1. Ask for What You Want
The first and most impactful tip to improve your Executive Assistant salary is straightforward: if you don’t ask, you won’t get.
Many Assistants, myself included, were raised with the notion that hard work will eventually be noticed. However, this passive approach may not always yield results. Being vocal about your career goals and development is essential. Communicate with your Executive about your aspirations and expectations.
Your Executive may not always know what you want or expect in your career development. Proactively initiating conversations about your goals aligns them with your Executive’s expectations. While stepping out of your comfort zone can feel intimidating, asking for what you want increases the likelihood of receiving recognition and opportunities.
2. Be Proactive and Share Your Achievements
Being proactive is a hallmark of successful professionals, and it can significantly improve your Executive Assistant salary. A “show and tell” attitude is essential—don’t assume your good work speaks for itself.
In my experience, my Executive wasn’t fully aware of my contributions until I started sending weekly emails summarizing my achievements and the value I added to the role. While the initial response was minimal, over time, this consistent communication led to increased recognition and involvement in more projects.
Documenting your achievements in writing is invaluable during performance reviews. A record of accomplishments helps articulate your contributions and demonstrates your value. Don’t wait for others to notice—take the initiative to highlight your achievements.
