What is Assertiveness?

You have a right to stand up for yourself and others. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Everyone has a right to stand up for his or her beliefs – that is the definition of being Assertive!

Saying something you know will hurt someone’s feelings is just being Assertive. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Saying something you know will hurt others is just being mean.  It is important to speak up for yourself, but you can do that without hurting those around you.  If you know what you are about to say may hurt someone, but you still feel you need to say it, consider phrasing your statement as kindly as possible.  For example, say something complimentary or pleasant at the same time, or acknowledge it is a difficult topic and handle it discreetly.

Demanding things from others is another way of being Assertive. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Demanding is being aggressive, not assertive.  You can stand up for your thoughts and beliefs without forcing them on others.

Which of the following determines if you are Assertive? 

• How attractive you are

• How much money you have

• Your communication skills

• How many people agree with you

Answer explanation

Looking attractive, having money or having people back you up may help some people be Assertive, but you do not need these qualities to be Assertive.  In fact, a true test of Assertiveness is if you are willing to take a stand even if you know others might not agree with you or be in awe of your looks or money.  The way you communicate is critical in how you are perceived by others and also how you feel about yourself.  If you are confident in communicating and you can hit the balance between being too soft or too hard, you will be Assertive.  Communication skills in business and in your personal life are essential and should be used correctly.

Which of the following is an example of Assertive behavior? 

• Being bold and controlling the conversation

• Agreeing with everything people say

• Judging others

• Speaking openly and valuing both your and others’ opinions 

Answer explanation

Assertive behaviour is speaking one’s mind but doing so without talking over others or ignoring others’ opinions and feelings. 

Which of the following is an example of Assertive behavior? 

• Slamming doors and making a lot of noise 

• Standing in a corner and avoiding people 

• Making direct eye contact with others and looking relaxed and open 

• Crossing your arms and making direct eye contact 

Answer explanation

Making direct eye contact and remaining comfortable and open for discussion is one way to show you are assertive.  Avoiding people or intimidating them is a sign that you are too passive or aggressive. 

It is better not to stand up for yourself so people will not think you are aggressive. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

You can speak up for yourself and be assertive without being aggressive.  Remember, being Assertive does not mean being impolite.  As long as you respect that other people have different feelings and opinions, people will respect you when you speak.

Assertive people are usually rich and overconfident. 

• True

• False

Answer explanation

If someone comes across as wealthy and overconfident, it is probably because they are being inconsiderate to others.  That is not the same as being Assertive.  Being Assertive is the balance of confidence and humility.