InterviewMe.pl conducted a survey involving 492 employees to examine assertiveness in the workplace. Participants were first asked if they considered themselves assertive, followed by a hypothetical situation where a supervisor requests a task outside their duties, lacks time, or seems overwhelmingly difficult. The analysis aimed to compare the employees' self-assessment of assertiveness with their actual responses in challenging circumstances.

The findings show a notable distinction between self-identification and behavior; while 55% of respondents regarded themselves as assertive, a mere 12% could refuse a task under pressure from a superior. Instead, the most common responses were compliance despite reluctance (27%), providing explanations for the difficulty yet proceeding with the task (26%), and feigning ease with the situation (24%). This indicates that although many Polish workers perceive themselves as capable of asserting their rights, practical enactments of this assertiveness are limited.

This survey sheds light on the psychological and cultural factors influencing workplace behavior in Poland. The disparity suggests a challenge in cultivating a genuinely assertive workplace culture where employees feel empowered to express their limits. As organizations evolve, understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering healthier work environments that respect individual boundaries and promote well-being among employees.