Are you struggling to voice your opinions in the boardroom, with your boss, or during review sessions? You’re not alone. Most professionals had problems with that aspect of work.
So you wish to know how to speak up for yourself at work but don’t wish to sound too aggressive or, even worse, be entirely ignored altogether. The fact is, assertiveness is something you can learn, and as with any ability, it can be mastered.
Below are seven assertive statements to allow you to get your message across and be heard without stepping on anyone’s toes.
1. “I’d like to see another viewpoint.”
This is disagreeing or contributing something new in a strong and polite manner without being confrontative. It preserves the team aspect and reminds others that you are contributing, not hijacking, the conversation.
How to use it at work:
During a team meeting, when you don’t agree with the proposed approach, state, “I’d like to propose another perspective. What if instead of looking at it this one way, we viewed it as the client does?”
This makes you strategic and thoughtful. It is especially useful where diplomacy is crucial. It also shows open communication, hence other people feel open to practicing the same. You end up cultivating a culture of positive dialogue in the long term.
2. “May I revisit this decision with you for one moment?”
If something doesn’t feel quite right or something is being done in a hurry, this sentence provides room to revisit it without blame. It invites reflection and thoughtful discussion.
Used at the workplace:
When management suddenly changes the deadline of a project, for instance, say, “Let us pause and review the decision. I need to ensure we are on the same page concerning capacity and expectation.”
It shows you’re not a pushover, yet you’re a team player, the exact combination that assertive men and women seek. It makes people pause and reflect instead of pushing ahead. It also shows you’re interested in winning in the long run, not in short-term solutions.
3. “I don’t feel at ease with this, and the reason is.”
Straightforward, honest, and based on experience, this is one statement to use while setting boundaries. It is not aggressive, but honest.
Practicing it at work:
When your boss requests you to stay late without advance notice, speak by saying, “I don’t feel comfortable with this, and the reason is: I have other commitments, and this is not the first time this has happened.”
This is key in learning how to assert yourself and stand up effectively. It states your needs in such a way as not to insult the other person’s intention. Others, ultimately, will be aware of where your boundaries are and will respect them.
4. “I need time to think about it.”
You do not have to respond instantly to every challenge or appeal. The sentence provides you space to reflect or place constraints on impulsive decision-making.
Applying it in the context:
If cornered in the corridor or on Slack, reply, “I need time to think about this. Can I get back to you at lunchtime?”
This is one indicator that your opinion matters and you’re selective when you respond. It’s where you speak like a boss. It also means you’re professional and mature and less apt to end up being emotional or impulsive. Saying this line to practice makes you strategic in the long run.
5. “I appreciate the feedback, but this is my perspective.”
This sentence acknowledges contributions but also leaves you some space to express your personal opinion. It is handy when included in performance appraisals or peer reviews.
How to apply it at work:
When you are criticized as being “too quiet” during meetings, you can reply, “I value getting the feedback; this is my perspective. I am one who tends to listen first before contributing, but I am going to try to speak more going forward.”
It shows growth without conformity. It shows emotional intelligence; you’re receptive to other people while staying true to your internal style. You’ll form others’ perceptions of your work over time.
6. “I would prefer it we changed…”
Whether you are setting boundaries or seeking a better process, this line of dialogue opens negotiation.
How to use it in the workplace:
When your coworker keeps piling your plate with last-minute requests, tell him or her, “I would prefer such requests be made during our set check-in times so I can better manage my time.”
This is a basis on which to learn how to become assertive and cooperative. It is constructive and collaborative, and not defensive. It makes room for solutions being established through cooperation, and not through quiet resentment.
7. “Let’s clarify expectations.”
This is gold when deadlines or roles become ambiguous. Less miscommunication and stress are brought about by clarity.
How to practice it at work:
When a project starts to spin out of control, say, “Let’s get to the bottom of expectations. Can we establish who’s doing what, and by when?”
This type of talking prevents burnout and makes you appear proactive. It also demonstrates good management skills.
Good managers have a tendency to clarify expectations. It also alleviates tension down the line since it gets everyone on the same page in advance.
Why It’s Hard to Be Assertive in the Workplace
Let’s face it: it is not always easy to speak out at the workplace. Fear of being labeled as confrontational, which would damage relationships or even result in retaliation, deters many from speaking up.
According to a 2022 report, McKinsey discovered that only 32% of workers indicate that they feel entirely comfortable voicing a dissenting viewpoint during the meeting.
The reason behind such discomfort could be either toxic company culture, biased power structures, or past experiences. According to Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondson,
“Psychological safety is a belief that you won’t be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes”.
Without it, silence is used as a survival tactic. Understanding this history enables you to be gentle with yourself while you gather the courage to speak out. And once you do? These seven sentences we have mentioned will take you there.
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