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-assured; it is having confidence and being direct in claiming one's rights or presenting one's viewpoints, without aggression and with respect. In other words, it consists of To express oneself effectively, while being respectful of others' personal boundaries and emotions.
Assertiveness and empathy coincide precisely on that, on the need to understand what others think and feel.
This ability is part of the definition of empathy, as it is the action of understanding, being aware of, being sensitive to, and indirectly experiencing the feelings, thoughts and experiences of another, whether from the past or present, without them needing 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 staff selection to training processes, assertiveness and empathy should be set as objectives, If one wishes to guarantee a workplace where harmony reigns and there is no room for conflict.
If for a leader it is fundamental to have both in order to guide more effectively, convey messages that achieve enthusiasm, gain commitment, and resolve even the most complex situations, Assertiveness and empathy They are also necessary in other positions and areas of the business.
An example would be sales, where it is necessary to understand the customer's situation and communicate with them in a close manner, addressing the issues that are important to that person.
This dual capacity, assertiveness and empathy, the ability to redirect and adapt any communication Addressing the needs and interests of listeners, and then encouraging them to act, are two of the key competencies for influence, leadership, and sales.
Although both can be worked on and developed, it is important that organisations, right from the recruitment phase, focus their search on candidates who excel through a combination of the two.
Do you have the right talent in your company?
