Assertive techniques

September 18, 2012|employees, Employers, Tips At work| No comments yet

Assertiveness is a personality trait that some people are born with or may acquire throughout life experiences. Some people have to work at being assertive while others have to train themselves through practice. Individuals with an assertive personality often develop opportunities and gain advantages more often than those with a passive or aggressive personality; however, some people often misconstrue the meaning of assertive as they often associate it with aggressiveness. It is essential to understand the difference to avoid exuding undesirable traits that may be associated with being aggressive.

Understanding the Trait of Assertiveness

Being assertive in the workplace can be beneficial for both the company and the employee. People with an assertive personality often have strong communication skills and self-confidence. Job positions that require face-to-face interaction with customers or clients can be performed efficiently and effectively with these types of skills. Assertive individuals often display a caring personality while showing others respect and being attentive to their needs while modestly requesting the same in return.

Passive people are often afraid to say no to others while people with assertive personalities do not typically have a problem with refusal. Assertive individuals can often clearly explain the justification behind their choices although rationalization is not essential in many cases. Assertive individuals often know how to explain their actions and decisions to others with confidence and respect.

The Benefits of an Assertive Personality During the Job Search Process

Individuals with an aggressive personality often come across as offensive or hateful. Assertive personalities can effectively express feelings without coming across too harshly. A person who clearly communicates their wants and needs during an interview with a potential employer can demonstrate to the interviewer that they have the skills that may be necessary to do the job effectively.

An assertive personality can even be exuded on a resume. Accomplishments and personal achievements should be listed to market the skills of the writer and how those achievements can benefit the company they are seeking a position with. A potential employer will be dissuaded by a resume that implies the company is inferior to the applicant. The employer is more likely to call the applicant who can clarify what the applicant can do for the company and how they can do it efficiently.

What Employers Like About an Assertive Employee

Individuals who apply assertive techniques in the workplace are often the most proficient and productive. They often have the ability to provide constructive criticism without offending anyone. In turn, they are also likely to receive criticism from others without getting offended. Honesty is a characteristic that can be invaluable to many employers. Assertive personalities typically have the ability to avoid conflict while remaining candid and respectful to others.