Working as an Executive Assistant (EA) to a CEO in London is both a challenging and rewarding experience. Those who excel in these roles often possess a unique blend of skills and experience. We spoke to several EAs to gather their top tips for success in Executive Assistant jobs in London.
· Embrace proactivity and initiative
"Being proactive is key," says Priya, an EA for a tech startup CEO. "Don’t wait to be told what to do. Anticipate the needs of your executive and act accordingly." Priya recommends regularly reviewing your executive's calendar and upcoming deadlines, ensuring everything is prepared in advance. "It's about making their life easier without them having to ask."
· Be a communication pro
Jamie, who supports the CEO of a financial services firm, highlights the importance of communication, "Clear and concise communication is crucial. Whether it's an email, a phone call, or a face-to-face meeting, always be clear about your message and expectations." James also advises keeping everyone in the loop, "Keep your executive updated on progress and any potential issues. It’s better they hear it from you first."
· Prioritise and organise
Andrea, an EA in the healthcare sector, stresses the need for impeccable organisation, "You need to be on top of everything. Use tools like digital calendars, task managers, and project management software to stay organised." She adds, "Prioritisation is equally important. Know what tasks need immediate attention and which ones can wait. It helps in managing the workload effectively."
· Build strong relationships
"Building relationships within the organisation is essential," notes Nathan, an EA for a prominent marketing agency. "You need to be the person who knows everyone and can get things done." Nathan suggests networking within the company and establishing good rapport with other departments. "A strong network makes it easier to coordinate and execute tasks smoothly."
· Be adaptable and flexible
Eva, who works with a CEO in the entertainment industry, emphasises adaptability, "Things can change in an instant. One minute you’re working on a project plan, and the next, you’re arranging a last-minute flight." She advises being flexible and ready to pivot when necessary. "It’s important to stay calm and composed, no matter how chaotic things get."
· Keep learning and growing
Raj, an EA in the legal sector, believes in continuous learning, "Never stop learning. Whether it's new software, industry trends, or personal development, keep improving your skills." He shares that taking courses and attending workshops can be highly beneficial. "The more knowledgeable and skilled you are, the more valuable you become to your executive."
· Maintain professionalism
"Professionalism is non-negotiable," says Chloe, who assists the CEO of a retail chain. "Always maintain a professional demeanour, whether you're in the office, on a call, or at an event." Chloe advises handling sensitive information with care. "Trust is a huge part of the job, and professionalism helps build that trust."
· Look after yourself
Balancing work and personal life, and stress, can be challenging in demanding EA jobs in London. "It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind," says Michael, an EA for a CEO in the finance industry. "But it’s important to set boundaries and take time for yourself." Michael recommends finding a routine that works and sticking to it. "Taking care of your wellbeing ensures you can perform at your best."
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