What Every Leader Needs to Know About Working with a C-level Executive Assistant

Oct 1

C-level Executive Assistants are key players for Founders or other members of the Leadership team.

Strategic Partnership

A C-level Executive Assistant to a CEO (or other C-level Executives) is a role that has an incredible impact in the organization. They’re not only managing schedules and inboxes, but they are also proactive and constantly problem solving behind the scenes before any issues pop-up. They see the bigger picture and help keep the CEO accountable on their tasks and priorities.

The relationship between a leader and their EA can be a game-changer. A skilled EA does more than just manage schedules—they become a trusted partner who can significantly impact productivity, decision-making, and overall success. Whether you're a CEO, Founder, or senior executive, here’s what every leader needs to know about working with a C-Level Executive Assistant.

1. Trust is the Foundation of the Partnership

Building a foundation of trust with your EA is crucial. The more an EA understands your goals and priorities, the more they can anticipate needs and handle all tasks, including duties Cthat are confidential in nature.

2. Leverage Their Organizational Expertise

C-level Executive Assistants excel at efficiency and organization. If you leverage their skill set to optimize workflow processes, delegate projects and strategize priority items, you will free up time to focus on running a firm.

3. Include Them in Strategic Decisions

Your C-level EA can be a sounding board for ideas. Including them in strategic discussions will give you more insights that you may have not considered, and they may provide you with informed recommendations on daily operational matters.

4. Empower Them to Be a Gatekeeper

A top-tier EA doesn’t just organize your day; they protect your time. Empower them to serve as a gatekeeper, controlling access to your calendar and ensuring that only the most important meetings and events get through. This will maximize your productivity and ensure your energy is spent on high-priority tasks.

5. Give Them Authority to Make Decisions

Empower your C-level EA to have authority to run and approve certain tasks, lead initiatives and manage issues that do not require your direct involvement. By allowing them to make decisions, they can improve the efficiency of the company’s operations.

6. Align Them with Long-Term Objectives

Your C-level EA should have a deep understanding of your long-term goals and priorities. This will help them see the bigger picture when scheduling meetings and managing projects for the organization. They will understand better what is high on the priority list and what can wait or be delegated by other members of the C-Suite.

7. Encourage Professional Development

The C-level EA is a career that needs to constantly evolve, especially with keeping track of the latest technologies that are coming in the market. Fostering training and development, can bring even more value to you and your organization.

Conclusion

A C-level Executive Assistant can be one of the most valuable resources a leader has. By fostering a partnership based on trust, delegation, and alignment with long-term goals, leaders can work more effectively and achieve greater success.

Furthermore, it’s important to remember how valuable C-level EAs are for a smooth executive operation. They are force multipliers, who identify gaps and connect the dots across the organization.

Hiring a C-level EA will help the Founder stay focus on the business and critical priorities. It’s a no brainer!

Hendy Monegro