Last updated on Jun 29, 2024

Here's how you can cultivate long-term assertiveness and confidence in your career.

Assertiveness and confidence are not just desirable traits; they're essential for a flourishing career. To stand out in today's competitive job market, you need to be able to advocate for yourself and your ideas with conviction. This doesn't mean being aggressive or overbearing; rather, it's about finding a balance where you can communicate your thoughts and needs effectively while respecting others. Cultivating these skills takes time and practice, but the payoff is a more fulfilling and respected professional life.

1 Build Skills

To start, focus on building the necessary skills for assertiveness. This includes clear communication, active listening, and emotional intelligence. By expressing yourself clearly and concisely, you make sure your ideas are understood. Active listening ensures you fully comprehend others' perspectives, which is vital for meaningful interactions. Emotional intelligence allows you to navigate complex social situations, recognizing not just what you need to say, but how and when to say it.

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Klodjan Shaqiri

Shargan Consulting shpk
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Assertiveness isn't about being a bulldozer—unless you're in construction, then maybe. Clear communication, active listening, and emotional intelligence form the trifecta of assertiveness. By articulating your thoughts precisely, you ensure your message is received as intended. Active listening not only demonstrates respect but also enriches your understanding of others' viewpoints, fostering collaborative environments. Emotional intelligence is the linchpin, enabling you to gauge the right moments and methods for effective communication. Remember, assertiveness is a skill honed over time, so practice consistently and seek feedback.

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Dr. Melody Damaris Akhigbe OD, MNOA

Eye Health Advocate || Spoken Word Artist || Founder, Write For Success|| UNODC Youth Champion |
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Everything takes practice, including being assertive especially for young female professionals in the workplace. Sometimes you need to rehearse in front of the mirror and challenge yourself to take bold steps. It would be rocky and first but eventually, practice makes perfect!

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2 Set Boundaries

Establishing boundaries is crucial for assertiveness. Knowing your limits and being able to communicate them effectively helps prevent burnout and maintains healthy work relationships. It's important to be firm yet polite when setting these limits. This might involve saying no to additional tasks when your plate is already full or requesting a deadline extension when necessary. By doing so, you demonstrate respect for your own time and energy, which in turn commands respect from others.

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Dr. Melody Damaris Akhigbe OD, MNOA

Eye Health Advocate || Spoken Word Artist || Founder, Write For Success|| UNODC Youth Champion |
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Boundaries are dependent on priorities. You must recognise what is important to you as a person and whG your values are. That is what will shape your life and guide you on the boundaries you set for yourself.

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3 Practice Regularly

Like any skill, assertiveness improves with regular practice. Seek out opportunities to assert yourself in safe environments, such as team meetings or one-on-one discussions with a trusted colleague. Pay attention to your body language and tone of voice, as these nonverbal cues can reinforce your spoken message. Over time, these practice scenarios will build your confidence and make assertiveness a natural part of your professional demeanor.

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Dr. Melody Damaris Akhigbe OD, MNOA

Eye Health Advocate || Spoken Word Artist || Founder, Write For Success|| UNODC Youth Champion |
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Yes! Nobody gets better at anything without practice. It's good to get the theories from books and seminars but the practice is where the true magic happens. Start small; very small because habit changes especially in adults is a gradual process. Set small attainable goals in line with your vision of assertiveness and pursue them fiercely.

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4 Accept Feedback

Receiving feedback is an integral part of developing assertiveness. Constructive criticism helps you understand how your assertive behavior is perceived by others. Embrace this feedback, reflect on it, and use it to adjust your approach. Remember that assertiveness is about mutual respect, so be open to learning from the perspectives of others. This will not only improve your assertiveness but also enhance your workplace relationships.

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Dr. Melody Damaris Akhigbe OD, MNOA

Eye Health Advocate || Spoken Word Artist || Founder, Write For Success|| UNODC Youth Champion |
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Ask trusted friends and family about their honest opinion and be ready to accept criticism. Be careful who you listen to though! Some people don't want you to be assertive so they can keep manipulating you. You need to be self aware and take the criticism as a ladder to self improvement and not a crutch to your success...in other words don't take it personal! Learn the lesson and keep trying.

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5 Reflect Often

Self-reflection is key to personal growth. Regularly take time to reflect on your interactions and assess your level of assertiveness. Consider whether you were able to express your ideas effectively and if you maintained a balance between your needs and those of others. Reflecting on successes and areas for improvement will guide your ongoing development and help solidify assertive behaviors as a natural part of your professional repertoire.

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Dr. Melody Damaris Akhigbe OD, MNOA

Eye Health Advocate || Spoken Word Artist || Founder, Write For Success|| UNODC Youth Champion |
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Journaling has really helped me with self reflection and I highly recommend it to everyone. It helps you organise your thoughts, recognise your growth and help plan for the future. Take stock regularly and identify challenges you are having to achieving your goal of assertiveness.

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6 Stay Positive

Finally, maintain a positive attitude towards your journey in building assertiveness and confidence. Recognize that setbacks are part of the learning process and that each one provides a valuable lesson. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, as each step forward contributes to your overall growth. A positive mindset will keep you motivated and resilient in the face of challenges.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Staff Development

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Here's how you can cultivate long-term assertiveness and confidence in your career.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Build Skills

2 Set Boundaries

3 Practice Regularly

4 Accept Feedback

5 Reflect Often

6 Stay Positive

7 Here’s what else to consider

Staff Development

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Here's how you can cultivate long-term assertiveness and confidence in your career.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Build Skills

2 Set Boundaries

3 Practice Regularly

4 Accept Feedback

5 Reflect Often

6 Stay Positive

7 Here’s what else to consider

Staff Development

Rate this article

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