If you're a regular follower of the Financial Bookworm, you will know that I have examined a range of potential solutions to common business and personal development problems that are prevalent across the Caribbean. However, having carefully considered their implications, have you ever dismissed them after concluding they may take too long to implement, or are simply too ambitious? If so, the 'Teach Yourself in a Week' series, published by Hodder Education, which includes the titles 'Successful Job Applications,' and 'Successful Key Account Management', may be just what you've been waiting for.
Their latest addition is 'Successful Assertiveness in a Week', by executive coach and leadership development specialist Dena Michelli. The author presents an ambitious and highly motivational seven-day program, with each self-contained chapter covering a different aspect of assertiveness. For example, Sunday is about exploring different communication styles; Tuesday is about dealing with the negative and becoming comfortable with saying no, and Friday is about the messages you convey through body language.
However, don't worry if the schedule is not to your liking, because as you do become more assertive, you can arrange a day off. One illuminating section of the book helps you identify whether you're a passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive or assertive personality. Michelli then offers advice on how to deal with colleagues who may fall within these categories, as each requires a customized approach. Ultimately, the 128 pages of 'Successful Assertiveness' can be distilled into three main points: 1. Understand yourself (your values and beliefs) 2. Know yourself (your wants and predispositions) 3. Value yourself (your confidence and rights). Master these three steps, and according to Michelli, "you will be well placed to make choices on how you wish to be perceived and plan your career."
Personally, I would add another key benefit of being assertive as the ability to confidently present your viewpoint, whilst ensuring a win-win outcome. This is a crucial skill for anyone who wants to advance their career in these challenging times. To conclude, 'Successful Assertiveness in a Week' is a valuable confidence-building tool for anyone whose key aim is to be more confident, happier and ultimately more productive in their personal and professional life.
Who knows, it may even result in being able to get your viewpoint understood at home by your partner and children - now that's an ambition worth having! o 'Successful Assertiveness in a Week' by Dena Michelli . Published by Hodder Education and available from www.Amazon.com. o Keith Appleton JP, BA (Hons), N.Dip.M, MInstLM has extensive experience within an academic, managerial and strategic leadership role. He is a member of the UK Institute of Leadership & Management and can be contacted at KeithAppleton@Hotmail.co.uk.
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