Executive Assistants interact with every level of the business, including the C-suite. Knowing how to communicate with everyone so you are heard and listened to is important. Using assertive behaviour helps you in these situations.
What is the true meaning of assertiveness, and why is it so beneficial for EAs?
What does assertive behaviour really mean?
Assertiveness walks the line between passive and aggressive behaviour. It's honest and respectful communication that stands up for yours, and others, rights.
If you want examples of people using assertive behaviour, look no further than Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr. Both these individuals spoke up for people's rights in a way that demonstrated a respect for everyone involved while refusing to be ignored.
People often mistakenly associate the idea of assertiveness with aggression. However, the two are quite different. The latter doesn't take into account other people, and is often pushy and demanding. Assertive behaviour, on the other hand, seeks to put your opinion forward without overriding others.
The benefits of assertiveness as an EA
As an EA, you're often the voice of your Executive. Assertiveness ensures you're heard. It's also a way of behaving that reflects well on you and your Executive. Being assertive allows you to stand your ground if someone is trying to push back against a reasonable request, or is trying to undermine you.
Assertiveness is having the confidence to take control of tricky scenarios. A passive person might try smooth things over by any means possible to avoid the conflict, while an aggressive personality could refuse to listen, forcing a resolution that leaves the other party unhappy.
However, as an EA neither of these options are ideal. Instead, responding in a respectful manner that expects the same treatment in return can calm the situation down. Using assertive behaviour you're much more likely to resolve the conflict in a way that does not let the other party take advantage of the confrontation while also reducing the chance of resentment.
Being an assertive EA also brings benefits to your working relationship with your Executive. Managing up is a difficult skill to master. However, assertiveness can help. For example, if your Executive finds it difficult to let go of certain tasks, it gives you the confidence to talk to them about this. Don't allow it to slide, or make passive aggressive comments about how it's something you could do if they'd only trust you.
Instead, discuss it with them. Let them know it's something you can handle, and why you think the task should come to you. Listen to any qualms they might have and respond appropriately - but if it's something you truly believe you should be doing for both your sake and theirs, explain this in a respectful way.
If you're looking for more ways to become an effective and confident EA, don't forget to check out our blog. Written for EAs, we seek to create articles to help you succeed at your work.