How to be a Good Manager to an Executive Assistant
We recognize the relationship between an Executive and their support professional is essential to productivity and the success of the business. An Executive Assistant (“EA”) transcends the role of a mere supporter; they become deeply woven into the professional and personal realms of the Executive they support. An EA has critical influence, shaping the Executive's day to day professional operations. Here we discuss insights into how to cultivate a mutually beneficial partnership founded in respect and understanding.
It is critical to understand the dynamics of the Executive and Executive support professional partnership. Executives may not always recognize how their actions, attitudes, preferences, and directives affect their assistant's life and career. Everything from the Executive’s scheduling demands to their communication approach can directly impact their assistant's effectiveness, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.
For an Execute, focusing on retention for a great EA is crucial for long-term success in this type of partnership. The role of an EA is central to many leaders’ operational success. High turnover in this position can disrupt the continuity of support, erode accumulated institutional knowledge, and diminish trust, all of which are essential for a seamless executive-Assistant collaboration. Each assistant must adapt to the leader’s specific work style, preferences, and expectations—a constant rotation of new assistants can severely interrupt this adaptation process, leading to inefficiencies and lost opportunities for deeper collaboration.
To address this, it is imperative for executives to prioritize creating a supportive work atmosphere that values the assistant's contributions, maintains open and respectful communication, and offers constructive feedback that aids in their professional development.
By emphasizing retention through empathetic leadership, thoughtful management practices, and continuous development opportunities, executives can foster a stable and enriching partnership with their assistants. Such stability is crucial for building a foundation of trust and dependability, which are the hallmarks of a successful executive-assistant relationship.
Understand the Unique Relationship:
Recognize the distinct and critical role an Executive Assistant plays in the fabric of an Executive's life. Assistants are not merely affected by the typical professional demands of their roles but are uniquely influenced by the personal nuances of their executive ranging from their energy and communication style to their expectations and individual preferences. It is critical for executives to fully acknowledge and appreciate the substantial impact their actions and demeanor have on their assistants, both professionally and personally. This awareness is the foundation of a respectful and empathetic management approach, ensuring a productive and steady working relationship.
Clear and Consistent Communication:
A common misstep in the executive-assistant dynamic is the assumption that the assistant can intuitively understand and anticipate the executive's needs from the outset. This expectation is unrealistic and can lead to misunderstandings and frustration on both sides. It is essential for executives to remember that, despite an assistant's expertise and adaptability, they are not mind readers. It takes time, context, experience to get to that level of mindmelding together. To build a strong foundation in this critical partnership, executives must commit to providing clear and consistent instructions, offer insight, context, and the thoughts behind decisions. Especially during the initial few weeks, when the assistant is still acclimating to the executive's work style, preferences, and priorities, detailed guidance is crucial. This period allows the assistant to gradually develop a deeper understanding of the Executive's expectations and how they operate on both professional and personal levels.
Regular and explicit communication not only helps prevent errors and align efforts but also fosters confidence and competence in the assistant’s role. By articulating needs and expectations clearly, executives empower their assistants to perform tasks accurately and efficiently, which in turn enables them to begin anticipating needs more effectively as their familiarity with the executive's expectations grows. Ultimately, this approach not only smooths the path for current projects but also strengthens the overall partnership, paving the way for a more intuitive and proactive working relationship as the assistant gains insight and confidence over time.
Regular appreciation: Regularly express gratitude for your assistant's efforts. They often accomplish many (hundreds, thousands!) of tasks, asks and responsibilities correctly that go unnoticed, while mistakes, however rare, are highlighted. Regular acknowledgment when things are going right, well, great - can significantly boost morale and loyalty.
Scheduled check-ins: Establish a routine of regular check-ins to discuss upcoming tasks, feedback, and any issues. This structured communication helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures both parties are aligned on expectations.
Healthy boundaries: Respect your assistant’s time off. If possible, avoid contacting them outside of work hours unless truly necessary. Consider using tools like delayed email sending, Loom, or Google Docs for non-urgent communications and to transfer thoughts, ideas and asks, acknowledging through these practices that their time away from being tied to their phone, desk and the office is respected.
Avoid micromanaging: Give your assistant the space to perform their duties without constant oversight. Trust in their abilities and avoid micromanaging, as it can diminish trust and inhibit their potential to excel. Of course, with any new EA, it will take time. However, micromanaging an assistant can be the death-sentence to a great working relationship and the potential for them to thrive and show their dynamic and empowered abilities.
Professional development and training: Invest in your assistant's professional development. Provide training opportunities to enhance their skills and efficiency. This not only improves their performance but also shows your commitment to their career growth.
Personalization of tasks: Allow your assistant some leeway to complete tasks in their own way. This encourages innovation and shows trust in their judgment and abilities, often leading to better results and job satisfaction.
Open communication channels: Encourage open dialogue about one another’s expectations and experiences. This fosters a transparent and supportive environment where both the Executive and the assistant feel valued and understood.
The relationship between an Executive and their Executive Assistant is not just about managing tasks—it's about building a partnership that extends beyond mere transactional interactions to one of mutual respect, understanding, and shared goals.
Successful executives understand that their EAs are invaluable allies in their professional landscape, capable of enhancing efficiency, stability, and even morale within the company. By adopting a leadership style that values empathy, clear communication, and genuine appreciation, executives can cultivate an environment where EAs feel supported, valued, and motivated to contribute their best. Ultimately, such an approach doesn't just benefit the assistant; it creates a ripple effect of positivity and productivity that enhances the entire organization, from the Executive outward. This dynamic, when nurtured with intention and respect, can transform the conventional boss-assistant relationship into a powerhouse duo that drives both personal and organizational success.
Other Posts You’ll Love: