Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book begins with a refresher on assertiveness skills, and then moves into the personal skills needed to navigate successfully through a career in the caring professions. It summarises basic assertiveness skills, and how to apply these in difficult situations, including information on giving constructive, kindly and clear feedback to staff in challenging circumstances, and managing conflict and disputes. The book explores how to use assertion skills to develop professionally and personally. It looks at using assertiveness in planning and managing life to help make it stress free through goal setting and time and change management. The book is an essential tool for all health and social care workers aiming to understand more about how manage themselves and their communication partners: their colleagues in health, education, social services, local government.