As a PA, one of your most important tasks is to communicate effectively with your executive. Every executive has their own unique style, and understanding how they prefer to exchange information can make a world of difference. In PA jobs in London, being in sync with your boss’s communication style is key to keeping everything running smoothly.
Here’s how to adapt and make communication work.
1. Understand their preferences
The first step is figuring out what works best for your executive. Are they a fan of quick emails, or do they prefer a face-to-face chat? Some executives thrive on concise updates, while others appreciate more detailed reports. Pay attention to the way they interact with you and others, and don’t be shy about asking directly.
By understanding these preferences, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother working relationship and less miscommunication.
2. Match their tone and style
Communication isn’t just about what you say—it’s also about how you say it. If your executive uses formal language in emails, mirror that style. If they prefer a casual tone, adjust accordingly. Matching their tone helps ensure your messages are received positively and reduces the risk of miscommunication.
Where you might be managing communication with clients or other departments on behalf of your boss, aligning your tone with theirs can also help maintain a consistent professional image.
3. Be proactive when communicating
Part of adapting to your executive’s style is anticipating their needs. If they tend to be hands-off, take the initiative to provide updates without being asked. On the flip side, if they’re detail-oriented, be ready to supply additional information or explanations.
At Love Success, our leading PA recruitment agency, we often hear how small proactive steps like these can build trust and show you’re reliable. Proactivity is consistently a characteristic looked for in PAs.
4. Adapt to different mediums
Communication often spans emails, phone calls, messaging apps, and video calls. Your executive might have a preference for certain mediums depending on the situation. For instance, they might prefer urgent matters to be texted, while less time-sensitive updates can wait for email.
By adapting to these preferences, you’ll ensure that you’re always in sync with their priorities and expectations. Flexibility is important.
5. Observe non-verbal cues
Communication isn’t just verbal—body language and facial expressions often say just as much. If you’re working in person, take note of how your executive reacts during meetings or conversations. Are they fidgeting when you go into too much detail? Do they seem distracted when you bring up certain topics?
By tuning into these non-verbal signals, you can adjust your approach and make your communication more effective.
6. Stay open and flexible
Executives are often under immense pressure, and their communication style may change depending on the situation. During a high-pressure situation, they might become more curt, while they may prefer collaborative brainstorming during quieter times. Stay flexible and open to adapting your style as their needs evolve, without taking things personally.
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