You're leading a large group discussion. How can you assert yourself without appearing too aggressive?

1 Set the Tone

As you begin the group discussion, setting the right tone is crucial. Start by clearly stating the objectives and the agenda, establishing a framework for what's expected from the session. Encourage openness and respect by modeling it yourself; speak confidently and listen attentively. By doing so, you create an environment where participants feel valued and are more likely to engage constructively. Remember, your role is to guide the conversation, not dominate it, so maintain a friendly yet firm demeanor throughout.

2 Establish Rules

To prevent the discussion from veering into aggressive territory, establish ground rules early on. These should promote constructive dialogue and discourage any form of disrespect or dominance. Explain that while all voices are important, interruptions and personal attacks are not permissible. Make it clear that you will enforce these rules to maintain a positive and productive discussion. This approach demonstrates your leadership without needing to resort to aggressive tactics.

4 Listen Actively

Assertiveness in facilitation is not just about speaking; it's also about listening. Show that you value participants' contributions by giving them your full attention and responding thoughtfully. Active listening involves acknowledging points made by others, asking clarifying questions, and summarizing their comments when necessary. This reinforces your leadership and ensures that everyone feels heard, reducing the need to be aggressive to make a point.