Assertive Communication Skills

The main objective of this course is to empower professionals with:

• the ability to reach a higher level of competence in assertive communication
• real-time feedback on their spoken communication aligned with assertiveness in 21st-century communication
• the ability to recognise language and vocal aspects that do not align with assertive communication
• capability to correct these errors and self-improvise
• understanding of the requisites of an assertive (positive and collaborative) communicator
• ability to express ideas assertively on any subject
• the skill to initiate conversations, offer feedback, respond to criticism and compliment people assertively
• understanding of the potential of assertive listening, questioning and acknowledging the other

CONTENT:

Communication in the 21^st Century

• Communication in the 21^st Century
• Role of an Effective Communicator
• Good vs Bad Communication
• Impact of a Biased Communication
• Assess your Communication Style

Behaviours & Communication Styles

• Role of Behaviours in Communication
• Passive Communication
• Aggressive Communication
• Assertiveness in Communication
• Choose your Communication Style

Why Assertive Communication?

• What is Assertiveness?
• Merits of Assertive Communication
• Risks of Assertive Communication
• Saying NO Assertively

Becoming an Assertive Communicator

• Achieving a Balance
• Win-Win
• Word Choice
• Positive Language
• Applying Assertiveness in Tone

Assertive Body Language

• Introduction to Visual Communication
• First Impressions
• Body Language in a Virtual Set-up
• Posture and Poise
• Self-Assessment

Assertive Listening

• Introduction to Listening
• What is Empathetic Listening?
• Tips to Become an Assertive Listener
• Barriers to Effective Listening
• Interruptions and Pauses

Elements of Assertiveness

• The Power of Confidence
• Delivering a Clear Message
• Empathy and Acknowledgement
• Emotional Intelligence
• Worksheets and Practice

Assertiveness at the Workplace

• Assertiveness and Problem Solving
• Expressing an Opinion
• Criticism and Compliments
• Assertiveness and Productivity
• Managing Upwards

TRAINING METHODOLOGY

The training methodology combines lectures, discussions, group exercises and illustrations. Participants will gain both theoretical and practical knowledge of the topics. The emphasis is on the practical application of the topics and as a result participant will go back to the workplace with both the ability and the confidence to apply the techniques learned to their duties.