What do you do if your assertiveness is constantly challenged in operational planning?

As a person who is assertive and excited, I've learned that sometimes I need to preface my interaction in a team setting with an introduction and advise that I am a person that not only works better when I know the why behind the what but also genuinely enjoys troubleshooting. My questions are not to simply be contrary but to work through the thought process as a team because I love hearing others perspectives. I also have to realize that there is a time and place; and it may be time to go with the flow. It may take a few stumbles to recognize the difference.

It depends on the type of challenge to your leadership. If it’s the result of someone disrespecting you then your response will be different. Assuming it’s just someone challenging the direction or the information then it’s your responsibility to listen and respond depending. If it’s worthy of consideration then act accordingly. I don’t see it as weakness for a leader to have to change based on sound advice from a team member. It’s actually good leadership.

The key is to maintain your assertiveness while also being open to constructive feedback and a collaborative problem-solving approach. With persistence, clear communication, and a commitment to the best outcomes, you can navigate these challenges effectively. Your belief in yourself and your skills are what set you apart from others.

When my plans faced challenges, I delved into understanding the root causes. Once, while implementing a new process, there was resistance from the team. Instead of pushing harder, I took time to listen to their concerns. It turned out they were unclear about the benefits. So, I organized a session to explain the advantages. This transparency boosted their confidence, and they embraced the change enthusiastically. Understanding the reasons behind resistance helped in smoother implementations in the future.

If your assertiveness in operational planning is constantly challenged, before making any decisions, it is better to carefully examine the work environment and the behavior of your colleagues to see if the working conditions or colleagues have an effect on this issue. In this case, it can be helpful to face these challenges constructively and respectfully. Additionally, to review and improve your operational process, it is important to stay up-to-date and aware of new changes and developments in your process. Having enough information and more detailed planning will strengthen your assertiveness in this field.

Assertiveness correlates strongly with effective communication. In my experience, clear and direct communication fosters respect and clarity among team members. Once, during a project, miscommunication led to delays. Realizing this, I revamped our communication strategy. I introduced regular meetings to ensure everyone was on the same page. This simple change improved collaboration and minimized misunderstandings. It's not just about speaking up but also about ensuring your message is understood by others.

Strong relationships are vital for effective operational planning. In my career, building solid connections with team members, stakeholders, and partners has been paramount. Once, when facing a challenging deadline, I relied on the trust I had built with my team. We worked closely together, supporting each other through the tough times. This camaraderie not only boosted morale but also enabled us to surpass expectations. Nurturing relationships fosters collaboration and ensures everyone is aligned towards common goals, essential for successful operational planning.

When my assertiveness faced challenges, I found leveraging my influence to be beneficial. Once, while implementing a new strategy, there was resistance from some team members. Instead of imposing my ideas, I tapped into my influence by involving key stakeholders. By garnering support from respected colleagues, I gained credibility and buy-in for the initiative. This collaborative approach not only addressed concerns but also strengthened relationships within the team. Leveraging influence can effectively overcome obstacles and drive positive change in challenging situations.

For the planning team, getting the whole team involved is important to have a good relationship with the leaders of the commercial, manufacturing, logistics, etc. teams and take advantage of their position to push the participation of their teams so that the operations plan is no longer an external imposition to blame, but something they feel they have a stake in.

Maintaining composure is crucial when faced with challenges to assertiveness. Once, during a high-pressure project, conflicting opinions arose among team members. Instead of reacting impulsively, I remained calm and listened attentively to all viewpoints. By staying composed, I could assess the situation objectively and find common ground. This approach fostered open dialogue and enabled us to reach a consensus smoothly. Keeping a cool head under pressure is essential for effective leadership and resolving conflicts constructively.

Once, during a project, my assertiveness was met with resistance due to unforeseen circumstances. Instead of persisting with my initial approach, I took time to reflect on what went wrong. I realized that flexibility was key, so I adjusted my strategy accordingly. By being open to change and willing to adapt, I found a solution that addressed everyone's concerns effectively. This experience taught me the importance of learning from setbacks and being flexible in challenging situations.

Understand that the current procedures and plans may serve their purpose. Start building alternatives to what is in play now and implement during exercises or on the side of real world events to test its application. If it isn’t right for the current situation be prepared when it comes time to explore options while doing after action reviews or internal audits.

When your assertiveness is consistently challenged during operational planning, it's essential to maintain clarity and confidence in your communications. Start by reaffirming your understanding of the project’s objectives and ensuring your contributions align with these goals. Actively seek feedback to understand the perspectives of others and address any concerns openly. Strengthen your stance by backing up your assertions with data and clear rationale. Establishing respectful dialogue and demonstrating consistent, effective decision-making can also help in reinforcing your assertive position and ensuring your input is valued and respected. #Leadership #Communication #OperationalExcellence

Who cares? People challenging you is a normal course of progression. The same way you challenged everyone to get to where you are they'll challenge you the same. You should welcome challenges in the workplace especially during operational planning. The optimum goal is to have the highest possible returns on your work ethic as well as your missions. When subordinates challenge you, your response should not be to one up them rather make them inclusive and make them prove their challenges for the betterment of the organization as well as operational planning benefit. Put them where you control the narrative. Always end every confrontation with something like, “you must first be a great follower before you become a great leader.”

Although communication requires multiple people, there is much more than what you say and how you say it. Yes, consider the words used, the order they are in, the pauses that imply emphasis, tone and volume, and body language. Consider also how that specific arrangement results from the other side of learning. Does your communication style match your teaching style and is it the right learning style for your audience? Consider group size and interaction levels. Also remember that a person’s first language impacts their thinking. IE:you dropped the glass vs the glass fell. One places blame the other doesn’t both show that the glass changed location. It truly may be misunderstanding.