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Red Bluff Daily News - Women In Business -Wednesday, October 23, 2019 - 5 Moule's Tehama County Glass 's M Lic.#397314 Visit our large showroom 515 Sycamore St., Red Bluff (530) 529-0260 Mon-Fri 8:00-5:30, Sat 9:00-2:00 3rd Generation Glass Business Full Service Glass Company Specializing in Auto • Residential • Commercial www.moulesglassredbluff.com MOULE'S GALS Serving Tehama County for over 40 years Liz, Julie, Kathleen & Dawn Learn how to be more assertive in the workplace Gender equality in the professional arena has come a long way in the 21st century. But while great strides have been made over the last two decades, women still face challenges unique to fe- males as they look to es- tablish themselves profes- sionally and advance their careers. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women still earn roughly 80 per- cent of what men are paid in the same positions. Professional women often must walk the thin line be- tween being too nice or too aggressive, a pressure not often faced by men. Asser- tiveness is an art for both genders, and women can take steps to be more as- sertive without giving the impression they're ruffling feathers. • Be confident in your speech. It is easy to fall into "weaker language" habits when advocating for an idea. If unsure about the reaction to a proposal, you might say, "I think this is a good idea" or "I believe this will impart change." More assertive language is to simply stand behind the point: "This is a good idea." Confidence can go a long way. • Allow people to dis- agree. It is acceptable for others to disagree with you. This can lead to dis- cussion and an opportunity to present evidence why something should be done in a certain way. It also en- ables you to point out the strong points in their argu- ment. Listening to all ideas can sway people in your favor, even if they don't necessarily agree with all you believe in. • Be proactive and fu- ture-oriented. This is espe- cially pertinent when asking for raises or promotions. Explain to a boss how you respect yourself and that your work merits the right compensation. Point out clearly defined future goals and successes you've had that warrant consideration for higher pay. • Don't fear conflict. Conflict doesn't have to be confrontational, espe- cially when respectable language is used and ev- eryone is allowed to voice their opinions. Conflict can inspire great change. And remember, while you need to have solid relationships with coworkers, they do not have to be your best friends. Assertiveness in the workplace can help female professionals achieve their goals and showcase their value.

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