Struggling to communicate assertively with your superiors in stressful meetings?

1 Know Your Worth

Understanding your value within your organization is the foundation of assertive communication. Remind yourself that your opinions and ideas are important and deserve to be heard. Before entering a meeting, take a moment to reflect on your achievements and contributions to the team. This self-affirmation can boost your confidence, making it easier for you to speak up. When you recognize your worth, you'll find it less daunting to address your superiors assertively.

2 Prepare Thoroughly

Preparation is key to reducing stress and communicating assertively. Before a meeting, ensure you are well-informed about the topics to be discussed. Note down your points and any questions you have so that you can refer to them during the meeting. This not only shows that you are engaged and proactive but also helps to structure your thoughts. When you're prepared, you'll feel more confident in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the conversation.

3 Practice Calmness

Staying calm under pressure is vital for assertive communication. Practice deep breathing or mindfulness techniques to manage stress before and during meetings. By maintaining a calm demeanor, you can think more clearly and articulate your points without being overshadowed by emotions. Remember that it's okay to pause and collect your thoughts before responding—this can actually emphasize your assertiveness by showing that you are thoughtful and composed.

4 Use "I" Statements

To communicate assertively without coming across as aggressive, use "I" statements. These are expressions that focus on your feelings and thoughts rather than attributing intentions or blame to others. For example, say "I feel that we could explore alternative solutions" instead of "You haven't considered other options." This approach allows you to express yourself clearly and respectfully, reducing the likelihood of defensive reactions from your superiors.

5 Establish Boundaries

It's important to establish and maintain professional boundaries during stressful meetings. Clearly communicate your limits and be willing to say no when necessary. If a superior asks for something beyond your capacity or against your values, respond with firmness and politeness. Asserting your boundaries demonstrates self-respect and can earn you respect from others, including those in higher positions.

6 Seek Feedback

Finally, seeking feedback from your superiors can help you improve your assertive communication skills. After a meeting, ask for constructive criticism on how you expressed yourself and handled the situation. This shows that you are open to learning and growth, which are essential aspects of personal development. Use the feedback to refine your approach and become more effective in future interactions.

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?