The 3 frustrations of a managerial executive assistant
01 January
Delen:
The 3 frustrations of a managerial executive assistant.
As a coach, I understand that your role as a managerial executive assistant can be challenging and you may experience certain frustrations. I would like to list the three common frustrations you may be experiencing and encourage you to deal with them effectively:
Overwhelming Workload
As a managerial assistant, you are often responsible for a wide range of tasks and responsibilities. You support the management in their daily tasks and you manage a team or a secretariat. Oh yes, and you also have your own work. This multitude of tasks can sometimes become overwhelming and lead to stress and a feeling of exhaustion. Of course there are various time management techniques. In addition, I myself find Stephen Covey's time management matrix very useful, but what I don't see many assistants do, is discussing the workload.
Ultimately, as an executive assistant, you have a supporting role. And I see often enough that assistants put their own needs “on the back burner”. Some see it as a sign of weakness. Some think their manager will say that we are all busy. And some are afraid that they will no longer be taken seriously; by their manager and own team. But actually they don't know for sure.
I advise you to discuss your workload with your manager. But think about possible solutions first. If you only mention the workload, your manager ca't do anything about it.
Also consider what you can delegate to your team or secretariat. Do you really have to do everything yourself? Maybe your team members would like to take over some tasks that they find interesting.
Changing Priorities
The role of a managerial executive assistant is dynamic and can often bring a change in priorities. The management can initiate new projects, adjust the strategy or focus on urgent matters, which in turn directly affects your team and causes your own tasks and priorities to shift. This can be frustrating as it affects your schedule and workflow. It is important to remain flexible and adapt to these changes.
Communicate regularly with your manager to get clarity on the priorities and work closely with him/her to adjust your tasks accordingly.
Lack of Recognition
As a managerial assistant, you often work behind the scenes and the recognition for your contributions can sometimes be lacking. You are an essential part of the success of the organization, but this contribution may not always be sufficiently recognized. It's important to remember that you add value and that your work is appreciated, even if it's not always explicitly stated.
It is therefore important that you realize from time to time that you are simply doing a good job! In the end, you can't change your manager, only yourself. If your manager isn't really complimentary, you can't force him/her to. As if!! But you can of course share your successes with your team. And you can also seek recognition in your own achievements. It's about how you deal with it.
It's normal to experience these frustrations, but it's important to remember that you are in control of how you handle them. Look for ways to manage your workload, be flexible in dealing with changing priorities, and find recognition within your own achievements. You are a valuable professional and I believe you can overcome these challenges with flying colors.