Last updated on Jun 29, 2024

Here's how you can enhance your leadership skills in a conference setting through assertiveness training.

Leadership and conferences go hand in hand, offering a unique platform to hone one's skills and assertiveness. Assertiveness training in a conference setting isn't just about speaking up; it's about communicating effectively, setting boundaries, and leading with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to be one, understanding how to assert yourself appropriately can significantly impact your influence and effectiveness. By engaging in assertiveness training at conferences, you can practice real-world applications of these techniques, ensuring that when the time comes to lead, you do so with clarity and poise.

1 Assertive Basics

Assertiveness is the balance between passive and aggressive communication, a skill crucial for effective leadership. In a conference setting, start by expressing your thoughts clearly and respectfully. Practice active listening and respond thoughtfully, valuing both your own perspective and that of others. By doing so, you establish a presence that commands respect without overpowering the conversation. Remember, assertiveness isn't about domination; it's about confident and positive interaction.

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Joy A. Reid, LPCC-S

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor
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"Read the Room"!!! It is helpful if you know their history to understand their perspective. We have to remember learning goes both ways so be in the spirit of receiving knowledge as well.

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Francesco Onorato

Director, Sales at CataBoom | Gamification, Loyalty, Promotions | CLMP™ | AI Prompt Engineer
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While assertiveness is definitely a needed trait in leadership, I think that being open and leading by example is an even better one—especially at conferences. Assertiveness is good for negotiation, in some aspect of interpersonal communication and leadership interactions. However, to succeed at conferences you need to be a magnet. And to be a magnet you need to balance the right (I'd say small) amount of assertiveness with a good amount of charisma, active listening skills and curiosity to learn from your fellow conference attendee.

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LaMetra Wagner B.A., M.S.

Talent Advisor, Petco. Visit careers.petco.com I Relationship Building Leader
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True confidence and assertiveness means owning your mistakes: -Explain what you learned from it. -Share how you intend to move forward.

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2 Body Language

Your body language speaks volumes about your confidence and leadership abilities. At conferences, be mindful of how you present yourself. Maintain eye contact, stand tall, and use open gestures to convey engagement and openness. Avoid crossing your arms or looking down, as these can signal defensiveness or lack of confidence. By aligning your body language with your message, you reinforce your assertiveness and enhance your leadership stature.

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3 Voice Modulation

The way you speak can enhance or undermine your assertiveness. In a conference, practice speaking with a clear, steady voice. Avoid uptalk, where your intonation rises at the end of sentences, which can make you sound unsure. Instead, use a firm yet friendly tone to assert your ideas. Modulating your voice to reflect confidence without aggression can help in persuading and leading others effectively.

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4 Conflict Resolution

Conferences often bring together diverse opinions, which can lead to conflict. Assertiveness training equips you with strategies to navigate disagreements constructively. Approach conflicts with a problem-solving mindset, focusing on the issue rather than personalizing the debate. Assert your views while being open to compromise and alternative solutions. This approach not only resolves conflicts but also earns you respect as a leader who can handle challenges diplomatically.

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5 Network Assertively

Networking is a key component of conferences, and assertiveness plays a pivotal role in forming meaningful connections. Approach new contacts with confidence, offer a firm handshake, and introduce yourself succinctly. Be genuinely interested in others by asking questions and listening actively. Assertive networking means being proactive in establishing contacts while respecting personal boundaries.

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Elena Bondareva

Lauded transformation expert. Strategist. Keynote speaker. Author. PhD candidate. Versatile scaling/early-stage executive. CEO: Vivit Group Worldwide. Director: Pollinate Group and BLOOM Workforce Development.
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Conference day(s) can be worth several “regular” days, so arrive rested, book a day off and 2 hrs of follow up after, and make a plan. Know who is (a) presenting, (b) attending, (b) sponsoring, and (d) organizing + make a shortlist of “must” and “would like to meet”. Next, get to know the staff; they’ll help you meet your shortlist. If speaking, frequent the speakers’ lounge and events! Importantly, connect on issues, be curious, and build rapport. As a default, reserve your pitch for the follow-up call! And meet as many people as you can manage. The better the conference, the more likely they are to be interesting/valuable. Importantly: networking is in the follow up. See more on that separately.

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6 Continuous Practice

Lastly, assertiveness is a skill that requires continuous practice, especially in dynamic conference environments. Take every opportunity to engage in discussions, volunteer for speaking slots, or lead workshops. Each interaction is a chance to refine your assertiveness and leadership skills. Reflect on your experiences, seek feedback, and be willing to adjust your approach for continuous improvement.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Elena Bondareva

Lauded transformation expert. Strategist. Keynote speaker. Author. PhD candidate. Versatile scaling/early-stage executive. CEO: Vivit Group Worldwide. Director: Pollinate Group and BLOOM Workforce Development.
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Following up is THE way to maximize benefits of attending or presenting at conferences, and yet rarely done! BEFORE: 1 Connect with ALL in speaker emails. 2 Send personalized LinkedIn invites to all on your shortlist. 3 Reserve 2 hrs within 2 days of the conference for follow-up. DURING: 4 Get as many cards as you can. 5 If scanning within LinkedIn app, take a photo/screenshot of their “card” or you may forget to follow up. 6 Note unique points of connection with all. 7 Connect with as many on your shortlist as possible, using the conference app if there. AFTER. 8 Follow up with ALL, on and off your shortlist, even if just, “It’s great to connect. Looking forward to witnessing your progress.” 9 Add ALL emails to your circulation list.

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Here's how you can enhance your leadership skills in a conference setting through assertiveness training.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assertive Basics

2 Body Language

3 Voice Modulation

4 Conflict Resolution

5 Network Assertively

6 Continuous Practice

7 Here’s what else to consider

Conferences

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Here's how you can enhance your leadership skills in a conference setting through assertiveness training.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assertive Basics

2 Body Language

3 Voice Modulation

4 Conflict Resolution

5 Network Assertively

6 Continuous Practice

7 Here’s what else to consider

Conferences

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