The Fifth Commandment of Highly Effective Leadership- Be an Assertive Communicator

Working with a team is not always a Breeze. We all know communication is key for team building and is the crux of the organizational culture. However, Assertive communication is not always that easy. Assertive communication can be both a strength and a challenge, depending on the context and the individual’s skills. While the strengths can mean helping conveying your message clearly and effectively, reducing misunderstandings, boosting confidence, promoting mutual respect and helping in resolving conflicts, there is a flip side to this skill. Cultural differences may make one think assertive as being rude or disrespectful, personal inhibitions may prevent speaking out clearly, feelings of shyness and lack of an environment that promotes openness and firm communication may be challenges. Think of assertive communication like a walk on the beach without getting swept away by a high tide! When done right, you can have the cool waters washing your feet where you feel at ease and under a rip tide, you would feel you are drowning or losing control over the situation. Assertive communication requires regular care and attention to keep it being misconstrued or damaging. Read more on this Forbest article on Assertive Communication. Click here to read