A passive-aggressive communicator lacks consideration of others’ rights, needs, and feelings. Assertive communicators are honest and direct with their thoughts and feelings. They respect others’ feelings, ideas and needs. Although the assertive communication style is one that builds trust and long-term relationships, sometimes other communication styles are warranted to handle specific situations that undermine the safety and welfare of others.
When Sailors and Marines bring up issues or have questions, we must listen and respond with positive and productive feedback, not ignore their communication efforts. On the other hand, feedback or constructive criticism must be welcomed to adjust our thought processes and change our behavior. Self-Evaluate and Self-Correct: What Communication Style Are You? Princeton University identifies four common communication styles: passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive and assertive.1 Someone who passively communicates does not express feelings or needs. They defer to others to make decisions to avoid tension and conflict. Being passive can lead to misunderstandings, built-up anger, and resentment. Aggressive communicators express feelings, needs, and ideas at the expense of others. They can become defensive or hostile during confrontation. They will often alienate and hurt others but can meet needs quickly. A passive-aggressive communicator can appear to be passive but will randomly act out in anger. They will try to control others using sarcasm and indirect communication while trying to avoid conversations.
Being assertive is recognizing a problem and having the courage to speak up about it while offering solutions. A person who is assertive emanates confidence and good judgment. An assertive person does the right thing the first time every time and maintains positive connections while communicating clearly in the organization. An assertive individual gains credibility and builds trusting relationships, establishing an open line of communication. Being able to openly communicate issues helps to promote a safe and productive work environment. A safe and productive work environment builds assertive warfighters. An assertive Sailor lives by and represents the Navy core values of honor, courage, and commitment.
Footnotes 1. Princeton University. “Understanding Your Communication Style.” Princeton.edu, 2019, umatter.princeton.edu/respect/ tools/communication-styles.
The Maintainers of HSM 79 in Action By LT Eric "Schneebly" Jensen, USN, HSM-79
Members of HSM-79 embarked on USS Roosevelt (DDG 80 perform maintenance on the bomb rack of an MH060R. The photos were taken by AMC (AW/SW) Matthew Connoly, USN.
AE2 Nguyen and AO2 Vallecabrera
AEAN Neely, AD1 Swartz, AE3 Rice, and AOAA Mendoza
AT2 Rojas, and AT1 Logsdon 31
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