The past two or three decades have seen enormous changes in how most organisations function. Elaborate hierarchies have been simplified and flattened. Initiatives such as re-engineering, ‘just-in-time' total quality management, and the use of project teams have made once-rigid structures much more fluid and flexible.
Head counts have been cut, putting those who remain under increased pressure. Markets have become more competitive and customers more demanding. For many of us the pace of work seems relentless.
Those who attend the Straight Talking program will be able to:
• Understand what assertiveness is, and the advantages it has compared to submissive or aggressive behaviour
• Recognise and apply three important principles of assertive behaviour:
1. Being honest about what is relevant
2. Sticking to the bottom line
3. Negotiating as equals
• Devise an Action Plan to improve their ability to behave assertively