Warning

• While you can use these techniques on authority figures, such as police officers and military officers, know where to draw the line. Arguing too much on the spot can backfire, even if you have a good case.
• In confrontations especially, emotions can run high. Remember to be respectful and keep a cool head.
• The key to success in confrontations is to use an appropriate tone of voice and the correct words. Speak to someone like you would like to be spoken to!
• Assertiveness is not always practiced in a balanced way, especially by those new to the process. Many people, when trying out assertive behaviour for the first time, find that they go too far and become aggressive. So if it's possible, in the beginning, become a part of an assertiveness or communication skills group
• Try asking first; don't demand things right off the bat. Gather information and make the other person an ally. If that approach doesn't work, then you may put your foot down. Rule out miscommunications first; make sure the person actually slighted you, and knowingly, before you come out with guns blazing.