I’m sure you have heard of the job title executive assistant (EA) before. Maybe in context with many other job titles such as personal assistant and administrative assistant. So what exactly is an executive assistant?
Executive assistants are professionals who have experience with project management and administrative tasks. They’re the go-to person who works closely with upper and senior management at a company to manage their calendar and schedules.
They are upper management’s right-hand assistants!
When you’re working as the right-hand person for a CEO, or senior company team members, you’re responsible for them “working at their most optimal level.” Your job is to keep them moving and have everything they need to be fully efficient at their fast and busy level.
EAs are organized, quick on their feet, have thick skin, and should know the in’s and out’s of the company they work for. So what exactly do they do?
The job description for an EA will always be specific to whatever company is employing the EA. Typical duties, however, will include scheduling and handling everything on the executive’s calendar. Consider executive assistants the gatekeepers of an executive’s time.
Here is a list of common responsibilities:
- Act as the point of contact among executives, employees, clients and other external partners
- Manage information flow in a timely and accurate manner
- Manage executives’ calendars and set up meetings
- Make travel and accommodation arrangements
- Document daily expenses and prepare weekly, monthly or quarterly reports
- Format information for internal and external communication – memos, emails, presentations, reports
- Take minutes during meetings
- Screen and direct phone calls and distribute correspondence
- Organize and maintain the company’s online filing system
Typical skills and requirements:
- Work experience as an Executive Assistant, Personal Assistant or similar role
- Excellent MS Office knowledge
- Outstanding organizational and time management skills
- Familiarity with office software and applications
- Excellent verbal and written communications skills
- Discretion and confidentiality
EAs are usually expected to work independently on certain tasks or projects over a given period of time. As such, being able to multitask and stay on track are key qualifiers.
At Life by Design Staffing Solutions we have a team of expert Executive Assistants that come from a diverse background of industries. We are skilled at matching the right freelancer for you and your business.
Interested in learning more about how we can help you grow your business? Head to our website:
https://lifebydesignvs.com/getstarted/
