Assertiveness skills: Leaders ‘are able to stand up for their own rights’ and others (Hughes, Ginnett & Curphy 2015, p. 291). Their assertiveness skills help them ‘knowing where and when not to behave assertively (Hughes, Ginnett & Curphy 2015, p. 291). Assertiveness skill incorporates conveying open, ‘direct and frank statements’ of one’s feelings to others (Hughes, Ginnett & Curphy 2015, p. 292). Leaders who are not assertive enough can run the risk of becoming victims of the Abilene paradox (Harvey 1974, cited in Hughes, Ginnett & Curphy 2015, p. 293).