I’ve always been way too passive, but now that I’m starting my career I can see it could be a huge roadblock. Any tips on how to be more assertive in the office?

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So great you already recognize this about yourself because you can start working on it now! Passive and advertising aren’t a great combo for account management - I know this from experience. Force yourself to be more assertive in conversations every day - even if it feels unnatural and awkward. You can still be polite while being assertive. Assertive does not = asshole.

Be clear about the objective of a meeting, outline next steps and what’s expected of each party, and make sure everyone has what they need to do the work from the get go.

The more you practice the easier it becomes! You will thank yourself bc client and creative interactions (all agency interactions, really) are much more effective when you’re assertive.

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^ on point. I had same problem. Still do, but ive gotten better. Be confident not arrogant. Be assertive not overwhelming. Be known as the person who knows what they sre doing. Even when you don't, be aware, positive, resourceful, and just someone anyone can approach.

Most of the time people don’t even know what’s going on. If you’re the only account person in the room, take the reins and show you’re responsible and also damn good at your job!

I was very passive and even submissive as a junior account person. Didn’t find my voice or the confidence to speak up and say no for a while. I regret not pushing forward and trying harder earlier on bc practice does make perfect. I wasn’t raised to be assertive so it was so foreign to me. Almost felt wrong and definitely unnatural. But the more times you overcome that nervous feeling before speaking up, the easier it becomes. Think about how you would speak to your sibling, and vocalize in that more confident comfortable tone.

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