If you’re just a promotion away from the path to becoming a Senior Executive Assistant or you’ve set your sights on getting there, let’s explore this journey together. Based on insights from a recent Future Assistant Global Summit session presented by Peggy Vasquez, a renowned author and keynote speaker, we’ll dive into the critical skills that separate an EA from a Senior Executive Assistant. Trust me, I’ve been there—I know the challenges, and together, we’ll figure out how to navigate them.
As Peggy Vasquez rightly points out, the skills that got you to where you are as an EA won’t necessarily carry you to the next level. Early in our careers, we’re all about implementation—building technical expertise and mastering those critical day-to-day tasks. It’s an essential foundation. But here’s the reality: implementation, while important, is just the starting point. Many of these tasks are already being taken over by AI. To move forward, we need to think about where we can truly add value.
As we climb the ladder, our focus shifts. Moving from being an implementer to a manager means stepping away from purely administrative tasks and stepping into managing processes, projects, and sometimes even teams. It’s about blending technical skills with leadership and strategic thinking. For example, Peggy shared how her role transformed when she became a Chief Executive Assistant. Suddenly, tasks like expense reports took a back seat to strategic projects. Sound familiar? If not yet, it will soon.
This resource is perfect for any Assistant looking to unlock their full potential and make a measurable impact on their team.
Before we dive in, let’s talk about why these pillars matter on the path to becoming a senior executive assistant. Whether you’re already on this journey or just starting to think about it, understanding these core areas will give you the tools to succeed and thrive in this challenging and rewarding role. Let’s break it down together:
Communication
Let’s be real—communication is everything. Whether you’re speaking, writing, or just listening, mastering this skill is non-negotiable. Your executive spends most of their day communicating—in meetings, one-on-ones, or with stakeholders—and you’re a key part of that ecosystem. Think of yourself as the glue that holds everything together, ensuring that messages are clear, expectations are aligned, and priorities are met. Building strong relationships doesn’t just help you get things done; it creates trust and ensures your voice is valued. Conflict resolution is another big piece—it’s about finding solutions, not just smoothing things over. And finally, staying aligned with your executive while on the path to becoming aSsenior Executive Assistant’s vision means you’re always a step ahead, anticipating needs and making communication seamless. Mastering this makes you indispensable.
Strategic and Critical Thinking
A Senior Executive Assistant has to think big. We’re not just typing up agendas—we’re crafting them with strategic intent and ensuring every detail aligns with the bigger picture. It’s about stepping out of the immediate and into the strategic. We need to anticipate what’s coming next—whether it’s a shift in business priorities or changes in the competitive landscape—and be ready with solutions before challenges even arise. Understanding the organizational impact of every task means looking at how your work drives results for your executive and the team as a whole. It’s not just about doing—it’s about thinking critically, questioning processes, and finding ways to make them better. That’s where we truly shine.
Leadership and Emotional Intelligence
Leadership isn’t just for the corner office. As Senior EAs, we lead by example, and emotional intelligence is our superpower. Managing your emotions—and understanding others’—helps you stay steady in the high-stakes, high-stress C-Suite environment. Let’s face it, the pressure can be intense, but staying calm and collected not only helps you but also reassures your executive and team. Emotional intelligence also means reading the room, understanding unspoken cues, and knowing when to step in or step back. It’s about creating a ripple effect of positivity and productivity. And let’s not forget—helping your team thrive isn’t just about delegation; it’s about support, mentorship, and being the person they can count on to navigate challenges together. That’s what makes us invaluable.
Stepping up from an Executive Assistant role to a Senior Executive Assistant is about more than a title.
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, consider joining The Strategic Business Partner Online Course. This program is designed specifically for assistants like you who want to build their strategic influence, enhance their skills, and make a real impact. Learn more and enroll today. It’s a shift in mindset, skills, and approach. It’s about letting go of what you’ve always done well and embracing new challenges. We’re in this together, and I know you’ve got what it takes to make that leap. Let’s get to work.
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