STRATEGIES FOR ASSERTIVE STYLE OF COMMUNICATION

STRATEGIES FOR ASSERTIVE STYLE OF COMMUNICATION

(1) Creating the right first impression

A speaker is judged in the first two or three minutes. It is, therefore, imperative for the speaker to have a very well rehearsed opening of the presentation. If the good impression already exists, no major effort may be necessary. However, it is not desirable to take things for granted; good speakers have a good collection of opening statements in their repertory.

(2) Clarifying and building image of the goal

Always start with end in view. You cannot go wrong if, from the beginning, speaker shares with the receivers the goal or the purpose or the ultimate finishing point. It helps developing a rapport with the listeners. A quick indication of the road map en route may further invoke interest and make it easier for the audience to understand the message. Some deviations are always possible and sometimes, are even welcome!

(3) Making purposive statements

The goal should serve as a flag under which the participants can rally when the things are not smooth. It helps the speaker to bring discussions back on track and in reckoning; it is always welcomed by the audience. They link well with the ultimate destination and prevent derailing of your line of thought.

(4) Using clear and lucid Language

An assertive speaker is direct and straight. He has the capability to hold the listeners spell-bound or in a trance willing to do his bidding. Use of clear, lucid and winning words that are couched in phrases the listeners are familiar is very rewarding.

(5) Speaking with empathy

Experience confirms that „how‟ of the message is more important than „what‟ of the message. The body language is critical – good posture, eye contact and good voice modulation adds confidence and truthfulness to the speakers‟ statements. The level of confidence that the speaker exhibits is very infectious.

(6) Paraphrasing

From time to time, the speaker should repeat the important part of the message as it keeps the attention of listener focused on the point. It avoids any of the listeners losing track of the subject. Simultaneously, speaker should ask questions to ensure audience participation.

(7) Maintaining listeners‟ interest

The speaker applauds good answers from the audience and makes positive gestures when listeners have grasped the idea or concept. He keeps them involved about the next step on the road map to the finish and readies them for receiving the message by telling listeners about its importance.

(8) Collecting feedback

„Feedback is the breakfast of the champions‟. If you want to be a champion speaker then, it is absolutely essential to be sensitive to the feedback from the audience. Active participation by the receivers is very desirable. Ideally, the feedback is more than the body language that they show – they way they move forward or backward on their seats, the way they yawn and they way they twitter their fingers are cues and clues that will never tell lies but if these are supplemented by comments / suggestions