I'm constantly asked by very smart, senior people about how to be more confident or assertive with senior stakeholders or clients. So please don't think that you're alone if you wonder about this too!
They wonder how to demonstrate their value without speaking for the sake or it, or 'blowing their own trumpet'. Or, how to have more presence or gravitas with more extroverted or experienced colleagues. Or, how to know whether what you've got to say is valuable or obvious.
Is this you? If so, you might want to think about building your assertiveness muscle in the new year, after a well-earned break.
Assertiveness is the art of balance. It's the middle ground between passivity and aggression, where your needs are met, as well as the other persons.
Start by thinking about the easiest next step you could take to build your assertiveness...you don't have to go from zero to hero overnight!
▪️ Try building on the statements of others in a group, e.g. 'Yes, and ...'
▪️ Ask questions to enter the conversation, instead of putting pressure on yourself to contribute.
▪️ Practice speaking up a little more in a safe space, such as with your peers
▪️ Try to connect before a meeting - break the ice before you get in the room
▪️ Be curious, focus on how you can add value, not how you are 'performing'
▪️ State the purpose and outcomes meetings up front
Rate yourself from 1 - 10. How assertive are you right now? How could you turn the dial up a notch or two in the New Year?
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