Asserting is a generous thing to do because it gives other people something to work with. Even if someone disagrees with your assertion, you’re adding value because it helps your team come to a better understanding of the challenge or proposed solution.Insights are a dime a dozen. Suggestions are a bit better, but still let you off the hook. Assertions are the realm of professionals who navigate ambiguity and rigorous thinking.

Don't just ask questions. Professionals and A-players ask great questions, then assert how to answer those questions too. They don't claim to know everything, but they do have a point of view about how to solve the problem they just presented.