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Assertive Communication Techniques To Get Your Message Across And Be Heard
Assertive communication techniques that allow you to express yourself clearly while still earning respect take a bit of practice but are well worth the effort.
By: Allie Casey
Assertive communication techniques that allow you to express yourself clearly while still earning respect take a bit of practice but are well worth the effort.
By: Allie Casey
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Assertive means without becoming loud, angry or irritated. And, respect is not synonymous with agreement it means with proper concern and courtesy.
Here are 5 assertive communication techniques your can practice to be heard without being misunderstood:
1. Self-disclosure is revealing information about yourself that allows others to respond to you by creating a shared or relatable vulnerability. This is particularly difficult for managers and leaders to practice as sharing personal deficiencies no matter how common or insignificant are discouraged.
"I don't know much about..." is a powerful statement that suggests your willingness to learn is greater than your need to be right.
Using the common feel, felt, found approach can also be effective self-disclosure technique:
"I understand how you feel, I felt that way myself when the company changed hands, but then I found that by listening to their point-of view I realized we had many common values."
2. Acknowledging without agreeing is another communication skill assertive people practice. This is especially helpful when dealing with a dissenter during a meeting or presentation.
"What an interesting thought..." acknowledges the speaker without encouraging further conversation.
"That might be true and here are my thoughts..." is another option.
3. Calm repetition of the same words is a communication skill that is useful when giving information that might not be well-received.
"My intention is to provide you with the details of the new program..." clearly stated in a firm but calm voice repeatedly until you are acknowledged and given the platform is one possible phrasing.
4.Negative assertion is a bit trickier to use and requires a neutral tone of voice. Occasionally someone may attempt to make you wrong especially regarding principles. You might try this:
"Let me understand, you are saying I'm wrong?" Again, a calm non-accusatory voice is important.
5. When a criticism has been directed at you without explanation, assertively ask for more information while repeating the negative comment.
"What is it about my sales presentation that makes you say it is difficult to follow?
These are just a few communication skills everyone can practice in the workplace to create a more respectful environment while decreasing misunderstandings.
If you would like more tips and techniques on communicating and listening go to www.listeningskillssuccess.com and claim a FREE Listening Skills Assessment and report instantly. I'm guessing you'll find a few 'aha' moments while you're taking this short evaluation.
Allie Casey, workplace communications speaker, trainer, and coach helps business people decrease misunderstandings, increase confidence and be more productive. Let Allie bring fun, enthusiasm and experience to you next meeting. Contact Allie at www.alliecasey.com only if you want more cooperation and fewer headaches.
Here are 5 assertive communication techniques your can practice to be heard without being misunderstood:
1. Self-disclosure is revealing information about yourself that allows others to respond to you by creating a shared or relatable vulnerability. This is particularly difficult for managers and leaders to practice as sharing personal deficiencies no matter how common or insignificant are discouraged.
"I don't know much about..." is a powerful statement that suggests your willingness to learn is greater than your need to be right.
Using the common feel, felt, found approach can also be effective self-disclosure technique:
"I understand how you feel, I felt that way myself when the company changed hands, but then I found that by listening to their point-of view I realized we had many common values."
2. Acknowledging without agreeing is another communication skill assertive people practice. This is especially helpful when dealing with a dissenter during a meeting or presentation.
"What an interesting thought..." acknowledges the speaker without encouraging further conversation.
"That might be true and here are my thoughts..." is another option.
3. Calm repetition of the same words is a communication skill that is useful when giving information that might not be well-received.
"My intention is to provide you with the details of the new program..." clearly stated in a firm but calm voice repeatedly until you are acknowledged and given the platform is one possible phrasing.
4.Negative assertion is a bit trickier to use and requires a neutral tone of voice. Occasionally someone may attempt to make you wrong especially regarding principles. You might try this:
"Let me understand, you are saying I'm wrong?" Again, a calm non-accusatory voice is important.
5. When a criticism has been directed at you without explanation, assertively ask for more information while repeating the negative comment.
"What is it about my sales presentation that makes you say it is difficult to follow?
These are just a few communication skills everyone can practice in the workplace to create a more respectful environment while decreasing misunderstandings.
If you would like more tips and techniques on communicating and listening go to www.listeningskillssuccess.com and claim a FREE Listening Skills Assessment and report instantly. I'm guessing you'll find a few 'aha' moments while you're taking this short evaluation.
Allie Casey, workplace communications speaker, trainer, and coach helps business people decrease misunderstandings, increase confidence and be more productive. Let Allie bring fun, enthusiasm and experience to you next meeting. Contact Allie at www.alliecasey.com only if you want more cooperation and fewer headaches.
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