Applying the principles of assertive communication in organizations is essential to strengthen internal communication and build healthier teams. Understanding personal communication styles and their impact on employees’ daily lives can lead to a positive change in organizational climate and culture.
Personal communication styles and their importance
In this article, we review personal communication styles, the importance of assertive communication, and its connection with key processes of corporate and internal communication.
How do we communicate in our day-to-day work?
We know that healthy and constructive communication is vital for the functioning of work teams. No one would disagree with this in any type of organization. However, when we take a closer look at the daily reality in many companies, we find some concerning data.
For example, some statistics published by Pumble indicate that
up to 86% of employees at all levels cite lack of effective communication as one of the main reasons for breakdowns in work dynamics.
On the other hand, in an article published by Preply, we find that
83% of Americans are affected by passive-aggressive emails from coworkers.
In this context, identifying communication styles becomes essential. Promoting assertive communication is an effective way to reverse these situations, strengthening relationships within the organization and positively influencing the work environment.
How to recognize personal communication styles
Passive communication style
People with this style rarely express their opinions. They usually go along with what others say and seldom create conflict. They might come across as submissive or even dominated by others on the team.
Aggressive communication style
These individuals are fully convinced of their own opinions and points of view. As a result, they disregard the ideas of others. They communicate confrontationally and aim to shut down dialogue and collaboration.
Passive-aggressive communication style
These individuals are uncomfortable expressing their opinions directly. They prefer to avoid doing so and often fear rejection, which leads to frustration. Therefore, they express anger or disagreement indirectly. Instead of openly confronting, they use sarcasm, evasiveness, or prolonged silence.
Assertive communication style
This style is clear, direct, and respectful. People who communicate assertively can express their feelings and needs clearly. They strike a balance between standing by their ideas and considering others’ perspectives.
What happens when we communicate in a passive-aggressive way?
Let’s focus on this communication style, as surveys—like the one conducted by Preply with 1,000 people in the US—reveal alarming data:
passive-aggressive communication among coworkers leads to 23% of job resignations.
As the name suggests, the passive-aggressive style combines traits of both passive and aggressive communication. What’s important to note is that it always happens indirectly.
People who use this style avoid open confrontation. Instead, they communicate in contradictory or manipulative ways. For example, they express discomfort through sarcasm, irony, or “jokes” that aren’t actually funny.
Common causes of passive-aggressive communication
Difficulty expressing emotions due to insecurity or fear
Frustration channeled through covert behaviors
Behavior that appears indifferent but reflects resistance or disapproval.
Frequent traits
Use of ambiguous or double-meaning phrases
Sarcasm or ironic humor to criticize without taking responsibility
Avoidance or lack of commitment to tasks they don’t want to do
Victim-like behavior or silent resentment
Denial of anger, even when it’s obvious (e.g., saying “I’m not mad, why would I be?”)
What is assertive communication and how does it promote nonviolent communication?
At Oxean, as an agency specialized in corporate and internal communication, we understand the importance of avoiding passive-aggressive communication and promoting an assertive style. This style is based on mutual respect and clarity, which facilitates dialogue and collaborative construction.
Assertive communication in organizations
Essential characteristics of assertive communication
Clarity: ideas and feelings are expressed without ambiguity, detours, or “double meanings”
Mutual respect: built on dialogue and equality between people
Emotional responsibility: communication is in first person (“I feel,” “I need”), avoiding blame, generalizations, or vagueness
Consistency between verbal and nonverbal language
Cooperative mindset: replacing competitive communication (arguing to “win”) with constructive dialogue
Use of nonviolent communication principles
How assertive communication connects with internal communication
Assertive communication dynamics are essential to an organization’s internal communication. Let’s look at some key internal and corporate communication processes related to assertiveness:
From the very first step in strategic internal communication—diagnosis—we can identify whether communication problems exist within teams and whether assertiveness needs to be encouraged as part of the organization’s culture.
The ability to listen without judging or reacting confrontationally is part of assertive communication. For this reason, it is critical to generating high-quality internal communication.
Having effective internal communication strengthens team leadership. Here, too, assertive communication offers a powerful tool for leaders across departments.
These are two moments where people’s sensitivities can be triggered, and conflict can arise. Managing these conversations assertively becomes an irreplaceable resource.
These are just a few examples. What truly matters is understanding that effective internal communication is greatly enhanced when communication between people is assertive, based on dialogue, and aimed at team collaboration.
If you’re concerned about your team’s communication dynamics, at Oxean—as a corporate communication agency with a focus on internal communication—we invite you to meet with us to co-create the strategies your organization needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How can I tell if my team has a passive-aggressive communication problem?
Some signs are constant evasiveness, sarcasm in messages, frequent misunderstandings, or prolonged silence. These behaviors often create tensions that directly affect team dynamics.
Can internal communication improve only by applying assertiveness principles?
Assertive communication alone is not the only solution, but it is a powerful foundation. It enables clear dialogue, reduces conflicts, and strengthens trust within teams.
What common mistakes block effective feedback within teams?
One of the most common mistakes is giving feedback without empathy, at the wrong time, or with ambiguous messages. Not actively listening to the other person also plays a big role.
Why do many corporate cultures normalize dysfunctional communication styles?
Because operational efficiency is often prioritized over relational well-being. In addition, many companies lack training in communication styles and do not promote safe spaces to express themselves.
How can you detect if a leader needs to improve their communication style?
If the team avoids direct contact, shows low motivation, or turnover is high, it can be a clear sign. Another indicator is when two-way communication based on trust is not achieved.
What indicators show that internal communication is not effective?
Disinformation, rumors, contradictory messages, or low engagement are evident signs. So are lack of alignment between areas and the constant repetition of key instructions.
How can assertive communication be adapted in environments with strict hierarchies?
It’s important to adjust tone without losing clarity or respect. Using professional language, showing openness to dialogue, and being consistent between words and actions is key.
What is the relationship between assertive communication in organizations and employee engagement?
Assertive communication creates safe environments where people feel heard and valued. This increases their commitment, motivation, and willingness to contribute with greater enthusiasm.
