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Why CEOs Need Their Own EA and Shouldn’t Have Them Supporting Multiple Executives

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Does your company’s executive assistant (EA) support multiple high-level executives? If you have a startup or small business, you may see it as a cost-saving measure for your assistant to “double up” with two or more individuals, such as the CEO and CFO. But there are compelling reasons why it’s best not to do this, especially regarding assistants for the C-Suite.

At C-Suite Assistants, we provide expert CEO assistant staffing and hiring assistance to companies in all industries. We help businesses hire the best EAs and optimize their productivity for long-term success.

Why Does a CEO Need an EA?

The role of your chief executive officer is unlike any other in your organization. This top executive has a massive responsibility, from guiding the company’s strategic vision to corporate decision-making, managing operations, and being the face of the business to stakeholders. 

Since the CEO is the person who leads the company steadily toward its goals for maximum sustainability, they mustn’t be swayed off course by the endless stream of necessary tasks that are part of a thriving business. EA superhero to the rescue! 

What is the Responsibility of EA to the CEO?

The executive assistant to a CEO handles all administrative tasks, oversees communications, schedules meetings, manages schedules, and books travel for business and sometimes personal trips. They are the liaison between the CEO and other team members, acting as a filter and gatekeeper. 

The best EA removes daily operational pressures and lets the CEO focus on leadership and other high-level activities. Once tedious chores and unnecessary distractions are eliminated, the chief executive officer can be more productive and efficient, greatly benefiting the company. 

Duties of an Executive Assistant to CEO and Their Benefits

Every seemingly straightforward role that the EA takes on creates a protective boundary around the executive so that they can keep a laser beam focus on leading the organization. The EA’s tireless efforts can be the difference between a company that struggles with day-to-day operations and one that is proactive, thriving, and at the top of its industry. 

An EA’s many duties and benefits include:

  • Time Management – They help a CEO to better manage their time by scheduling meetings, booking business travel, and coordinating activities with different departments. The CEO can then focus on leadership, strategic decisions, and business relationships.  
  • Communication Management – By handling vital communications, preparing presentations, and following up on the CEO’s action items, they ensure timely, clear internal and external communication.
  • Gatekeeping – The EA is a filter between the CEO and other staff, clients, and stakeholders. They manage emails, phone calls, and demands on the executive’s time, protecting them from endless distractions.
  • Project Support – An EA can gather data, coordinate with various teams, and manage project timelines. As an overseer, they help ensure that projects meet stated deadlines and succeed without the CEO getting involved.
  • Anticipating Needs – A highly skilled executive assistant can anticipate the CEO’s requirements and proactively address these needs. Taking the initiative, the EA can avoid potential problems and keep things running smoothly for the executive.   
  • Confidentiality – An EA often has access to sensitive company information. Having one highly trusted person handling confidential documents helps prevent security breaches and keeps this critical information from falling into the wrong hands. 

Executive assistants are a company’s MVP (most valuable player).

Dedicated Executive Assistant for CEO – Why It’s a Good Idea

How many people should an executive assistant support? It depends on the executive and their responsibilities. Two directors at a small to mid-sized company in related departments—for example, marketing and sales—may be able to “share” an EA. Sometimes, it might make sense to have a liaison to ensure open communication and maximum collaboration. However, for a CEO who operates at a much higher level and oversees the entire business, having a dedicated professional to assist them is best.

Challenges when sharing an executive assistant with other executives include:

Workload Overload

The ability to multitask is often seen as a positive. However, the EA will no longer be productive or effective at a certain point. EA burnout will lead to poor work quality. 

Divided Attention

An assistant supporting multiple officers may face conflicting priorities or competition among executives to have their jobs handled first. This could cause considerable tension.

Communication Breakdown

Without clarity on an EA’s responsibilities, there could be miscommunication and misunderstandings between the EA and the multiple executives they support.

Details Slipping Through the Cracks

If the EA is overworked and must report to multiple executives, they may inadvertently miss essential details, which could negatively impact operations and the company’s reputation.

Different Working Styles

The EA must learn the preferences of multiple executives. Hiring the right assistant for different people is tough since personal rapport is a key factor in a CEO/EA relationship. 

Why You Should Partner With C-Suite Assistants

If you’ve determined that you need a dedicated executive assistant for CEO support, we can help. We work closely with clients to discuss their needs and consider the personality and style of the executive when searching for the best EA match. Our nationwide network of executive assistants includes active and passive candidates, and we go through a rigorous vetting process, saving you time and money. Our EAs hit the ground running!

Hire only the best with C-Suite Assistants. We understand the workload on your plate and can help you find an executive assistant who will grasp the task at hand professionally and efficiently. Contact our executive assistant recruiters today for more information on the process

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