AI and the Art of Influence

“Who even has a one-on-one Executive Assistant these days?” That quote, pulled from a 2023 Wall Street Journal article, echoes a common belief: that executive support roles are becoming redundant thanks to AI and automation. But that narrative doesn’t hold up. 

In truth, the administrative profession is not only alive but rapidly evolving. Executive Assistants are no longer limited to calendar management and travel bookings. They’re stepping into roles that demand strategic thinking, tech fluency, and leadership. Those who embrace change, lead themselves proactively, and harness new tools like AI are not being replaced, they’re becoming indispensable. 

AI Isn’t a Threat - It’s a Tool 

Let’s address the elephant in the room: AI is changing how we work. But it’s not here to take your job. It’s here to enhance it. Administrative professionals are among the fastest adopters of AI tools, according to Microsoft and LinkedIn. From summarizing meetings to prioritizing emails and managing documents, AI saves time so Assistants can focus on high-impact tasks. 

Think of AI not as autopilot, but as a co-pilot. You’re still in control, it just helps you do more, faster. In fact, 77% of companies are either using or exploring AI tools, and Executive Assistants are often leading adoption on the ground. 

Time Management = Strategic Impact 

One of the most powerful contributions EAs make is managing executive time. You’re not just scheduling; you’re protecting your leader’s most precious resource. Every five-minute gain you create translates into measurable business value. This is not administrative busywork, it’s strategic impact. 

The Role Is Shifting 

LinkedIn reports that Assistants are doing 30% more strategic work now than they were just three years ago. Whether it’s leading projects, analyzing data, or advising on decisions, today’s EAs are taking on work that directly contributes to organizational goals. 

But here's the truth: influence isn’t handed to you. It’s earned. And earning it starts with self-leadership. 

What Self-Leadership Looks Like 

Self-leadership means taking ownership of your development and direction. It looks like: 

• Aligning your work with your executive’s priorities
• Anticipating needs instead of reacting 
• Streamlining processes and recommending tools 
• Investing in skills like AI, communication, and strategy 
• Speaking up with clarity and confidence 

Know Where You Are And Where You’re Going 

The Global Skills Matrix, developed by the World Administrators Alliance, lays out four levels of assistant work: from reactive task execution (Level 1) to strategic business partnership (Level 4). Wherever you are, you can advance - but you need to know where you stand. 

Assess your current skills. Set goals. Make a plan. That’s self-leadership in action. 

AI as Your Advantage 

Yes, AI can be intimidating. But it’s also an opportunity. The 2025 ASAP State of the Profession Report shows that Assistants are prioritizing AI skills, particularly in workflow automation and research. Why? Because these skills future-proof your role and boost your visibility. 

McKinsey research shows that workers spend nearly 20% of their time looking for information. AI can cut that in half. That time savings opens the door to better decision-making, creativity, and collaboration. 

Influence Comes From Impact 

You don’t need a new title to have influence. You need: 

• Confidence in your value 
• Clarity in your message 
• Credibility through consistency 
• Connection across your organization 

Assistants have always had influence. But now the spotlight is finally catching up. With the right mindset and tools - especially AI - you can step fully into that role. 

This Is Your Moment 

Ask yourself: 

• What does the next version of me look like? 
• Where can I grow my influence today? 
• What skill will take me further this year? 

You don’t need permission. You just need purpose. 

Because influence isn’t given. It’s claimed.