What is Assertive Communication? Definition of Assertive Communication, Assertive Communication Meaning and Concept
Assertive communication is the ability to express opinions or comments in a respectful way, without making anyone feel offended and avoiding the possibility of conflict.
Assertive communication is a way of communicating something to someone honestly, without hurting or harming them. This type of communication can be worked on to improve it little by little.
It is one of the skills most required by companies when looking for candidates to fill a job.
In addition, in any leadership worth its salt, assertive communication will be handled optimally.
Assertive communication aims to be able to express oneself in a sincere, simple way and exposing what one wants. But with the ability to do it without hurting anyone.
Assertive communication characteristics
These are the characteristics of assertive communication:
- One of the main characteristics is that it tries to show a person's desires or what they want, but always in a polite and honest way.
- Personal reproaches, constant attacks or resorting to hurtful information that discredit an individual is avoided.
- It is not a passive communication or that prevents exposing what is truly desired. The difference is that you communicate with honesty, respect and choosing the most appropriate words so as not to generate conflict.
- In assertive communication, balance is sought to express the opinion that one has without belittling someone.
Assertive communication techniques
Given the importance of assertive communication, we will list some techniques to improve it. These techniques, all said, can be especially useful at work:
- It is important to put into practice active listening to attend to the information and the message transmitted to us by the person with whom you are talking.
- Speaking in the first person to expose what one feels is essential. This avoids constantly blaming someone, without also assuming your own responsibilities.
- Communicate without making value judgments. Judging or corseting someone is not recommended, as this prevents assertive communication from being put into practice.
- Arguing instead of demanding in the first instance. It is important to present reasons, motives and arguments that give value to the communication.
Assertive communication example
Let's imagine that a customer has not paid an invoice that should have been paid more than a month ago.
If we use an assertive communication, we will indicate that this amount is pending, the reasons that you express will be addressed and a solution will be sought.
The idea is to set a specific date for you to make the payment. In addition, the reasons given by that client are addressed and honest and effective communication is established.
On the contrary, a communication based on aggressiveness would be to demand immediate payment without listening to the causes that have led you not to pay the money yet.
Obviously, this type of communication can generate conflict from the beginning. Passive communication in which the customer is simply told that when he can pay is also not appropriate.
The ideal is to establish assertive communication so that everything flows in a positive way and there is an understanding between the people who are communicating.
