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Tips to Become More Assertive
By Lisa Arnold
A well-groomed appearance is an important step in becoming assertive. The way a person dresses tells much about them. Wearing too much makeup or wearing clothes that fit too tightly or loosely or wearing clothes that are rumpled is not the kind of impression to make. Dressing for success is key for gaining respect and for being taken seriously in the work force or in another aspect of life. In general, do not wear casual clothing such as a jogging suit or yoga pants or clothing that you would wear to a dance or night club. Keep clothing simple, sharp and smart and you will be dressed to impress.
Confidence is another key point to being assertive. Try not to show any signs of nervousness even if feeling nervous when asking for something. Look people in the eye when speaking to them and talk in a clear and strong voice. Speaking in a clear tone shows an unwillingness to be pushed aside and seriousness. Do not yell when speaking, but be loud enough to be heard. Do not whisper or look down or around the room, and do not act or talk in an aggressive tone. A good rule to remember is being assertive does not mean being aggressive.
Listening to others, staying calm and being willing to negotiate are all important tips for being assertive. Staying calm and focused shows willingness to be reasonable and it shows willingness to talking things out and the ability to negotiate if the need arises.
Being open to discussion and having the ability to keep a bad temper in check shows control. An explosive or hot temper will not have positive results and often turns people away. Most of all, it will not resolve the situation.
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