Assertiveness refers to the ability to express yourself and defend your rights, opinions or needs clearly, directly and respectfullywithout aggression or submission. It is based on self-confidence and recognition of the rights of others.
An assertive person knows how to say "no" without feeling guilty, how to set limits and how to formulate demands constructively.
Why develop this soft skill?
Assertiveness is essential for :
- Managing disagreements without conflict
- Speaking out in tense or ambiguous situations
- Asserting yourself in the face of passive or aggressive behaviour
- Gaining respect while respecting others
Examples
- Saying no to an unreasonable request without being aggressive.
- Expressing disagreement constructively.
- During a meeting, an employee expresses his disagreement in a calm, non-aggressive manner, while listening to the opinions of his colleagues. This is an assertive attitude.
Assertiveness is the language of self-esteem.
Jean Garneau, psychologist
How can we develop it?
- Learning to express disagreements in a non-aggressive way.
- Use the "I" method: "I feel...", "I wish...", "I suggest...".
- Work on body posture and tone of voice.
- Practising NVC and the games of role in training.
- Practise saying "no" without excessive justification.
🔁 Associated skills
- Self-confidence
- Active listening
- Non-violent communication
- Conflict management
Self-assessment
✅ I know how to say "no" without feeling guilty.
✅ I enforce my limits calmly.
✅ I express my needs without aggression.
✅ I show respect, even when I disagree.
✅ I can give constructive criticism.
Less than 4 positive responses? Assertiveness is an area that needs to be strengthened.
Training
Assertiveness and assertiveness
Assertiveness and assertiveness training
Read also
Managers, develop your assertiveness!
Assertiveness: the essential quality of the assistant
To remember
Assertiveness enables us to establish healthy, balanced and respectful relationships. It encourages cooperationreinforces mutual trust and prevents unnecessary conflicts. It's an essential skill for anyone who wants to express themselves with accuracy and impact.