As an Assistant, supporting your Executive’s goals is a central part of your role. However, it’s equally important to ensure your Executive recognizes your contributions, champions your success, and supports your professional growth.
How can you ensure your Executive is invested in YOUR success? This article explores strategies for building a strong partnership with your Executive and crafting the narrative of your professional career path.
The worksheet gives you 20 ideas to elevate you in the Assistant role.
You’ll find many practical tips and tricks to equip you with the skills to manage expectations, effectively communicate, and build strong relationships with your Executive. This resource is perfect for any Assistant looking to unlock their full potential and make a measurable impact on their team.
Understand Your Executive’s Goals and Priorities
To gain the support of your Executive, you must deeply understand their goals, priorities, and vision.
- Communicate regularly to clarify objectives and expectations.
- Ask for feedback to ensure your work aligns with their needs.
- Keep track of short-term actions (e.g., meeting deadlines) and long-term goals (e.g., implementing new systems or processes).
When your Executive sees that you understand their priorities and anticipate their needs, they will trust you more and view you as essential to their success. Staying organized, proactive, and well-informed will strengthen this trust.
Additionally, staying updated on industry trends allows you to provide valuable insights, showing your Executive that you understand the broader context of their goals.
Be Proactive and Go Above and Beyond
Don’t wait for tasks to be assigned—anticipate your Executive’s needs and offer assistance proactively.
- Volunteer for additional projects.
- Identify and resolve issues before they escalate.
- Stay informed about industry trends to bring fresh ideas and creative solutions.
Utilize tools like project management platforms (e.g., Trello or Monday.com) or communication tools (e.g., Slack) to streamline workflows and improve efficiency. Proactive efforts show your commitment to adding value and make you an indispensable partner.
Communicate Your Achievements
Keep your Executive informed of your contributions and successes. Share updates on:
- Completed tasks.
- Successful projects.
- Positive feedback from colleagues or clients.
Highlight how your work aligns with your Executive’s goals and contributes to the organization’s success. This not only reinforces your value but also positions you for future opportunities like promotions or involvement in high-profile projects.
Regularly sharing your accomplishments demonstrates accountability and ensures your efforts are recognized and appreciated.
Seek Feedback and Act on It
Regular feedback from your Executive is vital for personal and professional growth.
- Use feedback as an opportunity to refine your skills and address areas for improvement.
- Show your Executive you value their advice by taking actionable steps based on their input.
- Ask questions to gain deeper insights into their expectations and experiences.
Feedback is a two-way street—don’t hesitate to ask for guidance or clarification. This shows you are committed to growth and fosters mutual respect.
Build a Trusting Relationship
Trust is the foundation of a successful Executive-Assistant partnership.
- Be reliable and dependable, meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality work.
- Handle confidential or sensitive matters with professionalism and discretion.
- Show genuine interest in your Executive’s opinions and perspectives.
By building trust and rapport, you create a strong working relationship that encourages your Executive to champion your success within the organization.
Communicate Your Career Goals
Be transparent about your career aspirations. Discuss your long-term goals and seek your Executive’s advice on how to achieve them.
- Express interest in taking on additional responsibilities or pursuing professional development opportunities.
- Ask for their mentorship or guidance on advancing your career.
Executives can provide unique insights, mentorship, and opportunities to help you reach your goals. Open communication demonstrates your commitment to growth and positions you as a motivated, driven professional.
Foster Collaboration and Teamwork
Adopt a collaborative mindset, showing your Executive you’re open to different perspectives and enjoy working as part of a team. Flexibility and a willingness to adjust your approach to suit the needs of the group demonstrate your value as a team player.
Demonstrate a Positive Attitude and Professionalism
Your attitude and professionalism significantly influence how your Executive perceives you.
- Maintain a positive, solution-oriented mindset, even in challenging situations.
- Handle conflicts with tact and grace.
- Exhibit integrity and respect in all interactions.
Consistency in your attitude and professionalism will earn your Executive’s respect and ensure their ongoing support.
Building a Champion for Your Success
Ensuring your Executive champions your success requires mutual trust, clear communication, and a strong understanding of each other’s goals. By taking proactive steps, sharing your achievements, and fostering collaboration, you can build a partnership where your Executive becomes a key advocate for your professional growth.
Take the Next Step in Your Career
Ready to position yourself as a strategic partner to your Executive? Enroll in the Strategic Business Partner Online Course through The EA Campus. This course will equip you with the skills and strategies needed to enhance your role, strengthen your Executive relationship, and achieve professional success. Start today and elevate your career!