Building a positive and trusting relationship with your Executive Assistant is essential for a successful partnership. Trust is established by understanding one another’s communication styles, preferences, and goals. In order to achieve this, both parties need to create time to talk through company priorities, deadlines, and any potential challenges. Finding a great long-term EA is a gift so it is worth the upfront cost of your time and energy if you want to see a true return on your investment!
Below we have included some helpful tips on how to build trust and create a lasting partnership with your Executive Assistant:
Communication: Clearly define and communicate the expectations you have of this person and what this role means to you. Never assume they will just “get it” but instead explain your vision and expectations. Make sure you are in alignment. They may push back so be prepared for some dialogue. Ensure they understand what is expected of them and what their responsibilities are.
Schedule Check-Ins: Carve out time for check-ins. They can be short and sweet but also an opportunity for feedback and future planning. Make sure they work best for you and your schedule.
Provide Feedback: Regularly provide feedback to your EA, both positive and constructive. This will help them understand how they are doing and what they can improve on. Be specific in your feedback and ask them to offer solutions.
Encourage Initiative: Encourage your EA to bring new ideas and be proactive. Give credit when they take initiative. Acknowledging their efforts not only boosts their morale but fosters a culture of innovation.
Empower Decision-Making: Allow your EA the autonomy to make decisions where appropriate. This communicates your trust in their capabilities and judgment. Micro-management can lead to a breakdown of trust.
Be Reliable: Keep your commitments and follow through on your promises. This will help your EA feel that they can rely on you and trust that you will support them in their role.
Set Your Boundaries: Establishing and respecting boundaries are pivotal to mutual trust. Being willing to say no or acknowledging that a boundary is being crossed is necessary to respect your own and the other parties.
Deepen the Connection: Invest in your relationship with your EA by taking the time to get to know them, showing interest in their work, and being supportive of their career goals. This will help establish a strong foundation of trust and respect. Small gestures such as acknowledging work anniversaries, birthdays, or career milestones go a very long way in building trust and longevity.
Integrate Your EA: If your EA has proven to be trustworthy, integrate your EA into more critical tasks and decisions. They will be far more invested in your success when they are a part of the entire process, and eventually part of the decision-making or even making decisions on your behalf.
Maintain Confidentiality: Your EA will likely handle sensitive information. Always ensure you respect confidentiality to set an example.
Good luck creating and establishing a strong partnership with your EA!
Curious about when to hire your first EA? Check out our recent blog post on this subject!