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Assertiveness is often mistaken for rude or boorish behavior. Still, true assertiveness is not aggressiveness, but rather the calm and respectful middle ground between being a bully and being a doormat.
The key to being assertive without antagonizing your boss is to express yourself empathetically through avenues the two of you would most likely agree on, such as your company’s mission statement, its stated objectives, or the exhibiting program’s goals. This shows you understand the challenge from the company’s — and hopefully her — perspective. Then, explain your ideas in a context of how they could fulfill those goals.
Being assertive can be intimidating, especially with bosses and co-workers. It’s a lot easier to hold your ground with a stranger because there are usually no long-term consequences to worry about. But remember: The more important the relationship between you and your boss is to you, the more critical it is to be assertive. Assertive behaviors lead to increased respect from others, as they identify you as a person who respects herself and her ideas.
If, in the end, your boss is looking for a “yes man” to agree with her every opinion, it’s up to you whether or not you’ll feel fulfilled in that role or if you should look for a position that more fully utilizes your potential.
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