Assertive Interpersonal Skills

The programme duration is 2 days, offered in-house.

Purpose

The purpose of this programme is to equip delegates with a thorough understanding of assertiveness, how to behave with appropriate assertiveness in personal and business life, to identify personal development areas and to provide strategies to increase influence. This is aimed at people wanting to increase their levels of self-confidence and assertiveness within their personal lives as well as the business environment. The programme encompasses all the aspects necessary to communicate confidently, effectively and dynamically with co-workers and subordinates.

Target group

All staff. Delivery and content is adapted to the level and needs of the delegates. For maximum effectiveness, no more than 15 delegates are accommodated per programme.

Methodology

Our facilitators use PowerPoint visual presentations, international best practice videos, role-play, and case studies. The programme is participative. A certificate of attendance is awarded upon completion of the programme and assessment against SAQA Unit Standards can be arranged separately.

Objectives and outcomes of the programme

The programme takes delegates on a journey of self-discovery - to understand where they come from and why they deal with certain situations the way they do and to learn different ways of dealing with people and situations. It aims to equip learners with a fundamental understanding of:

• Improving self-confidence and building one's skills and competencies
• Healthy self-esteem: the foundation of assertiveness
• An understanding of assertiveness and practicing appropriate self-assertion
• Styles of communication, body language and dealing with criticism

Outline

Introduction: Personal and Social Competence

How it all began

Self-esteem - the foundation of assertiveness

Your belief system

The SOPI exercise

Assertiveness defined

Rate your assertiveness

Communicating assertively

Reading & understanding people

Identification of the basic personality styles and how they communicate

Assertiveness & responsiveness

Managing interactions with Personality Styles

Communication Styles

• Passive
• Aggressive
• Passive-aggressive
• Assertive

Characteristics & comparison

Verbal communication behaviour

Non-verbal communication behaviour

Assertive techniques

Handling criticism

Handling conflict

Exercises in handling aggressive behaviour

How to practice appropriate self-assertion

Conclusion

Case studies

Personal action plan