Strengthening Assertiveness in the Workplace: 5 Proven Tips to Boost Your Confidence

Assertiveness is an essential skill for navigating the workplace effectively. It enables you to express your thoughts and needs clearly while respecting the perspectives of your colleagues, managers, stakeholders and clients.

Assertiveness in the workplace is not about being aggressive or passive; it’s about striking a balance that fosters respect, collaboration, and clear communication. Developing this skill will not only improve your confidence but also enhance your relationships with colleagues, help you to be more decisive and enable you manage difficult situations professionally.

In my Gravitas Masterclasses, I often begin by sharing a continuum I’ve created to illustrate what happens to us when we’re under pressure (see below). Maybe someone’s done something or said something that’s triggered us. In these circumstances, we’ll go into Fight or Flight, which influence where we go on the continuum, from Passive (in Flight) to Aggressive (in Fight) and everything in between. Becoming more aware of where you tend to go when triggered, as indicated in the top row of the image below, can help you to manage your emotions more effectively, and then choose how to communicate from the styles in the bottom row. For example, rather than Passivity, you can choose Stillness, or rather than becoming Passive Aggressive, you can tap into your Assertiveness.

Antoinette Dale Henderson’s Power Continuum©

Below I’ll share five key strategies I’ve found effective in building assertiveness at work—from gaining clarity on your role to refining how you use your voice. These tips will help you confidently articulate your ideas, set boundaries, and handle challenging conversations, in any workplace environment.

1. Start with a Clear Mind

If your ideas and objectives at work are unclear, you may come across as indecisive or unprepared. Clarity helps you present a confident, positive image to your team, managers, and clients. It also gives you the ability to articulate your position and respond thoughtfully in meetings or conversations.

From my experience in delivering assertiveness training, I’ve found that clarity often comes from understanding your role, goals, and values. These foundational elements help you stay grounded, even in high-pressure situations. Knowing what you stand for and what you aim to achieve will make it easier for you to assert your ideas with conviction, whether you’re leading a project or giving feedback.

2. Channel Your Emotions

In the workplace, emotions such as frustration, anxiety, or excitement can easily bubble up. Learning how to manage these emotions is crucial for maintaining professionalism and staying assertive without crossing the line into aggression.

Rather than suppressing or avoiding difficult emotions, practice sitting with them, identifying them, and responding appropriately. I’ve noticed that when participants in my workshops become more aware of their emotional triggers and learn to address them calmly, they develop a stronger sense of control. For instance, if you’re irritated by a colleague’s behaviour, allow yourself to feel that emotion, but pause before reacting. This will give you time to collect yourself, so that you can address the issue constructively, stating your concerns and suggesting a solution.

3. Take the Lead

Assertiveness in the workplace often requires stepping up and taking initiative. Don’t wait for someone else to give you permission to share your ideas or make decisions. Whether in a team meeting or during a one-on-one conversation, lead with your opinions and be open to inviting feedback from others.

I always encourage people on my courses to practice taking initiative in everyday situations. For example, if you’re notice an opportunity or challenge relating to a project, put yourself forward or offer a suggestion, rather than waiting for someone else to step in. This not only strengthens your assertiveness but also positions you as a proactive and dependable team member. Setting boundaries is another key aspect: assertively communicate your workload or time constraints when needed.

4. Use Your Voice

The way you speak can significantly impact how your message is received in the workplace. Engaging the power of your voice will help you be heard and respected by colleagues, managers, and stakeholders. This doesn’t mean speaking loudly, but rather using your voice with clarity, strength, and intention.

One of the most effective exercises I share in my Speaking with Gravitas Masterclasses involves using breath control to enhance vocal projection. Deep breathing is a great way to manage nerves and means you’ll be better able to maintain your volume throughout a meeting or presentation. Enunciating clearly and speaking at a measured pace also helps avoid the common tendency to rush when nervous. When making an important point, try letting your voice lower at the end of a sentence to project authority and confidence.

5. Choose Your Words

The language you use plays a significant role in how assertive you appear. Avoid filler words like “um,” “sort of,” or “I guess,” as these undermine your authority and make you sound uncertain. Similarly, refrain from using phrases that show doubt, like “I’m not sure if this is right” or “Does that make sense?”

During my sessions, I’ve helped many people replace these verbal habits with more intentional pauses and clear statements. This shift not only makes them sound more confident but also gives their colleagues and clients time to process their message. Preparation is key, and I often advise framing statements with clarity, such as: “This is important because…,” “The outcome I’m seeking is…,” or “What I need from this conversation is…” Keeping your points direct and succinct will help you assert yourself without over-explaining or diluting your message.

Next Steps

Difficult situations are inevitable in the workplace. Whether it’s negotiating a raise, managing a heavy workload, or handling conflict with colleagues, clients, or stakeholders, standing up for yourself is essential to long-term success.

In the workshops I’ve led, I’ve seen how embracing emotions, practicing vocal control, and taking initiative can empower you to communicate confidently and assertively. These strategies can transform how you engage with colleagues, clients, and managers, helping you gain the respect you deserve.

For more on assertiveness and maximising your potential, check out my book, Power Up or join me at one of our upcoming Gravitas courses for a truly transformative experience!