6 Communication Techniques to Be More Assertive | by Sydney Williams
The three main communication skills are asking, listening, and telling according to a study that was done in 2015. The same study had 88% of the respondents claim that leaders who are good at all three communication styles are exceptional in life. Here are the top 6 ways to be more assertive in your communication as an apprentice, so you too can be amazing in life.
1) Eye Contact
Maintaining eye contact when communicating with someone is crucial. If your eyes are wandering, this implies restlessness, impatience, and disinterest, which makes talking counterproductive. Just make sure when keeping eye contact to not look directly in the eyes intently and intimately as this can show different meanings, and can possibly get creepy. A good rule is to maintain eye contact for 5 seconds before looking away.
2) Mirroring the Other Person’s Behavior and Body Language
When both parties are engaged in conversation, mirroring each other’s body language comes naturally. When nonverbal behavior, tone, and language are mirrored, this creates togetherness of being on the same wavelength thus showing feelings of trust, acceptance, and vulnerability.
3) Let Your Arms Hang at Your Sides
I understand the discomfort of not knowing where to put your hands during conversation or when presenting to a group. Some people place their arms across their chests or place their hands in their pockets. Both can possibly symbolize disagreement or defensiveness as well as closing yourself to ideas and suggestions. When your arms are hung by your side. You’re allowing your body to move naturally. This will imply that you’re listening, engaged, and not afraid to let your arms be free.
4) Listen and Understand What They’re Saying
Don’t manipulate anyone into thinking that you’re listening and paying attention. The audience will be aware of this emotionally and energetically. Body language doesn’t lie. Always make sure to listen to what the other person is saying and do your best to understand the message. And if there’s no understanding, ask clarifying questions. When you’re listening fully, your body language follows. The human body follows the energy.
5) Say What you Mean, Mean What you Say
Be real with your feelings and thoughts. If you believe in what you’re saying in totality, you will look and sound confident. Being authentic and honest will make people want to listen to what you have to say. Authenticity and integrity are essential in effective communication.
6) Make Yourself Heard
It’s hard to listen to someone whose voice doesn’t fluctuate and just stays in one tone throughout the whole conversation. Find your voice when speaking and modulate your voice — without yelling, of course. Assessing your communication skills will help you develop into a better communicator and leader. With perseverance, dedication, and time anyone and everyone will want to listen to what you have to say — either good or bad. Always focus on mastering asking, telling, and listening and you’ll be amazed by how much more assertive you can get.
Sydney Williams is a Business Administration apprentice and is writing for the Apprentice Lens as part of the Blogging Team.
"Take a glimpse into my imagination, creativity, and joy by reading my voice and learning my perspective of reality. I aim to teach and add value to your life by learning lessons from mine. Enjoy! :) Based in Dallas, TX."