What Does an Executive Assistant Do?
Executive assistants are professionals who function as aides to corporate executives. While the responsibilities associated with work as an assistant of this type will vary depending on the corporate culture that prevails within a given company, there are a few basic tasks that are more likely to be found in any situation. Here are some ideas on how an executive assistant functions in a business setting.
In just about any company, the executive assistant is responsible for handling tasks that are delegated by the executive who serves as his or her immediate supervisor. Often, a large part of the assistant’s day is spent handling clerical tasks, such as reading and screening incoming correspondence, drafting and proofing letters for the executive, and handling other basic office functions. The assistant may also be called upon to manage the schedule for the executive, keeping track of meeting times, various appointments outside the office, and taking responsibility for making travel arrangements when and as necessary.
Depending on the structure and size of the company, an executive assistant may have one or more assistants to help with the workload. When this is the case, the executive normally has little to no direct interaction with the assistants who report to the executive assistant. Decisions on discipline, commendations, and raises are often left to the discretion of the executive or head assistant, or are made in consultation with the executive over the department.
Securing an executive assistant job normally requires a combination of training and practical experience. In general, executives expect their assistants to be well versed with company policies and procedures as well as proficient with basic office functions. It is not unusual for an employee to become an executive assistant after working in another position within the company structure. While many companies prefer that assistants have a degree of some type, there are still a number of executive assistant career opportunities where experience will be more important than formal education.
In terms of compensation, executive assistant jobs normally offer pay and benefits that are in line with the job responsibilities assigned to the position. In some companies, an assistant with a long tenure may be eligible to participate in pension programs or other perks that are not widely offered to other employees working in lesser positions.
Many people assume that the role of an executive assistant is the same as that of a personal assistant. That is not the case. Personal assistants are usually charged with responsibilities such as running errands for their bosses, or handling tasks that are not directly related to the workplace. By contrast, an executive assistant focuses strictly on tasks that are directly related to work functions and does not provide any type of support with tasks considered to be outside the scope of the business.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
