Assertive communication is a valuable skill for managers to possess, as it enables them to express their needs and opinions assertively without becoming aggressive or passive-aggressive (Risely, 2023). This skill can help improve conflict resolution, build stronger relationships, increase influence, improve decision-making, enhance time management, and boost performance (Risely, 2023).
Key Facts
- Being confident in assertive communication means believing in your ability to handle the situation and remaining composed.
- It helps to express your needs and opinions without fear of disapproval or rejection.
Clear:
- Clear communication is easy to understand and avoids exaggeration.
- It involves expressing thoughts, feelings, and needs in a straightforward manner, without ambiguity or passive-aggressiveness.
- Using specific language and avoiding filler words can enhance clarity in communication.
Controlled:
- Maintaining control in assertive communication refers to staying calm, level-headed, and in control of the conversation, even in difficult or emotional situations.
- Active listening, staying focused, and using body language effectively can help maintain control in communication.
The Three C’s of Assertive Communication
The three C’s of assertive communication are control, clarity, and confidence (Risely, 2023).
Control
Control refers to maintaining control over a situation and one’s emotions (Risely, 2023). In assertive communication, this means staying calm, level-headed, and in control of the conversation, even in difficult or emotional situations. It allows one to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts in a constructive manner (Risely, 2023).
How to Develop Control in Communication:
- Practice active listening.
- Stay calm.
- Avoid getting trapped in biases.
- Stay focused.
- Use body language.
- Seek feedback.
Clarity
Clarity refers to the ability to express oneself clearly and directly (Risely, 2023). In assertive communication, this means stating one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs in a straightforward manner, without ambiguity or passive-aggressiveness. Clarity helps to ensure that one’s message is understood and that the conversation remains productive (Risely, 2023).
How to Develop Clarity in Communication:
- Be specific.
- Use “I” statements.
- Avoid filler words.
- Avoid multitasking.
- Use visual aids.
Confidence
Confidence refers to the belief in oneself and the ability to communicate effectively (Risely, 2023). Among assertive communication skills, this means standing up for oneself, speaking one’s truth, and being comfortable expressing opinions and needs. Confidence helps to establish credibility and influence and fosters respect and trust in relationships (Risely, 2023).
How to Develop Confidence in Communication:
- Know your subject matter.
- Practice.
- Stay positive.
- Practice assertiveness.
- Use confident body language.
- Invite feedback.
Combining control, clarity, and confidence allows one to communicate assertively and effectively in various situations (Risely, 2023). Whether resolving conflicts, giving feedback, or negotiating, assertiveness can help one to get their point across, build stronger relationships, and achieve desired outcomes (Risely, 2023).
Conclusion
Assertive communication is a skill that can be learned and developed with practice (Simply Psychology, n.d.). By understanding the three C’s of assertive communication, managers can improve their communication skills and become more effective leaders.
References
- Risely. (2023, June 1). Assertive Communication Skill: The 3 Cs Of Assertiveness For Managers. https://www.risely.me/assertive-communication-skill-3-cs-of-assertiveness/
- Simply Psychology. (n.d.). Assertive Communication. https://www.simplypsychology.org/assertive-communication.html
- Texas Health and Human Services. (2018, February 1). SoTHM February 2018: Assertive Communication. https://tmd.texas.gov/Data/Sites/1/media/tmd-mental-health/2018/feb/01feb/sothm-feb-2018-assertive-communication.pdf
FAQs
What are the 3 C’s of assertive communication?
The 3 C’s of assertive communication are control, clarity, and confidence.
What is control in assertive communication?
Control in assertive communication refers to maintaining control over a situation and one’s emotions, even in difficult or emotional situations.
What is clarity in assertive communication?
Clarity in assertive communication refers to the ability to express oneself clearly and directly, without ambiguity or passive-aggressiveness.
What is confidence in assertive communication?
Confidence in assertive communication refers to the belief in oneself and the ability to communicate effectively, even in challenging situations.
How can I develop control in assertive communication?
You can develop control in assertive communication by practicing active listening, staying calm, avoiding getting trapped in biases, staying focused, using body language, and seeking feedback.
How can I develop clarity in assertive communication?
You can develop clarity in assertive communication by being specific, using “I” statements, avoiding filler words, avoiding multitasking, and using visual aids.
How can I develop confidence in assertive communication?
You can develop confidence in assertive communication by knowing your subject matter, practicing, staying positive, practicing assertiveness, using confident body language, and inviting feedback.
Why is assertive communication important?
Assertive communication is important because it allows individuals to express their needs and opinions assertively without becoming aggressive or passive-aggressive. It can help improve conflict resolution, build stronger relationships, increase influence, improve decision-making, enhance time management, and boost performance.