In speaking to my clients and peers, I’ve found that many of us are quite humble in the workplace. We take pride in our work and we’re not one to boast or brag. Also, we’re not as quick to take credit for our contributions.
Humbleness definitely has its place. However, because our ideas, opinions and work is often diminished in the workplace, we have to find a balance by being more assertive.
► How many times have you shared an idea only for someone else to take the credit?
► How many times have you raised a valid point only for it to be given no consideration?
This is where assertiveness comes into play. It looks like inserting “I” language into your communication. At first it may seem unnatural, like overkill but it’s very necessary when you desire to be heard in the workplace. Not to mention taken seriously.
It sounds like this:
✓ This is the solution that I would suggest. What are your thoughts?
✓ During my code testing today, this is what I found. These are the remediation actions that I took.
✓ I was able to correct the problem. This is how I fixed it…
✓ I’m very experienced in this area. Here are some examples of how I’ve handled similar cases in the past.
This type of communication makes it clear what you do and how you work. It not only establishes you as the expert, but it also communicates in a way that can’t be easily dismissed. It allows others to see your contributions.
The truth is that we contribute a lot in our roles. We’re often the silent worker bee’s keeping things up and running. Also, we serve in very instrumental positions within the organization.
We need to be able to confidently communicate our ideas, opinions and knowledge. It’s not about bragging or being arrogant. It’s about ensuring that the value you bring is known.
Practice being more assertive in your role so that there is never any question about your expertise or your contribution!
Make it clear what you contribute by asserting your ideas, opinions and knowledge.