When we hear the terms assertiveness and empathy, we often think of them as concepts with little in common.n. While we see empathy as the quality of being other-oriented and focusing on other people, assertiveness seems to us to be almost the opposite, a way of focusing on oneself and one's own needs and desires.
But in reality are by no means opposing ideas, Moreover, they are often associated with great leaders and good colleagues, people with a special sensitivity and ability to read themselves and others.
And it is that, beneath the surface, assertiveness and empathy share similar features. Both seek to foster human understanding, allow for the recognition of another person's thoughts and feelings, and encourage respect and consideration. in relationships.
Isn't that what you want for your company? Do you have professionals in your team who stand out for their assertiveness and empathy?
Assertiveness is the quality of being self-confident, confident and direct in asserting one's rights or presenting one's point of view, without aggression and with respect. In other words, it consists of express themselves effectively, being respectful of others' personal boundaries and emotions.
Assertiveness and empathy coincide precisely in that, in the need to understand what others think and feel.
This skill is part of the definition of empathy, as it is the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and vicariously experiencing the feelings, thoughts and experiences of another, whether past or present, without the need for these to be obvious or explicitly communicated.
Assertiveness without empathy leads to conflict with followers and damaged relationships, while empathy without assertiveness is weak and undermines a leader's position.
Assertiveness and empathy are very beneficial for the organisation. and, as such, should seek to develop in all its members.
From personnel selection to training processes, assertiveness and empathy must be considered as objectives, if you want to ensure a harmonious workplace where there is no room for conflict.
For the leader, it is essential to have both in order to be able to guide more effectively, transmit messages, achieve enthusiasm, achieve commitment and resolve even the most complex situations, assertiveness and empathy are also needed in other positions and areas of the business.
An example would be sales, where you need to understand the customer's situation and communicate closely with them, addressing the issues that are important to them.
This dual capacity, assertiveness and empathy, the ability to redirect and adapt any communication The two key competencies of influence, leadership and sales are two of the key competencies of influence, leadership and sales.
Although both can be worked on and developed, it is important that organisations, right from the recruitment stage, focus their search on candidates who excel in a combination of the two.
Do you have the right talent in your company?
