Effective communication is what separates a board of professionals from a Team.
It's the linchpin for fostering successful negotiations and workplace relationships that are respectful, productive, and authentic.
Mona Kirstein, Ph.D.
, a certified holistic coach and consultant, has penned an insightful article on our blog that delves deeply into the nuances of assertive communication.
Today, we are sharing a small excerpt from that article, but you can always check out the full version on our blog.
Why assertive communication matters in business
Let’s get things straight. Assertiveness is not about overpowering conversations.
It's about expressing your ideas clearly while listening to others.
This balance creates an environment conducive to creative problem-solving, teamwork, and mutual respect.
Practicing assertiveness: the essentials
- Self-awareness: Before improving, you need to know where you stand. Take note of your communication habits. Are you a people-pleaser, or do you struggle to keep your emotions in check during discussions?
- The power of ‘No’: Whether you're dealing with a business partner, a subordinate, or a senior executive, your ability to respectfully say “No” is a sign of self-assuredness.
- Be accurate: Avoid exaggerations or what-ifs during a sales pitch or a team meeting. Stick to data-driven points and real-world examples to make a convincing case.
- Counseling and coaching: Never underestimate the value of professional help, whether from an executive coach or a therapist. These experts can give you personalized strategies to become more assertive.
- Start small, aim big: Practice your acquired skills in non-threatening environments. As you gain confidence, you can graduate to more challenging and intricate business conversations.
Developing assertive communication skills takes time but allows you to stand up for your needs while respecting others.
Strategies for everyday business interactions
- Eye contact: Your eyes can speak volumes. Maintaining eye contact instills confidence, whether giving a presentation or in a one-on-one meeting.
- Your tone matters: Be firm yet respectful. A balanced tone will help you make your point without alienating your audience.
- Physical presence: How you carry yourself can add weight to your words. Stand tall and avoid nervous habits that undermine your message.
- Conciseness is key: Do not over-explain. Keep your messages straightforward and to the point.
- Time for reflection: Don’t hesitate to pause and let your words sink in. This adds weight to your words and gives others time to process it.
With practice, assertive communication becomes second nature.
The role of therapists in building assertiveness
A therapist can be invaluable if you're serious about enhancing your assertive communication skills, especially in the workplace.
Here are some compelling reasons to consider professional guidance:
A therapist provides a completely judgment-free environment to practice vulnerable interpersonal skills. You can make mistakes without real-world consequences.
- Objective behavioral analysis: Leveraging their expertise in psychology, therapists can identify default communication patterns that impair your assertiveness. It helps you become more aware of passive or aggressive tendencies you might not have recognized.
- Contextual role-playing: Therapists can simulate business scenarios requiring assertive communication through role-playing exercises. Such a hands-on approach helps develop almost a "muscle memory" for using assertive language in real-life situations.
- Skill-reinforcing assignments: Therapists often assign tasks to complete between sessions to solidify new habits. These tasks encourage frequent practice of assertive communication techniques, embedding them into your everyday business interactions.
- Feedback and adjustments: ensures that you properly integrate skills and techniques over time and don't develop bad habits.
Communication is a two-way street, and both employees and managers will benefit from eroding the communication barriers that lead to miscommunication, frustration, and loss of productivity.
If you'd like to help your employees through professional coaching, then let's talk!
