Transcript
0:00 So, another thing to keep in mind when we're thinking about the assertive voice is the difference in a command and a request. When you're giving an assertive command, this is an expectation you hold. And many times when we give a a command, we follow it with thank you or we'll say please go line up at the door and then we say thank you. So, it's confusing. What it says is when we say please go line up at the door, we open the door for a power struggle because our communication is not clear. An assertive command here is the expectation.
0:40 Just do it. The appropriate time to use please and thank you is when it's a request that we're making for ourselves. Please pass me the salt. Thank you. Or please take this and put it over in the green box. Thank you. If it's for you, something you're requesting that's for you, please and thank you are appropriate. But in the South, a lot of times we've taught please and thank you as something that we just use all the time because it helps pad the delivery.
1:16 And in actuality, the assertive voice and the assertive command is not a time where we open the door for please and thank you because it's very confusing. It confuses the message and it opens the door for a power struggle.
Summary
- An assertive command conveys a clear expectation without ambiguity.
- Using "please" in commands can create confusion and potential power struggles.
- "Please" and "thank you" are appropriate in personal requests but not in assertive commands.
- Cultural norms, such as in the South, may promote excessive politeness that undermines assertiveness.
- Clarity in communication is essential to avoid misunderstandings and maintain authority.