential as an individual for you to take a stand, and ensure that this does not become a regular practice. There is a clear difference between being open to helping others and letting yourself be overworked.

The words you choose in your communication have a significant impact on how assertive and confident you come across. Here are some ways to communicate that make you look assertive and confident: - Replace "I might be able to..." with "I can definitely..." Action verbs demonstrate your willingness and ability to take initiative. - Ditch "I was hoping..." and opt for "I'd like to propose..." This shows you're taking an active role in shaping the conversation. - Instead of "I believe this is important," say "I believe this is important because..." Providing a reason strengthens your argument and demonstrates clear thinking.

Be assertive in your communication and decisions. Use positive language, don't be vague. If you are unsure about a certain task, rather than hesitating or procrastinating it, be open and talk to your superior.

Cultivating a workspace that is comfortable is a key factor in promoting positive body language. I disagree with environments that create seclusion rather than inclusion. If an employee feels welcome, at ease, and part of the community a company has created they will naturally show that with their body language. Workplace culture and communities are constantly evolving and the environment employees spend lots of time in should do the same. Positive body language is the result of positive workspaces.

Be aware of your posture. Make sure you are not slouching, constantly yawning, or fidgeting during a meeting (may it be with a client, a teammate, or a superior). Be confident in yourself, and show it through your body language. Here are a few actions that will show positive body language: 1. Firm hand shake 2. Eye contact while speaking 3. Avoid slouching 4. Avoid fidgeting 5. Use gestures while speaking 6. Be aware of your facial expressions 7. Ask questions 8. Turn towards the speaker to give your undivided attention to them 9. Look at the speaker in the eye while they are speaking 10. Smile

Your personality conveys a language and sets the tone for the discussion. Use it well. Ensure to be confident and well poised with direct eye contact and be straightforward. Avoid beating about the Bush. Get to business immediately so that the message reaches clear as crystal.

Understand who your team is, and create connections with teammates who can help you grow as an individual. Ensure that you take regular feedback from them on your tasks and implement the corrections/changes they suggest. Discuss your tasks, and contribute your thoughts when it comes to their tasks/projects. A connection only works when there is communication both ways.