There are a lot of nice people in the workforce.

...And a few who aren't so nice.  You know the type - they try to steamroll underlings and co-workers to get their way.  They want what they want, and don't appear to care for anyone's ideas or feelings.

Your mission is to take no bull from them.  But in a nice way.  By being assertive.

There is a difference between being assertive and aggressive.  Assertiveness involves speaking your mind with respect; aggressiveness involves sounding off without regard to respect.

If you've taken bull from overly aggressive people, it may be because you fear confrontation, or you're modest, or some other reason.  In short, you probably suffer from one or more assertiveness myth.

In the workplace, though, taking bull will hold you back.  It's important to stand your ground and remember that you have certain rights.  If you've taken bull from co-workers and/or managers, there is hope:

Know yourself.  You may be assertive and not even know it.  In fact, there are varying degrees of assertiveness.  To gage yourself objectively (if not scientifically), you might want to test yourself or seek advice from non-partial parties.  If, for instance, you notice hovering nearby when you're in the midst of a dispute, ask him/her afterward how assertive you were.  Knowing your base point can only help you improve.

Draw a line in the sand.  Many experts suggest setting boundaries as a means of maintaining respect.  If someone is trampled upon, they lose respect of those around them and - even worse - of themselves.  Knowing where to draw that line is important: if it's too close to you, you might as well not have a line; if it's too far out, you may be seen as defensive.

Practice your newfound assertiveness.  Like any other skill, assertiveness takes practice.  And, like other skills, it takes time to develop and hone.  Use your new skill and learn how it fits into your personality.

IN THE CARAVAN: To take no bull, assess your current level of assertiveness, set boundaries and practice your newfound skill.

NEXT WEDNESDAY: Situational Leadership

Want more advice on Adding Value? Check out these posts and The Lion's Pride section of WildJobSafari.com!

Check out last Wednesday's post on the Top 10 Job Search Lies.

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