EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

If you have followed us for any length of time, you know how much we value the Executive Assistant role within an organization. We think it is often an undervalued role and we are here to set the record straight! 

As a leader, why is an EA important to your success?

Your EA (may we add, the RIGHT EA) should act as the yin to your yang, bringing a different perspective and skill set to the table. 

  1. Balanced Decision-Making: Your strengths may lie in big-picture thinking, while your EA's attention to detail ensures that nothing falls through the cracks. They should also look for pitfalls in the plan (that is a true superpower!)

  2. Effective Communication: A leader may be visionary but not detail-oriented, while an EA excels at translating the vision into actionable steps and facilitating seamless communication. Plus the act as a second lens with any important communication. 

  3. Time Management: A leader often juggles numerous responsibilities, and an EA can be the master of time management, ensuring that every second counts. Pro tip- if you are open to a remote person, find someone in a different time zone. It’s a true expansion of your day. 

  4. Resilience: A leader may take calculated risks, and an EA can provide a cautious counterbalance to ensure the organization's stability. #findthepitfalls

  5. Strength in Delegation: Effective leaders understand the importance of delegation. Your EA should be a proficient delegator, enabling you to focus on strategic matters. They may also tell YOU what to do and we are here for it?

  6. Stress Management: When the going gets tough, your EA can offer emotional support, maintaining calm in challenging situations.


When you are looking for this addition/asset to your team, think through these things:

  1. Self-Awareness: Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses as a leader to identify areas where you need support.

  2. Role Definition: Clearly outline the responsibilities where you need your EA's contrasting skills and abilities.

  3. Opposite Qualities: During the hiring process, look for candidates whose qualities complement your own.

  4. Interview Insightfully: Use interviews to gauge how well a candidate's qualities match your needs and organizational culture. Or use a recruiting firm (cough cough, CMC) to screen for that and to help you with the right questions to ask in your interviews. 

  5. Collaboration: Foster a collaborative and open working relationship, where both your strengths and your EA's strengths shine.

Here’s to finding the Yin to your Yang!