Assertive Communication

How to Speak Up and Set Limits without Wrecking the Relationship

Class Summary

(based on last 3 sessions)

If you listen to interactions in today’s workplace, more often than not you’ll hear every communication style in the book except true assertive communication.  People either suffer in silence, beat around the bush, or jump down somebody’s throat. Rarely will you hear people state clearly, calmly, and without defensiveness or manipulation what it is they want or need.  And who can blame them?  They don’t know how!

Assertiveness skills aren’t taught in school and good role models are few and far between. But there is help.  In this one-day session, you’ll learn methods to maximize the chance of getting what you want without unduly jeopardizing relationships. All it takes is an introduction to the skills and practice, practice, practice!

COM3 3.5 Combinable 0.53
One 4-hour session
Janet Welch-McGrath

This course is appropriate for employees taking their first training in this area or who have had previous exposure to the topic but want a good refresher.

  • Improved “people skills.”
  • Increased cooperation from others.
  • Higher self-esteem and greater self-confidence.
  • Greater respect from co-workers, management, and family.

By the end of this program, you will be able to:

  • Describe your communication style and how it impacts others.
  • Explain the difference between assertive, aggressive, and passive behavior.
  • Adapt your behavior for more successful interactions.
  • Give constructive criticism.
  • Use Assertiveness skills to resolve conflict.
  • Understanding Communication
    • Principles of Interaction
    • The Effect of Perceptions
  • Developing an Assertive Style in the Workplace
    • What is Assertive, Aggressive and Passive Style
    • Assessment of Personal Assertiveness
    • Identifying Your Communication Style
    • Non-verbal Aspects of Communication Style
    • Adapting Your Style
  • Assertive Strategies for Resolving People Problems
    • Creating Assertive Messages
    • Dealing with Criticism Directed at You
  • Avoiding Problems
    • Active Listening
    • Handling Aggressive People
    • Protecting Yourself from Negative People