It depends on what you mean by “assertiveness”. On a broad reading of the word, there is basically no sharp distinction between assertiveness and just plain meanness, rudeness or even manipulation—it really all depends on how broad your “comfort zone” is! A strict reading of “assertiveness” would require markedly higher standards which cross into negotiation skills, such as being pointedly aware of other parties’ positions and interests, and perhaps expressly acknowledging them. This meaning tends to be more commonly used these days, especially in combination with other useful skills such as confidence and independence.
It depends on what you mean by “assertiveness”. On a broad reading of the word, there is basically no sharp distinction between assertiveness and just plain meanness, rudeness or even manipulation—it really all depends on how broad your “comfort zone” is! A strict reading of “assertiveness” would require markedly higher standards which cross into negotiation skills, such as being pointedly aware of other parties’ positions and interests, and perhaps expressly acknowledging them. This meaning tends to be more commonly used these days, especially in combination with other useful skills such as confidence and independence.