Graeme Barlow’s Post

Craft or Career? For Executive Assistants, It’s Both – and More Being an Executive Assistant isn’t just a job title; it’s a craft, a vocation. You don’t simply endure this role—you develop it, build it with care, precision, and a deep commitment to the journey. To thrive here, you need more than a skill set—you need an approach that embraces both the challenges and the triumphs. It’s a calling that demands both heart and resilience, the kind that lets you push through the heartaches and rise above the occasional chaos. This role calls on you to be a strategist, a confidant, a problem-solver. It’s about building relationships, anticipating needs before they’re spoken, and standing as the unwavering support for those you work alongside. Every day is an opportunity to hone your craft, and every setback is a stepping stone toward mastery. This isn’t a career for the faint-hearted. But for those who approach it with purpose and passion, it’s one of the most fulfilling paths you can walk. What practices have helped you refine your craft as an EA? Let’s share our journeys and inspire one another. #ExecutiveAssistant #CareerCraft #EACommunity #ProfessionalGrowth #SupportProfessionals #CraftYourCareer #PurposeAndPassion #Resilience #MakeKnowledgeSharingYourBitch #CEOsChampion

Looking to hire an Executive Assistant⁉️ Here are 4 key qualities to look for: 1️⃣ Trustworthiness: They should have high integrity and be ethical. 2️⃣ Resourcefulness: Able to make decisions and solve problems independently. 3️⃣ Adaptability: Ready to pivot and execute new plans without hesitation. 4️⃣ Independence: They have their own opinions and aren’t just ‘yes’ people. Bonus: A great EA is also a protector—they help preserve your energy and remind you of your greatness!🙌🏼🚀

Reflecting on my journey as an executive assistant - it's a role that's both challenging and rewarding. Executive pros: what's a highlight from your career that you're proud of? Share your stories! #CareerJourney #ProudMoments #ExecutiveAssistantLife

Role of Executive Assistant

Hiring an Executive Assistant without a degree can be a strategic choice because many possess extensive practical experience and a proven track record of supporting high-level executives. Their hands-on skills in time management, communication, and organizational tasks often surpass theoretical knowledge. Additionally, their ability to adapt and learn on the job ensures they can meet the dynamic needs of executive support roles effectively.

Are you always busy and never done on time? You can probably benefit from hiring an assistant. But which kind? This blog will help you determine if you need a personal assistant or if you’re better off with an executive assistant. Click here to find out ⬇️ https://lnkd.in/dZ3FJWk5 #ExecutiveAssistant #PersonalAssistant

As I approach almost two decades as an Executive Assistant - a role I deeply value for its dynamism and the unique opportunities it has provided - I want to share a reflection that may resonate with many in similar positions. Throughout my career, I've often been labeled as "the assistant of," suggesting I'm merely a subsidiary to someone else. There's a tendency for some to view me as standing in the shadow of those I support, where my achievements are seen not as my own but as extensions of another's success. The label "Executive Assistant," while a part of who I am, sometimes overshadows the individual contributions and the professional identity I've worked hard to build. I view the relationship between an EA and an executive as inherently collaborative. I don't exist merely because of the person I support; rather, we both contribute crucially, each of us a vital cog in a larger mechanism. Over the past decade, I've been fortunate to collaborate with Konstantinos Apostolatos who recognized and celebrated my capabilities and successes. I find it essential, particularly in roles often seen as 'merely' supportive, to assert and celebrate our own professional accomplishments and individuality. Here’s to all the EAs who excel and push boundaries, ensuring their unique contributions are recognized. Let's continue supporting each other's distinct identities and achievements! #ExecutiveAssistant #CareerReflection Photo by Prateek Katyal on Unsplash

As we step into this new month, let’s talk about something that can make a huge difference in your business: hiring an executive assistant. A very wise man once "Time is more valuable than money. You can get more money, but you cannot get more time" ~JIM ROHN~ Do you know that by hiring an executive assistant, you can reclaim your time and invest it where it matters most. Why would you want an executive assistant? Imagine having someone who takes care of all the small stuff, so you can focus on the big picture. That’s what an executive assistant does! They handle your schedule, manage tasks, and keep things running smoothly. This means you have more time for strategic thinking and growing your business. Who is an executive assistant? An executive assistant is your right-hand person. They’re the ones who make sure everything is organized, from your calendar to your communications. Think of them as the backbone of your operations, helping you stay on top of everything. This week, we’ll be diving into the many reasons why having an executive assistant can transform your business. From increasing productivity to ensuring smooth operations. I’m really excited about what this new month and week have in store. Let’s get productive and hit our goals together! Here’s to a productive and successful month ahead! #HappyNewMonth #GoalSetting #GrowthMindset #NewBeginnings #ExecutiveAssistant #Productivity #WeeklyFocus

Navigating My First Day as an Administrative Assistant in Real Estate I recently started a new role as an Administrative Assistant in the real estate industry, and I learned quite a bit about the importance of clear expectations and communication. The position seemed promising, as the interview assured me of on-the-job training and support. However, on my first day, things didn’t unfold quite as I expected. Arriving at 9 a.m., I waited outside until 9:15 a.m. for the office to open, which set a somewhat unusual tone for the day. Although I mentioned that this was my first experience in real estate and was promised thorough guidance, my tasks quickly piled up. I was asked to contact 100 agents and coordinate meetings for our manager. Shortly afterward, I was given additional responsibilities involving complex logistical arrangements—sourcing items from various suppliers, handling transportation needs for a large group, and finding specific property listings, all within very tight timelines. As the day progressed, I found myself stretched across multiple roles, from sourcing quotes to conducting interviews, even assisting with office cleaning tasks. It was overwhelming, and I questioned whether these tasks aligned with my role as an Administrative Assistant. My lunch break slipped by unnoticed, with no mention of breaks or downtime, and I realized the importance of setting boundaries and asking for clarity in such situations. Here’s my advice for anyone in a similar position: Clarify Expectations Early: During onboarding, take time to discuss specific duties and daily routines with your manager to avoid misunderstandings. Knowing what is expected from you can help you prioritize and manage your workload. Set Boundaries Respectfully: If tasks exceed your job description or become unmanageable, have a candid conversation with your supervisor. Knowing your limits and communicating them can prevent burnout and ensure a more balanced workload. Seek Support When Needed: In a high-paced role, you’re not expected to have all the answers. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or seek guidance from your colleagues. Starting a new job can be challenging, and learning to manage both the tasks and workplace culture is key. I’m grateful for the experience, and I hope to grow from it by learning how to navigate new responsibilities with greater resilience and confidence. #AdministrativeAssistant #RealEstate #CareerJourney #WorkplaceExperience #ProfessionalGrowth

What is one way you're getting over the midweek slump? Since hiring an EA, I'm finding I have more time to focus on founder business. This means I'm not so bogged down with daily tasks and have more energy by the middle and end of the week! Questions about hiring an executive assistant? Drop them below!