Managing Colleagues Who Bypass You to Get to Your Executive

Do They Know What You Do?

Often, colleagues who bypass you are not trying to be difficult. They simply don’t know what you do or understand how much value Assistants bring. This is especially true if they don’t have an Assistant themselves.

If a colleague clearly doesn’t understand they should come to you first, a friendly reminder may be all that’s needed. It’s best to handle this in person.

The next time they bypass you—whether by showing up at your Executive’s office unannounced or emailing your Executive directly—take the opportunity to explain your role. Make it clear that you manage your Executive’s schedule, which is a complex job with many moving parts. Let them know they need to check with you first before taking up your Executive’s time, as you have the full picture of your Executive’s priorities.

Approach the conversation with openness to maintain a positive working relationship. Many colleagues bypass Assistants because they’re unsure if their message will be delivered. Assure them they can trust you to handle their message and ensure it reaches your Executive. Building trust with your colleagues strengthens your authority and reinforces your role.

When Should You Make Your Executive Aware of the Issue?

It’s a good idea to make your Executive aware of the issue early on. Assistants often hesitate to bother their Executive with minor problems like this, but it can escalate and undermine your role if left unchecked.

If a colleague is bypassing you repeatedly or showing up unannounced in your Executive’s office, your Executive might wonder why you didn’t address it.

During your next 1:1 meeting with your Executive, casually mention the issue. Let them know a colleague has been bypassing you and, if it happens again, ask if they can redirect the colleague to you or loop you into the conversation. Reinforce that your role is to save them time and that colleagues bypassing you directly challenge this.

If the problem persists with a repeat offender, you may need additional support from your Executive to address the issue more formally. But often, simply making your Executive aware can resolve the problem quickly.

Consistently Communicating Your Role

Consistent communication about your role and value is key. Colleagues who bypass you diminish the authority and trust you’ve built, so it’s essential to address the behavior.

Set clear expectations with colleagues—including your Executive—about how communication should flow. Emphasize that bypassing you is counterproductive and not aligned with effective teamwork.

Assistants pride themselves on being proactive, organized, and knowledgeable professionals. While managing colleagues who bypass you can be frustrating and stressful, it’s a challenge that must be recognized and addressed.

Take Charge of Your Role

The Confident Communicator Course can help tackle challenges like this and more. With proven strategies for navigating tricky work situations and strengthening your relationship with your Executive, this course equips you with the tools to handle bypassing colleagues effectively.

Additionally, the course offers refresher tips to further hone your skills as an efficient administrative professional. In today’s dynamic workplace, investing in yourself is essential. Take action today and learn what it takes to become a successful and confident communicator!