Lesson 2: Assertiveness
F. Making Assertive Requests
After going through this page where we
discuss "The S-I-F-T Method," review the
previous section. Take a look again at the
three upsetting situations you wrote about
and see how you could put The S-I-F-T Method
to use in those situations. Really
use each component of the method and read
them aloud as if you were talking to another
person.
| An Assertive
Request |
Tactic: Empathetic opener. Letting the person
know you are aware of their situation
and that you empathize.
|
Example: I
realize you have a lot of people to
manage and details to attend to as
our supervisor. I really want to make
your job easier and for us to work
well together. That's why I need to
talk with you about something that
has been on my mind.
|
The S-I-F-T Method
Using The S-I-F-T Method involves:
S = SITUATION |
Tactic: State the specific situation
that was upsetting to you and the
behavior you want to address.
Example: Yesterday when you gave
me my assignment and I asked for
some additional information you
told me that you didn't have time
to discuss it. |
I = "I" FEELING |
Tactic: State exactly the feeling you
bad then.
Example: I
felt angry and frustrated. |
F = FUTURE NEEDS |
Tactic: Let the person know your current
and/or future expectations of them
or the situation.
Example: I expect my charge nurse
to give me the information I need
to provide good patient care. In
the future, if I am asking for information
and it's not a convenient time for
you to respond, please just let
me know what time would work for
you |
T = THE POSITIVE
OUTCOME |
Tactic: Let the person know what you
imagine the positive outcome to
be if your request was responded
to in the future.
Example: If you did this, I feel
we will be able to work better together
and the patients will get the best
treatment possible. |
Factors to consider before deciding to
be assertive:
- Forethought given
to appropriateness of situation.
- Components
are not to be used in isolation, but
in conjunction with proper planning,
decision-making skills, and effective
communication.
- Consider
manner, tone, body language, and
preparation done in advance.
- Say what is comfortable
and right for you.
From Developing
the New Assertive Nurse by Gerry Angel, Diane Knox Petronko
Congratulations! You've finished
Lesson 2 and identified ways to become more
assertive. Next, we'll talk about criticism,
morale, and stress reduction.
Next
Lesson | Return to Top |
