Being More Assertive in the Workplace

  • Being More Assertive in the Workplace

    Albany, OR - December 22, 2021

    2021-12 Staffing Solutions in Albany While exuding niceness in the workplace can endear you to your coworkers and managers, it can sometimes lead to you accepting more work than you should which can ultimately lead to feelings of burnout at work. If you fall into the too-nice category, a staffing company in Albany, OR is here to help by sharing this blog with tips on being more assertive at work! 

    1. Know what you want. Before you can communicate your wants to others, you need to know what they are. How much work is too much for one person? When should you take a break? Having definite goals in mind will help keep your assertiveness from crossing the line into aggressiveness. 

    2. Use "I" statements. When communicating your wants and needs, use "I" statements rather than "you" statements. For example, don't say, "You always want me to work during my lunch break, and I can never recharge." Instead, say, "I need a break if you want my productivity level to stay constant." Avoiding "you" statements can help prevent your message from coming across as accusatory or aggressive, giving you a better chance of being heard. 

    3.Learn to say no. If you find yourself taking on more work than you can handle, learn to politely decline tasks that are above and beyond what is expected of you. If you're worried about upsetting your manager, say no to tasks that aren't part of your job description. 

    4. Don't apologize for setting boundaries and sticking up for yourself. While it is important to be kind and respectful during your communication with others, you don't want people walking all over you. There's a difference between being assertive and being a doormat.  

    5. Practice, practice, practice. Like anything else, the more you practice being assertive, the better you will become at it. If you find yourself struggling with communicating your wants and needs, take a moment to reframe your thoughts. You shouldn't be feeling guilty for asking for what you deserve or saying no to an unreasonable request; you should say it politely but firmly, without apology. 

    Being assertive at work is about knowing what you want, speaking up for yourself, and setting boundaries. It can be hard to change your ways if you've been too nice for too long, but the benefits of being more assertive in the workplace are worth it. So, start small and work your way up. And above all else, be respectful! 

    Locally owned and operated, Express Employment Professionals in Albany, OR, is a Full-Service Employment Agency that continually exceeds expectations by providing services to companies and job seekers within our community. With over 20 years of experience, our mission is simple: to assist you in finding a career that you will enjoy.    


    Express Employment Professionals of Albany, OR   
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    Albany, OR 97322   
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