Tips for Assertive Communication with the 7Cs

Assertive communication is an essential skill for success in any area of life, whether personal or professional. Being able to express ideas and feelings clearly, respectfully, and effectively can avoid misunderstandings and strengthen relationships. To achieve assertive communication, it's key to apply the 7Cs model, which establishes fundamental principles for an effective message. In this blog, we'll explore each of these keys and how to use them to improve our communication. What are the 7Cs of Communication? The 7Cs of communication are a set of principles that help guarantee that a message is clear, concise, and effective. These are: Clarity Conciseness Concreteness Correctness Coherence Courtesy Credibility Now let's see how to apply each of these principles to achieve assertive communication. 1. Clarity: Express your message without ambiguity Clarity is essential for the receiver to understand the message without effort. To achieve clarity: Use simple and direct language. Avoid technicalities or complex words if they're not necessary. Structure your ideas logically. Reformulate your message if you notice the other person doesn't understand. Example: Instead of saying "It is imperative to optimize our strategies to improve organizational performance," you could say "We must improve our strategies so the company performs better." 2. Conciseness: Get to the point without beating around the bush Being concise means expressing the message in the briefest way possible without losing clarity or meaning. To do this: Avoid redundancy and unnecessary information. Use short and direct phrases. Don't repeat ideas unnecessarily. Example: Instead of "Due to the fact that the meeting was carried out in a very prolonged manner, we couldn't discuss additional points," you could say "The meeting was long and we didn't get to discuss other points." 3. Concreteness: Use data and examples A concrete message is one that offers specific details and avoids vagueness. To achieve concreteness: Use precise examples and data. Avoid generalizations. Give relevant and easily verifiable information. Example: Instead of "The report has errors," you could say "The report has three errors in the conclusions section." 4. Correctness: Use appropriate and precise language Correctness refers to the message being free of grammatical and content errors. To guarantee this: Review spelling and grammar before sending a message. Use appropriate language for the context and audience. Make sure the information is correct and up to date. Example: An error like "We has received your request" can make the message lose credibility. Instead, use "We have received your request." 5. Coherence: Maintain a logical thread A coherent message is one that has a logical structure and where each idea connects with the next. To guarantee coherence: Order ideas logically. Use appropriate connectors (therefore, however, additionally). Avoid abrupt jumps between ideas. Example: Instead of "Today we'll talk about effective communication. Last week was the conference. There are several important strategies," you could say "Today we'll talk about effective communication. Last week, at the conference, we discussed important strategies that we'll address next." 6. Courtesy: Use a friendly and respectful tone Courtesy is key to avoiding conflicts and maintaining harmonious communication. To achieve it: Use a positive and friendly tone. Avoid aggressive or imposing phrases. Show empathy and consider others' points of view. Example: Instead of "I need you to deliver the report now because you're late," you could say "I would really appreciate if you could send me the report as soon as possible, as we're against time." 7. Credibility: Build trust with your message A credible message is one that inspires confidence and security. To increase your credibility: Use data and reliable sources. Speak with security and conviction. Respect facts and avoid exaggeration. Example: Instead of "Everyone says this product is the best in the market," you could say "According to a study by University X, this product has been rated as the best in the market." What to Consider? Assertive communication is a powerful tool that facilitates healthy relationships and avoids misunderstandings. Applying the 7Cs will allow you to express yourself clearly, effectively, and respectfully in any situation. Whether at work, in the family, or in daily life, mastering these principles will help you improve your interactions and achieve better results in your communications. Start practicing the 7Cs today and you'll see how your communication becomes more assertive and effective!