Being assertive in the workplace is essential for effective communication and career success , regardless of gender . However , according to the web article by Culture Plus Consulting , “ the disconnect between leadership stereotypes and gender stereotypes creates unique challenges for women in the workplace .”
The article states that research has shown that women who adopt the same assertive behaviors typically expected from male leaders are likelier to be perceived as unlikeable . This “ assertiveness penalty ” is expected to result in the women being labeled the B-word ( you know , Bossy ). But is assertiveness bossy ? The critical characteristics of assertive people indicate otherwise . An Internet search on assertive behaviors results in keywords and phrases associated with good leadership , such as “ confidence ,” “ empathy ,” “ honesty ,” “ respect ,” and “ active listening .”
These characteristics are the foundation of healthy and collaborative relationships . Yet , despite this , women are still viewed less positively than men . The Culture Plus article indicates it may have less to do with assertive behaviors and more with how women are viewed because of stereotypes .
To sidestep the “ assertiveness penalty ,” the following adjustments to communication styles are suggested for women :
Eliminate Speech Patterns that Make You Seem Weak — Women often adopt speech patterns known as qualifiers ( just , maybe , I think , probably ) and permissions ( may I , sorry , excuse me ) to avoid appearing bossy . Instead , qualifiers paint the user as uncertain or weak . Replace Permissions with Framing Phrases — Researchers discovered that when women paired assertive statements with brief reframing phrases , the assertiveness penalty was reduced by 27 %. Framing phrases seek to cushion assertive statements without sounding weak . Here are examples of three types of framing phrases : Behavior : “ I ’ m going to express my opinion very directly ; I ’ ll be as specific as possible .” Value : “ I see this as a matter of honesty and integrity , so I need to be clear about where I stand .” Inoculation : “ I know it ’ s a risk for a woman to speak this assertively , but I will express my opinion very directly .” Combine Dominant Communication Behaviors with Communal Messaging — Research has shown that women who use strong speech , facial expressions , and body language are less likely to trigger criticism from men when they also display and communicate collaborative qualities most often associated with female stereotypes . Be Succinct — When men are verbose , it enhances perceptions of power and competence . However , the exact opposite is true for women who talk disproportionately longer than others in professional settings . The bottom line is to keep it simple and to the point . Develop an Aura of Warmth and Competence — Behavioral science research shows that leaders are judged on two key dimensions : warmth and competence , with women being disproportionately judged on the former . Behaviors such as sincere , friendly , and professional greetings and send-offs during business interactions can go a long way toward cultivating the image of a likable leader .
While societal stereotypes are slow to change , research shows that with minor changes to communication style , women can own their assertiveness without paying the price .
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20 NATDA Magazine www . natda . org