Content

What does being assertive mean? You might associate it with being firm, forceful or especially confident. Yet assertiveness can be quiet, warm and thoughtful. It involves expressing your position clearly while giving the other person's needs and perspective proper consideration.

Part of the Communicating with Confidence series, this video explores assertion, passivity and aggression through recognisable workplace conversations. You will consider how these behaviours affect an exchange, how emotions and assumptions can shape your response and what helps you communicate effectively in your own voice.

Whether you tend to hold back, agree while leaving concerns unspoken or become more forceful than you intend, you will find practical approaches to try. These include raising concerns, discussing priorities, maintaining realistic limits and speaking up with someone senior.

Reflection questions, short activities and a downloadable handout help you apply the learning to situations of your own.

What you will learn

By the end of this video, you should be better able to:

  • Recognise assertive, passive and aggressive communication, including when delivery disguises the underlying behaviour.
  • Clarify your own needs and explore the other person's situation with interest and empathy.
  • Distinguish observations from assumptions and notice how emotions influence your interpretation.
  • Express a concern or request clearly and discuss realistic options.
  • Respond assertively to different behaviours, including pressure or personal remarks.
  • Choose a manageable situation and a technique to practise.

Who this is for

Anyone who wants to communicate more assertively at work. It is relevant whether you tend to hold back, put pressure on others or want to maintain an effective approach in more demanding situations.

The examples primarily reflect UK workplace settings and Western communication traditions, with recognition that cultural expectations and relationships influence how communication is understood.

Course format and resources

A video with workplace examples, reflection questions and opportunities to pause and practise. Includes a downloadable assertiveness handout to support preparation, rehearsal and review.

Further learning and support

Continue your learning with the other videos in the Learning Hub's Communicating with Confidence series. If you would find further support helpful, discuss coaching with us to explore your communication patterns and practise situations you find difficult.

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Developed by

Professional Coach Sarah Jaggers

With over 20 years’ experience as an Executive Coach and Business Psychologist, I’ve helped senior leaders navigate complex challenges, lead with clarity, and drive meaningful change. My work blends psychological knowledge, leadership theory, and real-world experience, offering practical tools for lasting impact. I have an academic background in psychology, occupational psychology and business, including a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, MSc in Occupational Psychology and MBA. These self-paced online programmes bring that expertise to a broader audience. Designed for independent learning, they offer a powerful resource for reflection, growth, and purposeful leadership. One-to-one coaching is also available for deeper support.