How to Be More Assertive in Business

Being assertive in business makes the difference between a low-paying job and an executive position. If you own your own business, an assertive demeanor will get you more clients and leave you with happy, motivated employees. Read the following tips to deal with employees, co-workers and clients more effectively.

Instructions

1. Gather your facts. If you're having a problem with a client's instructions on a website project, review your notes and ask questions to clarify the orders. Learn all you can about company procedures and projects. When counseling an employee with disciplinary problems, know their history before calling them into the office. Never assume--always have all the pertinent information at hand.

2. Distinguish between an assertive demeanor and an aggressive one. Aggressive people overreact and deny others the right to even voice their opinion. They have an "it's my way or the highway" attitude. Assertive people stand up for themselves while allowing others to state their side of the issue, and use logic instead of emotion to make decisions.

3. Practice what you're going to say before a business meeting. Run your thoughts by a trusted colleague, or simply go over what you want to say in a firm but not aggressive voice.

4. Stand your ground even when confronted with an aggressive or submissive person. A difficult business client will try to bully you into his way of thinking, while a submissive employee may try to make you feel guilty. Either way, stay cool, speak calmly and follow through on all your points.

5. Cope with criticism in a rational manner. Avoid the urge to become defensive. Let your client or co-worker have her say, think about it and then respond without becoming emotional. He'll respect you more if you act in an assertive, professional manner and may even see your point of view.