Ensure Every Task You Do Is Necessary
Every organization has strategic priorities and goals. Your tasks should align with these objectives. Before accepting a task or project, ask yourself:
- Does this task align with my Executive’s goals, team objectives, or the organization’s strategy?
If the answer is no, reconsider whether it’s worth your time. Tasks disconnected from strategic goals are less likely to be seen as valuable or rewarded.
Speak Up in Team Meetings
Often, an Assistant’s work is only visible to their Executive and not to the broader team or department. Even those you closely support may not fully recognize your contributions. Use team meetings as an opportunity to share your work. Explain how your efforts impact your Executive, the team, and the organization.
Build a Strong Relationship with Your Executive
Your Executive should be your biggest advocate. They need to see the value you bring and understand how your work supports their objectives. Regularly communicate what you’re doing, how it aligns with their goals, and how it moves their priorities forward.
Don’t Immediately Volunteer for Non-Promotable Tasks
Many Assistants are natural people-pleasers, eager to help those around them. While this is admirable, it’s not always strategic. If you’re frequently asked to take on invisible work, resist the urge to say yes immediately. Instead, respond with, “Let me think about this and get back to you in 24 hours.”
This approach gives you time to evaluate whether the task aligns with your career goals or workload. Remember, every task you take on requires time and energy that could be spent on more visible work.
Evaluate the Benefits of Invisible Work
Before taking on a non-promotable task, weigh the benefits. Ask yourself:
- Will I learn something new?
- Will this task benefit my career or skill development?
- Does it provide a safe space to learn, grow, or even fail (and learn from that failure)?
If the task offers tangible benefits, it may be worth accepting.
Request High-Visibility Projects
If your workload consists largely of invisible or non-promotable tasks, ask for more visible assignments. Use your track record of successfully completing projects to demonstrate your ability and request opportunities to take on work that is more aligned with strategic goals.
Making your invisible work visible takes intention and effort, but it’s essential for gaining recognition and advancing your career. By aligning your work with organizational goals, communicating your value, and strategically choosing tasks, you can ensure your contributions are both seen and appreciated.
Ready to take the next step in elevating your career? Enroll in The Assistant Mindset Online Course. This course is designed to help Assistants develop the skills and strategies needed to thrive in today’s workplace, ensuring your work stands out and makes a lasting impact. Start today!
