Behind every successful executive is usually an incredible assistant keeping the wheels turning. But even the best working relationships can hit a few bumps – often simply because managers don’t realise what their admin assistant is truly capable of, or what they actually need to do their best work.
Here are five things executive assistants (EAs) quietly wish their managers understood – and how knowing them could make life smoother for both of you. Here’s what they’d say if you’re ready to listen.
1. We Can Do More Than You Think
Booking travel and managing calendars is just the tip of the iceberg.
A good EA is not just support – they’re a strategic partner. Many are skilled at project management, research, communication, event planning, and more. The more you bring them into the fold, the more they can take off your plate – and the more proactive they can be.
Think: “I didn’t even know I needed help with that… until they’d already sorted it.”
Want to free up your brain for bigger decisions? Give your assistant access to the full picture.
2. Investing Time in Us Pays Off Big
Yes, you’re busy. But skipping those quick catch-ups or not sharing the bigger picture can backfire.
Taking a few minutes each week to align priorities, share context, or talk through upcoming plans can make all the difference. It means your EA can anticipate what’s coming, flag issues early, and sometimes even fix things before you know they’ve gone wrong.
Bottom line? A bit of your time now = a lot more of your time saved later.
3. Tell Us How You Like to Communicate
Prefer Slack to email? Want updates in a daily digest rather than constant pings? Need a heads-up before we book a meeting with a certain client?
The more we know your communication style, the more smoothly everything runs. And if you’re not sure what you prefer, that’s okay – a good EA will start to pick it up and adapt quickly. But an honest chat early on helps avoid crossed wires later.
Clear is kind – and it keeps us both on track.
4. Regular Check-Ins Matter More Than You Think
It’s tempting to cancel that five-minute check-in when your day gets busy. But those tiny touchpoints are where the magic happens.
They’re how we stay aligned, share updates, and build trust. Even if nothing major needs discussing, those moments help your assistant get a better sense of your pace, your preferences, and your priorities – which leads to better, faster support.
No need to overthink it. Just keep the line open.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Us Things
Not sure if we can take on that new project? Wondering if we’ve got capacity this week? Curious if we’ve handled something similar before?
Just ask.
Executive assistants are here to help, and often love a challenge. If it’s not something we can do ourselves, we’ll usually know who can. Communication is always better than guessing – and it saves everyone time.
We’re not mind readers (yet), but we’re pretty close. A little trust goes a long way.
Takeaway Great working relationships don’t happen by accident. When executives understand what their EAs need – and what they’re truly capable of – that’s when the real magic happens. It’s not just about delegation; it’s about partnership.
Want less stress and more headspace? Start by having one of these five conversations with your EA this week.
