Thank you for your patience.

This was a message I received from a colleague some time ago and it made me think a lot. My colleague was a little late for a meeting we had scheduled - no problem in case you are reading - but I was interested in her choice of words. Naturally, most of us would say, sorry for being late. But there's a huge difference between the two sentences. Thank you for your patience reads and sounds much more assertive and confident.

Communication is a powerful tool in both personal and professional spheres. How we convey our thoughts and ideas can significantly impact how they are received by others. While many of us strive to be polite and considerate in our interactions, there are subtle shifts in language that can transform our communication from passive to assertive.

Consider the difference between saying "Sorry for the delay" and "Thanks for your patience." Both convey a sense of acknowledgment, but the latter frames the situation positively, expressing gratitude for the other person's understanding. This small change in language can make a big difference in how your message is perceived.

Here are some more examples of how simple tweaks in language can enhance assertiveness:

1. Instead of: "I think maybe we should reschedule the meeting." Try: "It's best to reschedule the meeting."
2. Instead of: "I just wanted to check in to see when this will be finished." Try: "When can I expect an update?"
3. Instead of: "What works best for you? Maybe Friday afternoon?" Try: "Could you do Friday afternoon?"
4. Instead of: "Sorry, my bad I completely missed that mistake." Try: "Thanks for bringing this to my attention."
5. Instead of: "No problem." Try: "Always happy to help."

By making these adjustments, you can communicate more assertively without coming across as rude or demanding. Assertive communication is about expressing your thoughts and needs clearly and respectfully, while also considering the perspective of others.

It's important to note that there is nothing inherently wrong with the "NO" examples. Politeness and consideration are vital aspects of effective communication. However, by being mindful of our language choices, we can become more confident and assertive communicators.

Remember, assertive communication is not about being aggressive or domineering. It's about finding a balance between expressing yourself and respecting others. So next time you find yourself crafting an email or having a conversation, think about how you can frame your message in a way that exudes confidence and clarity.

Practice these subtle shifts in language, and you'll soon notice a difference in how you are perceived and how your messages are received. Communication is a skill that can be honed and refined, and mastering assertive communication can open doors to better relationships and greater success in all areas of life.

What are your thoughts on assertive communication? Have you noticed any other language tweaks that make a difference? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!