Why Industry-Specific Experience Isn’t What Makes a Great EA

Administrative Profession Culture & Events Strategic Business Partner January 22, 2025

I recently saw a post from an EA who was getting increasingly frustrated with the fact that so many job advertisements for roles in the administrative profession are demanding industry-specific experience.

It struck me because this is something I hear all too often from incredibly talented EAs who have worked across a wide range of sectors.

Here’s the thing: being an administrative professional is a specialisation in itself. It’s not about the industry you work in; it’s about the skills you bring to the table—skills that are transferable across any sector. Communication, organisation, emotional intelligence, problem-solving, and strategic thinking are just a few of the core strengths that great EAs possess. These are the skills that make a difference, regardless of whether you’re supporting executives in banking, tech, healthcare, or any other field.

What employers need to recognise is that hiring an EA with a wealth of experience in different industries can actually be a huge advantage.

Adaptability is a major strength in this profession.

Learning the nuances of a specific industry can be taught, but the ability to manage stakeholders, organise complex schedules, and leverage a powerful network is something that comes from years of experience honing those skills.

An EA who has worked across multiple sectors brings fresh perspectives, broader insights, and often an expanded network that can open doors for the business.

They can bring innovative solutions, new contacts, and valuable approaches to problem-solving that might not exist in a more siloed, industry-specific candidate.

So instead of looking for someone who has spent their career in one particular industry, consider the value of a truly skilled EA who can hit the ground running, adapt to new environments, and offer unique insights. The administrative profession is about so much more than being industry-specific—it’s about being a strategic partner, no matter the context.

We need to start recognising the full potential of EAs, and appreciate the wealth of experience they bring to the table, from whatever industry they’ve come from.

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