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Category: Communication

How to communicate effectively with your executive

Communication is at the heart of every great partnership between an executive assistant and their executive. It’s not just about passing on messages or managing schedules; it’s about understanding how your executive thinks, anticipating their needs and tailoring your approach to suit their decision-making style. Mastering this not only builds trust but positions you as […]

Chair excellent meetings: What admin pros need to know

If you’ve reached Level 4 or 5 on the Global Skills Matrix, chances are you’ll be asked to chair a meeting, even with senior stakeholders at the table. It might feel intimidating, but with the right approach, you can run effective, professional meetings that respect everyone’s time and deliver real outcomes. Here’s how to confidently lead […]

How to approach traditional leaders with new ideas

While your innovative ideas might initially clash with a traditionally minded executive’s conventional outlook, a strategically crafted approach can help transform initial resistance into enthusiastic support. The key lies in understanding how to package your ideas in a way that resonates with their management philosophy while demonstrating clear value to the organization.

Eliminating unnecessary apologies

The words we choose can act as silent saboteurs of our professional presence. For many executive assistants, “sorry” has become an unconscious verbal tic—a reflex that undermines our competence and erodes our self-assurance. Mental health speaker Charlie Lass offers a transformative approach to communication that replaces apology with confidence, clarity and professionalism.

The art of saying ‘I’ll get back to you’

For executive assistants, fielding requests for information about your executive is as common as calendar Tetris. From seemingly innocuous questions about vacation spots to more direct inquiries about business decisions, EAs often find themselves in the position of information gatekeeper. Here’s how to navigate these requests like the professional you are.

Cracking the code: How EAs prefer to receive instructions

Executive assistants are the unsung heroes of the corporate world, but how do you and your fellow skilled professionals prefer to receive instructions from your executives? We recently conducted a poll in our Facebook and LinkedIn groups, and the response from the community sheds light on this crucial aspect of the EA/executive relationship.

Harnessing the power of storytelling

Executive assistants often serve as the bridge between executives and employees, translating complex ideas and fostering a positive work environment. One powerful tool at your disposal that may seem unconventional is storytelling. But how can you use this skill to enhance your effectiveness and create a meaningful impact in your organization?

11 tips to sharpen your proofreading skills

Your ability to catch errors in documents before they reach your executive or client is crucial. Thankfully, proofreading is a skill that can be honed with practice and the right strategies. Here are some effective ways to enhance your proofreading prowess and ensure your documents are error-free.