COSERE | 75 Previously, the capacity of an individual’s communication style to affect a much larger dynamic than a single interpersonal relationship was briefly touched upon, demonstrated by its influence in families and workplaces, for example. In such groups as these, or any group setting which involves several individuals, assertive communication can be especially valuable as a method of promoting open and honest discussion and creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Perhaps most importantly of all, however, is the dramatic reduction in resentment that it is capable of achieving. Resentment is a slow-burning and dangerous threat to healthy relationships, and by promoting an environment of honesty, its potential to cause harm can be greatly reduced. Furthermore, assertiveness in groups helps each individual to maintain a balance between giving and receiving, ensuring that nobody’s contribution feels underappreciated or overrepresented. Developing one’s assertiveness skills can be a challenging prospect, but the many rewards speak for themselves. Once you start practicing assertiveness, you will notice that your relationships become much healthier and perhaps even stronger, not only in the workplace but also in your personal lives. In Unit 2, we will advance our discussion to include some key advice on improving in this crucial area of self-development, including recognising and making use of nonverbal cues, and how to combine assertiveness with the concept introduced in the previous subtopic: active listening. • Peer Discussion: We now invite you to reach out to your peers in education for a short discussion. What are everyone’s professional experiences with different communication styles? What advantages do you associate with one particular style over another? Should most professional settings have a mix of communication styles, or would it be preferable for everyone to be an assertive communicator? • Body Language and Tone: The importance of nonverbal cues in assertive communication.
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