Assertiveness Skills: Communicating with Authority and Impact

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this course about? In this course you gain the tools and techniques for implementing assertive behaviors. Through a series of role-playing activities and workshops, you enhance your ability to get what you want and develop an awareness of your current behavior. You learn to consciously choose behavior that provides you with improved outcomes. You learn how to avoid operating passively or aggressively, while maintaining confidence, choosing appropriate non-verbal language and projecting a positive self-image. Who will benefit from this course? This course is valuable for anyone who wants to improve his or her ability to communicate assertively. Those who want to access tools that aid in speaking directly and firmly, expressing opinions confidently, and setting clear boundaries benefit from this course. What background do I need? No special background is required, but a need and willingness to enhance your ability to work constructively with others is helpful. How is this course structured? This course is structured around a dynamic style of learning created by Learning Tree called RealityPlusTM -- an immersive experience that engages you in authentic tasks within a simulated real-world context. Through media-rich case studies, role playing, and video/computer-based activities, you are immersed throughout the course in an evolving scenario where the decisions you make affect the outcome of the simulation. The RealityPlus learning method is presented in a safe environment where you gain new skills and practice the most effective techniques to bring back to your job. At the end of your course, you are prepared to immediately and successfully apply these new skills within your organization! Why would I want assertiveness skills? Professionals at all levels are faced with the daily challenges of gathering resources, asking for the help of others and meeting deadlines. Those who are able to communicate with assertiveness, rather than passivity or aggression, are more likely to maintain positive workplace relationships while meeting their goals. This course provides proven techniques for enhancing your ability to get what you want. Will I leave this course with a methodology for being assertive? Yes. Not only do you leave this course knowing what assertiveness is, you also have a toolkit for mapping out an assertiveness action plan. You gain exposure to models of behavior that are effective in a wide variety of situations. Is this a course that my whole team would benefit from? Yes. If everyone on your team understands the concepts and principles of assertiveness, you will all communicate more directly and with increased efficiency. This course is not designed to give you a competitive edge; it is designed to give you and the members of your team the ability to be on the same page. Is assertiveness about verbal communication only? No. Assertiveness is about verbal and non-verbal communication. There are many non-verbal signals that factor into how we are perceived. Gestures, facial expressions, appearance, and posture are all indicators of what we think of others and ourselves. What is the difference between assertive behavior and aggressive behavior? Assertive behavior is the ability to express your views, rights and opinions honestly, without infringing upon the rights of others. Assertiveness fosters good relationships and has a positive effect on others. Aggression, however, shuts down communication. Aggressive behavior may seem useful in fulfilling short-term goals, but it will eventually break down relationships and cause resentment. This course helps you to distinguish the differences between assertiveness and aggression. How much time is spent on each topic? Content Hours Assertiveness essentials 1.5 Assertiveness as an expression of personal power 2.0 Building your assertiveness skill set 4.0 Transcending challenging situations 1.0 Mastering assertiveness practicalities 2.0 Times, including the workshops, are estimates; exact times may vary according to the needs of each class. Are assertiveness skills relevant in situations outside of the workplace? Yes, these tools and techniques will enhance any kind of communication in any situation. The more opportunity you have to practice assertiveness skills in all areas of your life, the more proficient you will become in the workplace. How much time is devoted to workshops? Over 70% of the course will be experiential and active. Workshops include: A self-assessment inventory Scripting exercises Real-playing and role-playing non-verbal assertiveness Developing a personal plan for action and change There are interactive, group workshops focused on skill building, as well as individual writing activities in which participants focus on their unique needs and situations. Is this course applicable to a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification? Yes. Although this course is not designed as preparation for the exam, it is beneficial to anyone working toward PMI's PMP certification. For those who are currently certified, completion of this course counts as 11 professional development units (60 units must be completed every three years to maintain certification). For more details, please see the Learning Tree PMI Registered Education Provider Q&A. If you are an experienced project manager intending to take the PMP exam, you should take Course 276, Preparing for the Project Management Professional (PMP®) Exam. In this course you learn essential PMBOK® Guide - Third Edition terminology, tools and techniques. You gain practical test-taking experience through PMI-style practice exams and create your own personal study plan for continued use after the course. How does this course relate to other Learning Tree courses? Learning Tree offers several related courses. Please see our catalogue for complete details. Courses related to Course 244 include: 284, Critical Thinking and Creative Problem Solving  provides the skills to leverage your personal thinking preferences using techniques based on cutting-edge, whole-brain technologies. 292, Communication Skills: Results Through Collaboration  emphasizes specific tools and techniques for improving listening skills, delivering effective messages and bridging different communication styles. 294, Influence Skills: Getting Results Without Direct Authority  helps you deal with challenging relationships, influence and persuade your colleagues and provide leadership in your organization. 341, Negotiation Skills: Achieving Successful Outcomes , presents the methods, techniques and processes you need to confidently conduct successful negotiations. 344, Effective Time Management  provides strategies, techniques and tips to set priorities and manage the daily pressures of meeting important commitments. 345, Developing Dynamic Presentations provides the tools needed to plan and deliver polished presentations with confidence. 224, The Art of Coaching: Enabling Employees to Achieve Their Potential  covers the skills and behaviors necessary to uncover the potential in others and maximize professional performance. 246, Managing Information Overload: Techniques for Working Smarter provides the skills needed to process fast-paced information to develop a competitive edge.

The PMI R.E.P. logo is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc. RealityPlus is a trademark of Learning Tree International.