Assertive Behaviour: Standing up for what you believe in

Business Communication MMM-Semester 3

2011-2014

Name/Roll No Nikunj Bhatia /05 Anil Kulkarni/29 Sanjay Ghadge/22 Anagha Shirur/55

TO ASSERT: To state an opinion, claim a right or establish authority

Assertiveness is expressing your opinions without ignoring or hurting the opinions of others
Assertive behavior includes: Starting, changing or ending conversations Making requests and refusing requests if they are too demanding Addressing problems that bother you Being firm so that your rights are respected Expressing positive & negative emotions Questioning rules that don't make sense or seem unfair
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The difference between Passive, Active & Assertive Behaviour

Passive Behaviour Aggressive Behaviour Interrupts and 'talks Is afraid to speak up over' others Speaks softly Avoids looking at people Isolates self Agrees with others, despite feelings Values self less than others Hurts self to avoid hurting others You're okay, I'm not Speaks loudly Glares and stares at others Controls groups Only considers own feelings Values self more than others Hurts others to avoid being hurt I'm okay, you're not Assertive Behaviour Speaks openly Uses a conversational tone Makes good eye contact Participates in groups Speaks to the point Values self equal to others Tries to hurt no one (including self) I'm okay, you're okay

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Barriers to Assertiveness
Sometimes people Do not believe that they have right to be assertive

Are highly anxious/fearful about being assertive

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Barriers to Assertiveness

Sometimes people

Lack the social skills for effective self expression Lack skills communication

Cultural influence

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Impact of non-assertive behaviour

Perceived as lacking leadership potential Misunderstanding and conflicts Bottled-up animosity Employee dissatisfaction Huge employee turn-over; brain drain Increased HR cost Benefit to competition

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Five steps to Assertive Behaviour

1. State the problem 2. Explain how it affects you 3. Listen to the other persons point of view and respect it 4. Be prepared to negotiate 5. Leave old grievances out of the conservation
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Non-Verbal Characteristics of Assertive Behaviour

Receptive listening Direct eye contact without staring Erect, balanced, open body stance Open hand movements Smiling when pleased Frowning when angry Features steady Jaw relaxed

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Verbal Characteristics of Assertive Behaviour

Fluent, few hesitations, firm tone of speech Voice appropriately loud for the situation Co-operative phrases e.g. What are your thoughts on this Emphatic statements of interest, e.g., I would like to Suggestions without shoulds, but Constructive criticism without blame Seek opinions, e.g., How does this fit in with your ideas Willingness to explore other solutions, e.g., How can we get around this problem?
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Tips for more assertive behaviour

The best way to become more assertive is through practice

Speak up when you have an idea or opinion

Stand up for your opinions and stick to them Make requests and ask for favors Refuse requests if they are unreasonable Accept both compliments and feedback Insist that your rights be respected Question rules or traditions that don't make sense or don't seem fair
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A more rewarding work-life

Better relationships with friends and family Completely change or introduce other aspects (such as personal or career opportunities) Improves your self-respect, earns you respect from those around you Change in your behavior can positively influence those around you, More positive and fulfilling interactions with friends, family, and coworkers Improve confidence of self & others Lesser resentment
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Thank You
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