When I was in college at Mississippi State University, I majored in international business. The program was a big part of why I chose Mississippi State, as it gave me the opportunity to graduate with both a business degree (B.B.A. in International Business with a marketing emphasis) and a degree in a foreign language (B.A. in Spanish.) One of the final requirements for the program was to take a special class the semester before my internship. It was focused mostly on how to prepare for an interview, resume writing skills and the art of the thank you letter. It was tremendously helpful in providing guidance on some of those subtle things that can help make you stand out from other applicants – and ultimately get you hired.
What they didn’t teach me though was something I learned on my own almost immediately – the value of being assertive. Over the years and in many various ways I’ve seen it prove to be crucial in making your way through the door of a new employer, to land a promotion or in a number of other ways. In this recent interview I did with Carrie Kerpen for Forbes, I share a couple of stories highlighting moments where being assertive helped to change the direction of my career.
I am a stay at home mom now but I was an accountant and financial analyst with three college degrees. I agree being assertive is a key element in getting in the door and working your way up.
This is key for women! And also very tricky, because there’s such a fine line between being perceived as assertive and bitchy. 😫 It’s great that you’ve found the right balance.
Interesting perspective, any time I tried to be more assertive, it backfired on me. (,probably should have been assertive instead of a people pleaser from the start. 🙂
I think being assertive in the business world works so well. When you know what you want go after it and don’t take no for an answer. I think people will respond positively if you take this attitude.
I have always found being assertive works best in my career. I think if you know what you want or want an assignment then go for it and don’t take no for an answer.
It is a great trait for women in business. I was often called pushy or demanding, but I never asked any more than what a man did. Being woman leader in a profession that is mainly women is tough.
I agree that it is super important to be assertive in business, especially as women. I have a degree in legal studies, and I have found that being confident and assertive has really helped me when it comes to interviewing.
I am always appreciative of any tips to be a stronger voice in my work, without looking like a jerk or “big boss” or anything negative. I enjoyed the interview!
Such a key for women, great video and totally agree
I really like your approach. It was a good idea to find the right background and to continue to pursue it.
What a wonderful interview. I think its truly important for women to be assertive because life tends to pull us in many different directions and its important for us to show our skills and resilience . I love how your assertive nature has opened up doors for you! You sound fearless. I love that! Thank you for sharing about your experiences… so inspiring!
I couldn’t agree more. I think its really important to remain really assertive no matter what your chosen path it. I really enjoyed this interview!
Thanks so much, Jeanine. Really appreciate that!
This is key for women. We aren’t always taught the importance of standing up and speaking up for ourselves. We think we have to be nice and sweet, but that can cause us to get passed over and overlooked.
This is so true! I appreciate it’s all about balance, but have definitely learned no one is going to help you own your career like yourself.
This is something that I have struggled with my entire adult life. I don’t want them to think me meek but I’m afraid of coming off like a b-word. I know that I need to be more assertive, but in degrees.
Being assertive is something that I’m still struggling with. I always begin to second-guess myself.
I was in the financial field for many years. You had to be assertive as there were so many men in that office.
As a journalist working for corporate america throughout the years, being assertive has helped me gain respect throughout the office. It’s what we need as women, since we’re always looked down on.
I really struggle with being assertive. I wish it was something I could change. I know I am missing out on a lot because of it too!
I’ll agree, being assertive is so important! I like to think I’m assertive, although some may disagree! I loved the video.