| In this post we continue our learning on “Executive Presence”. If you missed the start of this topic , you can catch up here. Communicating Assertively Assertiveness is a cornerstone of Executive Presence. It is the ability to express your views, needs, and ideas confidently, while respecting others. Assertive communication has three key elements: 1. Verbal Use clear, direct “I” statements Focus on solutions rather than problems Ask questions to understand others’ perspectives 2. Vocal Maintain a steady, calm tone Use pace and pauses effectively Emphasise key points 3. Visual Maintain relaxed, appropriate eye contact Adopt open, balanced body language Ensure posture reflects confidence Research suggests communication impact is largely non-verbal, meaning how you say something often matters more than the words themselves. A useful framework for handling challenging conversations is the AIDA model: Acknowledge the other person’s perspective Impact – explain how it affects you or the situation Desired outcome – propose a solution Agreement – confirm next steps Practical takeaway: Before your next challenging conversation, map out your message using AIDA. This ensures clarity, professionalism, and an outcome rooted in pyschological positivity. |
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