Assertive communication styles: Learn about your communication style as a manager

Assertive communication styles are based on the individual’s self-awareness, motivation, and preference. These communication styles help people to communicate with clarity and confidence. When people use assertive communication styles, they feel more confident in their message delivery and know that they have been heard. In this blog, we will explore 5 different assertive communication styles and help you identify which one best fits your personality and communication style. We will also discuss the importance of assertive communication, its benefits, and the characteristics of an assertive communication styles. As a manager, understanding assertive communication can help you build stronger relationships, improve your communication skills, and lead your team to success. So, read on and learn more about assertive communication!

What is assertive communication?

Assertive communication involves expressing one’s thoughts, feelings, opinions, and needs in a clear, confident, and respectful manner. Assertive communication aims to establish mutual respect and understanding in a situation while avoiding aggression or passive behavior.

Some key characteristics of assertive communication include:

• Clarity: Expressing one’s thoughts, feelings, and opinions clearly and concisely.
• Confidence: Speaking in a manner that conveys confidence in one’s thoughts, feelings, and opinions.
• Responsibility: Taking responsibility for one’s actions, thoughts, and feelings and avoiding blaming others.
• Respect: Showing respect for other’s opinions and feelings while still being assertive in expressing oneself.
• Honesty: Being truthful and transparent in communication while avoiding deception or manipulation.

Assertive communication can effectively resolve conflicts, build strong relationships, and improve self-esteem and confidence. However, it is essential to note that assertiveness should not be confused with aggression or passiveness and requires a delicate balance between expressing oneself and respecting the opinions and feelings of others.

Importance of assertive communication

Assertive communication is important because it:

• Promotes self-esteem and respect: It allows individuals to express their thoughts and feelings confidently and directly, resulting in increased self-esteem and respect from others.
• Improves relationships: By clearly expressing one’s boundaries and expectations, assertive communication can lead to better relationships with others and reduce conflict.
• Increases efficiency: Assertive communication can help people get their point across clearly and directly, leading to the quicker and more efficient resolution of issues.
• Enhances decision-making: It allows individuals to express their opinions and considerations effectively, leading to more informed decision-making.
• Encourages personal responsibility: By communicating assertively, individuals take ownership of their thoughts and actions, leading to greater personal responsibility and accountability.

Types of assertive communication styles

There are several types of assertive communication styles, including:

Direct Assertiveness

This is the most straightforward type of assertiveness, where individuals express their thoughts and feelings directly and without hesitation. For example, “I feel uncomfortable with that situation, and I would like to discuss alternative options.” This direct communication style is effective when used clearly, concisely, and forcefully. However, it can be challenging to use direct assertiveness if you are not comfortable speaking in a confrontational way. These are a few signs of a direct assertive communication style:

• Confident body language
• Clear and direct language
• Maintains eye contact
• Respects the personal boundaries of others

Learn more from Guide To Nonverbal Communication For Managers: Types & How To Improve

Indirect Assertiveness

This type of assertiveness involves expressing one’s thoughts and feelings in a more indirect and non-confrontational way. For example, “I was wondering if we could consider a different approach. Can we talk about it?” This type of communication is effective when you need to communicate with someone difficult to reach or don’t want to get into an argument. Instead of directly confronting the other person, it can be more productive to talk about your concerns indirectly and express yourself in a way that doesn’t come across as aggressive. These are a few signs of an indirect assertive communication style:

• The soft or neutral tone of voice
• Asks questions rather than make demands
• Uses “I” statements instead of blaming others
• Avoids confrontational language

Aggressive Assertiveness

This type of assertiveness involves expressing one’s thoughts and feelings in a forceful or confrontational manner, often at the expense of others. For example, “That’s a stupid idea. We’re doing it my way.” Assertive communication is beneficial because it encourages people to be themselves and share their unique perspectives and experiences. However, assertive communication can become harmful when people use aggressive, assertive communication styles without thinking about the consequences of their behavior. These are a few signs of an aggressive assertive communication style:

• Intimidating body language
• The loud and forceful tone of voice
• Uses blaming or accusatory language
• Interrupts or talks over others

Check out Assertiveness vs. Aggressiveness: How to be an effective leader? It’s important to note that assertive communication is different from aggressive communication. While assertiveness involves expressing oneself confidently and directly, aggression often involves overpowering or demeaning others.

Passive Assertiveness

This type involves avoiding confrontation and suppressing one’s thoughts and feelings. For example, “It’s fine, I’ll do it.” This passive behavior can harm relationships, as it often leads to feelings of powerlessness and frustration. Instead of taking action, passive, assertive individuals tend to take on the role of a listener rather than a leader.   These are a few signs of a passive, assertive communication style:

• Avoiding eye contact
• Soft or mumbled speech
• Uses vague or non-committal language
• It avoids confrontation or difficult conversations

Assertiveness Responsiveness

Assertive Responsiveness is a type of assertive communication involving actively listening to others and being responsive to their needs while maintaining your boundaries and expectations. For ex: “I appreciate the request to work on the project, but I had already made plans for this evening. Can we discuss alternative options or schedule it for another day?” Assertive Responsiveness can lead to better communication, improved relationships, and more effective decision-making. It allows individuals to effectively express their thoughts and feelings while also considering the needs and perspectives of others. These are a few signs of an assertive responsiveness communication style:

• Maintains eye contact
• Nods and shows understanding through non-verbal cues
• Uses confident and direct language
• Expresses own thoughts and feelings clearly
• Considers the needs and perspectives of others while expressing own thoughts and feelings

7 Characteristics of assertive communication styles

1. Confidence: Assertive individuals communicate confidently and self-assuredly without being aggressive or dismissive of others.
2. Directness: Assertive communication is direct and to the point, avoiding vague or indirect language.
3. Respect for Others: Assertive individuals respect the opinions and feelings of others while still expressing their thoughts and feelings clearly and directly.
4. Clear Boundaries: Assertive individuals set clear boundaries and communicate their needs and expectations effectively.
5. Active Listening: Assertive individuals listen actively to others, showing empathy and understanding for their perspectives.
6. Responsibility: Assertive individuals take responsibility for their thoughts, feelings, and actions without blaming others.
7. Openness: Assertive individuals are open and transparent in their communication, avoiding defensive or evasive language.

By exhibiting these characteristics, individuals can communicate effectively and build positive relationships with others. Assertiveness promotes mutual respect and understanding and can lead to more effective decision-making and conflict resolution.

Benefits of assertive communication styles

1. Increased confidence: Assertiveness builds confidence, allowing individuals to communicate their thoughts and feelings effectively.
2. Effective conflict resolution: Assertive communication can lead to more effective conflict resolution by promoting open and honest dialogue and finding mutually agreeable solutions.
3. Reduced stress: Assertiveness helps to reduce stress by allowing individuals to effectively communicate their needs and boundaries, reducing frustration and misunderstandings.
4. Improved productivity: Assertiveness promotes open and transparent communication, increasing efficiency and productivity.
5. Enhanced professionalism: Assertiveness reflects a professional demeanor, helping to build trust and respect in the workplace.
6. Increased job satisfaction: Assertiveness can lead to greater job satisfaction by allowing individuals to effectively communicate their needs and goals, reducing frustration and burnout.

You can learn about your assertive communication styles by taking a free assessment on Assertive Communication. Do you also want to step up your game as a manager? You can step ahead in your professional journey by signing up at Risely! Risely provides daily tips and suggestions based on your personal needs and helps you grow as a professional.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Assertive communication is a powerful communication style that can help you communicate clearly and assertively, build relationships, and be a successful leader. By using assertive communication skills, you can better manage the interactions between others and yourself. Understanding your assertive communication style, benefits, and characteristics can help you build stronger relationships, resolve conflicts, and lead your team more effectively. You can become a more effective communicator and leader by practicing active listening, setting clear boundaries, and taking responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and actions.