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Job Duties of an Executive Assistant

By Julie Takamatsu

On a lazy weekday evening, I took the opportunity to watch a Chinese comedy called "OL Supreme" starring Lisa Wang. She played an executive assistant to the CEO of a large shopping mall in Hong Kong. While watching this, it brought back many memories of working and living in New York City as I once also was an executive assistant. Over the years, I have learned a number of things to succeed in that position.

Think Out of the Box
Depending on the directions where my boss is headed to, I would always asked the driver, Michael, to parked on a particular side of the street therefore giving the CEO an extra 5-10 minutes as he is not going toward traffic. That extra time allow him to review his notes or just relax before the conference. Especially in New York City, if you take the wrong turn, it can cost you an extra 10-15 minutes.

Don't talk about work during lunch
As a executive assistant, one carry a lot of responsibility as well as the trust of the boss. You do not want to do anything that will cost you your job. Instead, change the subject and talk about something else when approaches by other in the company. I normally talk about my one of my favorite hobbies – shopping. Where to get the latest jacket or what stores currently has 50% off there merchandise.

Secretary meeting once a month
As an executive assistant, you might also managing other staff such as the office manager, receptionist and other department secretary. It is good to get together once a month with everyone once a month to see if there is any problems, updates or just Q&A sessions. This meeting helps prevents further misunderstanding and having any problems escalate to the boss's level.

VIP List
Make sure you know all the important people that he talk to on a regular basis. Not only their cell phone, but their home phone, office number, EA's number, car number, e-mail, spouse's number and fax number. Know who his best friends are, his golfing buddies, his doctor, dentist, kids and even pet names. This will assist you in knowing who to put through and who might be a telemarketers as one of your duties will be to screen all of the calls.

Be one step ahead of him
If he is the type to enjoyed coffee once he get into the office, then make sure the coffee maker is program at a certain time. Arrive at least ½ hour before him so when he get in, the coffee is already waiting for him.

Have a curious mind
I tend to ask a bit of questions when I don't know the answer. Have a curious mind and don't stop learning. Be passionate about what you do. At the end, it will get you through some really tough days.

These are just a handful of examples that I did while working as a executive assistant in New York City for 6 years. I hope it provide some guidance. Happy job hunting.


Julie Takamatsu loves to teach and enjoyed sharing ideas. She is passionate about writing and taking pictures. As world travelers, she has blog about many different topics from inspiration, advice, crossroads to moments of happiness. You can find more of her posts on both of her blogs.

Contributed by Jufi on March 3, 2010, at 9:55 AM UTC.

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Vegetable Oil liked this intel. Apr 14, 2012

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Thanks, Julie for the information.

James Emery Vigh Mar 3, 2010 15:29

CONTRIBUTOR'S REPLY

Hi James,
Thanks. Hope you enjoyed reading it. ;)

Well written and good information for the inspiring assistant, Julie. We all need assistance as we work our way through life.
Thank you for sharing.
Best wishes.
Frederick

frederick Mar 4, 2010 18:57

CONTRIBUTOR'S REPLY

Thank you, Frederick.

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