- POSTED IN: NATIONAL CEO NETWORK LINKEDIN GROUP
Drawing the line between aggressiveness and assertiveness is always a difficult proposition, whether you're managing a team or trying to advance in your career.
When you must take a stand, you may second-guess yourself: "Will I step over the line? If I do nothing, will I lose ground?"
You can walk the tightrope by increasing your people sensitivity and emotional intelligence.
Everyone admires assertiveversus aggressive people — those who put forth their needs and views confidently and directly.
They stand up for themselves without wielding a metaphorical weapon, and always consider the views of others.
Aggressive behaviors in theworkplace can sometimes look like the age of the Neanderthal — the ones with the biggest clubs grab the grub, have the best caves and swagger around thumping their chest.
These forceful managers or employees dominate others, and can sap morale by grunting just a few words, e.g., "I want this now." Ultimately the approach backfires. You can trust someone who is assertive. Not so much with an aggressor.
There are exceptions to the rule, of course. An aggressive, Type A personality in sales may be helpful, although there’s a limit there, too. "I’m not leaving until you buy these genuine ‘dinosaur eggs!’" doesn’t play well even with today’s audience.
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