Want to take on more responsibility, become more strategic, or implement changes in your role? The key to success is framing your request as a business case, focusing on the benefits to your executive and the organization—not just what’s in it for you. By demonstrating business acumen and aligning your proposal with company priorities, you increase the chances of getting buy-in and positioning yourself as a strategic asset.
Tag: Career Growth
From ‘Just an Assistant’ to Strategic Partner: Shifting Your Mindset for Success
Feeling overlooked and frustrated in your role as an assistant? The first step to change starts with you. Shifting from a reactive to a proactive mindset, aligning with your executive’s goals, and thinking strategically can transform how you’re perceived. This article explores key mindset shifts and practical steps to help assistants become valued members of the core business. Ready to step out of your comfort zone and take charge of your career? The magic happens when you do.
Why Assistant Training Matters: The Top 12 Most In-Demand Skills
Many organizations underestimate the need for specialized training for assistants, assuming basic software courses are enough. However, the role is evolving rapidly, requiring skills like leadership, AI tools, project management, and financial acumen. This article highlights the top 12 most requested training areas for assistants in 2024 and offers guidance on how to request professional development opportunities. Ready to elevate your skills? Now’s the time to invest in your growth.
Embracing Change: The Key to Thriving as a Modern-Day Assistant
The administrative profession is evolving rapidly, and those who embrace change will thrive. While some assistants resist these shifts, hoping to stay in their comfort zones, the reality is that adaptability is key to staying relevant and impactful. From moving beyond reactive tasks to mastering new technologies, every change presents an opportunity for growth. Let’s support each other through this transformation—share your stories of adaptation, success, and resilience. Together, we are shaping the future of this
From Support to Strategic Partner: Embracing the ‘Us’ Mindset
Want to be seen as an administrative business partner instead of just ‘support’? Shift your mindset from ‘Them and I’ to ‘Us and We.’ Successful organizations recognize that EAs are crucial partners in achieving business objectives. By working with your executive rather than for them, you build trust, enhance communication, and contribute strategically. The result? Greater impact, professional growth, and a stronger, more respected partnership.
Take the Risk: Asking for More Authority in Your Role
Are you holding yourself back from stepping into more responsibility simply because you haven’t asked? Fear of rejection or feeling ‘above yourself’ can stop you from unlocking new opportunities. But growth happens outside of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to ask for one thing you’ve hesitated to request—you might be surprised by the doors it opens.
The Missing Piece: Why EAs Must Be on the Org Chart
When administrative professionals are left off the org chart or positioned incorrectly, it diminishes their visibility, value, and career progression. This oversight sends a message that their role is less important, impacting recognition, inclusion, and access to opportunities. It’s time to ensure EAs and administrative professionals are properly represented—because visibility matters.
Breaking Free from Outdated Perceptions: Why the Title ‘Assistant’ is Holding Back Talented Professionals
In a viral post that has captured the attention of over half a million people, Candice Burningham sheds light on the outdated and demeaning perceptions surrounding the title of ‘Assistant.’ As the role evolves, many professionals are still shackled to a status that treats them as subordinates rather than strategic business partners. Burningham highlights a glaring issue: while assistants provide critical business support, their titles and roles continue to be undervalued, often relegated to menial tasks or seen as a mere status symbol. It’s time to dismantle these archaic views and elevate the role to reflect the true business value Assistants bring to the table—strategic thinking, operational leadership, and high-impact decision-making.
Redefining the Role: How Administrative Professionals Can Shift from Reactive to Proactive
While visiting India, I discovered a role that commands deep respect in many companies—the Learning and Culture Secretary (LCS). These professionals play a crucial part in onboarding, training, and integrating new employees, ensuring a seamless transition into the workplace. Their proactive approach made me reflect on how administrative professionals are often perceived as reactive rather than strategic. In reality, our role involves foresight, planning, and enabling organisational success. How can we shift this perception and showcase our true impact? Tomorrow, I’ll share 10 ways to help redefine our profession’s value.
Earn the Right to Expand Your Role: Master the Basics, Then Prove Your Value
When looking to expand your role, trust is the key factor. During a recent discussion with a CEO and his Executive Assistant, the CEO expressed frustration over assistants trying to redefine their roles too soon. But the real issue isn’t ambition—it’s timing. If you master the tasks you were hired to do first and then demonstrate clear value in taking on more, no manager will object. The key is to frame your contributions around the benefits to the business, not just your own growth. Show measurable impact, and opportunities will follow.