Workshop On Assertive Communications

OBJECTIVES:

At the end of the 2-day workshop, the participants will be able to:

• identify their patterns of communication: assertive, non-assertive, or aggressive.
• acquire the tools & techniques that would increase their comfort with and use of assertive communications & behaviors.
• demonstrate assertive communication behaviors in a variety of situations.

WORKSHOP OUTLINE:

DAY 1:

I. Introduction:

1. Expectation setting
2. Workshop objectives, outline & methodology
3. Self-assessment: “How assertive are you?”
   (Identifying your communication pattern)

II. Basic Concepts:

1. Definition of assertion
2. Differences between assertion, non-assertion, & aggression
3. Value of being assertive
4. Characteristics of assertive personality
5. Assertive rights
6. Barriers to becoming assertive

III. Critical Tools for Assertiveness:

1. Self-image & assertiveness

• The Role of self-esteem in being assertive
• Johari Window
• Understanding yourself & others

2. Active Listening

• The language of assertiveness
• Non-verbal assertiveness: The role of body language

3. Effective questioning/asking techniques

DAY 2:

IV. How to be Assertion:

1. Types of assertion
2. Three parts of assertive intervention
3. Assertion techniques

• Negative assertion
• Negative inquiry
• Fogging
• Broken record

V. Application of Assertiveness Skills: Role Play/Critique

1. Making requests
2. Giving one’s opinions/standing up for oneself
3. Accepting compliments
4. Giving & receiving feedback
5. Giving constructive negative feedback
6. Coping with criticisms
7. Saying “no” without guilt
8. Dealing with anger
9. Dealing with conflict

VI. Integration

1. Development Plan for Assertiveness
2. Program Evaluation

METHODOLOGY

The workshop will use a combination of the following training & learning methodologies: lecture, self-diagnostic instruments, group discussions, case studies, and role play sessions with critique.