Ep52: Can We Talk About Ad-Hoc Tasks?

In The EA Campus Podcast Ep52: Can We Talk About Ad-Hoc Tasks, host Nicky Christmas tackles one of the biggest challenges Executive Assistants face—managing the constant stream of unexpected, ad-hoc requests that can take over your day.

Ad-hoc tasks are inevitable in the EA role, but when they dominate your workload, they can prevent you from focusing on the strategic, high-impact work that really moves the needle. In this episode, you’ll learn how to take control, set boundaries, and ensure that these tasks work for you—not against you.

We’ll cover:

• What ad-hoc tasks are and why they impact Assistants more than other roles

• How to quantify them so they don’t disappear into ‘invisible work’

• Strategies to push back on unnecessary requests while maintaining strong relationships

• How to approach your Executive when ad-hoc work is overwhelming your workload

• What to do if your role has become entirely reactive and how to redefine expectations

Packed with practical tips and real-world strategies, The EA Campus Podcast Ep52: Can We Talk About Ad-Hoc Tasks will give you a step-by-step approach to reclaiming your time, building visibility around your contributions, and creating a healthier balance in your role.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Ad-Hoc Task Tracker & Prioritization Template – Start tracking your ad-hoc tasks and take control of your workload.

• Assistant Fundamentals Masterclass – Strengthen your foundational skills and build confidence.

• Community Webinar: Creating a User Manual for Your Executive – Learn how to set expectations with your executive.

• Mastering Automation Masterclass – Streamline and automate repetitive tasks to free up time.

Listen to The EA Campus Podcast Ep52: Can We Talk About Ad-Hoc Tasks and take the one-week ad-hoc tracking challenge to see how much of your day is really spent on reactive work. Share your insights in The EA Campus Community and start shifting your role from reactive to strategic.