Lack of assertiveness, confidence, and interpersonal skills is a major obstacle to success and job satisfaction. Assertiveness is a critical trait for supervisors, managers, and anyone with authority over others. Assertiveness is simply the ability to stand up for yourself without stepping on anyone else’s toes. It is the ability to ask for what you want, to say “no” to protect your time and resources, and to deliver messages that might make others uncomfortable but nevertheless need to be said. Those who can assert themselves communicate more confidently and clearly, enjoy more fulfilling relationships with others, and are more effective at work.