More from our ongoing Persuasion Survey…
Some respondents have stated their wish to be more assertive without being considered aggressive.
This is wise. Being aggressive will more often than not give you red lights.
Consider this from etymonline.com…
The etymology of ASSERT dates back to 1600: “to declare,” from L. assertus, pp. of asserere “to claim, maintain, affirm.” To assert oneself “stand up for one’s rights” is recorded from 1879.
The origin of AGGRESS dates back even further, “unprovoked attack,” noun of action verb aggress “to approach, to start an argument” (1570s).
Assertiveness reflects respect. Aggressiveness is disrespectful.
When we train executives to be more persuasive, we spend a fair amount of time on this distinction and we illustrate the empowering freedom we have to be assertive out of respect for ourselves AND for the people we strive to persuade.
What do you think? (Be assertive.)
Take 60 seconds to participate in the Persuasion Survey…
Click Here for the Online Survey
More results will be posted in each of the next several weeks.