So what are the simple rules of how to be assertive? There are three parts to being an assertive communicator, and all three parts must be used, in order to be effective. The three parts to assertiveness are: Say to the person what you don’t want, using the word “I.” Say to them how it is making you feel. Say to them what you do want, using the word “I.” To help to convey your message you can also add that you would like to be heard uninterrupted and you can state the facts as you see them. It always helps to thank the person for listening.