Do you think "nice" is taken as a weakness in people who work for you??

Question

I am what you would call "nice" and I find that it doesnt seem to be working. in fact, the only time people do what I ask at work promptly is when I have a pmt edge and am more assertive. strangely,this is when I seem respected more, what do you think?

Answer 1

Absolutely. Try very nicely saying I would love to, can you just indicate which of these other items I should reprioritize to make room for that? I find respectfully making the managers manage, not just dump everything on those of us beneath them, can be done with a smile.

Answer 2

No. I think people just mistake "nice" for being non assertive. You can be nice and still command respect and be assertive.

Answer 3

There was another open question a bit ago

"What's the problem with being feared???"

My answer was:

"You're either feared or respected

I don't think you can be both

Personally I would rather be respected.

That way when you give instruction you know that it will be followed in a positive way rather than negative."

People need direction and I don't think it's a problem with being nice. You're right with the problem being lack of assertiveness. It possible to be both assertive and "nice".

It's smart to keep emotions and facts seperate.

Fact is work needs to get done and the employees need to follow.

Answer 4

I agree but not only people who work for you but people in general. I suppose most people would label me a nice guy but when you are in a position of authority you have to maintain assertiveness. I don't think being assertive has to mean that you are not nice. When I was first put in an authoritative position at work I saw that I had to make sure that people knew there were consequences to not doing what I asked.

Naturally, people are going to test a person and see how far they can push.

Answer 5

yep you are right...nice is one thing being stepped on is another...take power when necessary but show compassion when needed