Why do I love being an Executive Assistant?

These are the types of reflection questions that cross our minds… maybe, especially during days when things aren’t going according to plan.

Life as an executive assistant is different for everyone. However, there’s an ever-present sense of satisfaction for each milestone and task that gets ticked off your list.

Being an executive assistant is awesome, and when we take the time to reflect on what this career truly is, we can’t help but feel a high sense of pride in what we do. 

The list can go on forever but here are the top 10 reasons why being an executive assistant is a fulfilling job.

1. Making the impossible, possible.

‍Ever managed to pull off organizing a major event with hundreds of attendees? Perhaps, successfully closing a lead for your boss? How about a favorite of ours: securing a last-minute ticket for a sold-out flight?

The impossible may look different for each of us, but we know that the feeling of accomplishment that comes from making it happen is the same. That sense of achievement is unmatched and the recognition that comes with being seen as a reliable asset who can get anything done is priceless because not everyone has that talent. But you do and it feels good when your boss knows it.

2. Conquering daily unknowns.

Let’s face it, no matter how organized and prepared you are, there’s always something that comes up unexpectedly from the left field. It comes with the territory of being an executive assistant to a high-value boss who has a ton of priorities and deliverables on their plate.

Most people tend to shy away from problems, but as an executive assistant with problem-solving superpowers, the unknown is another mystery that’s yet to be revealed. It’s these unpredictable things that make your day exciting because you know tomorrow brings with it a new challenge that’s waiting to be conquered.

3. Opportunities for eternal learning.

Anyone who’s a learner will thrive in being an executive assistant. The fact that you’re exposed to different people each time, work for some brilliant leaders, and deliver a diverse set of tasks daily puts you in the perfect position to pick up a new skill.  

4. Being an instrument in helping others succeed.

If helping is second nature to you, then this is something that can bring you great joy. You’re the glue that keeps your team and executive going. Essentially, everything that you do adds value to their daily lives.

With every single goal you achieve, you make a positive impact on the company and push your boss forward. Your excellence ripples through to others and they are caught in the after-effect of your actions. Whether it’s in a stellar report or a well-managed calendar, there’s no other perk that delivers joy like knowing that you made a difference in the lives of others and your company.

5. Learning from leaders

Not everyone has the chance to work closely with some of the high-level people in the company and be privy to how important business decisions are done.

This is one of the best ways to pick up some business acumen and understand how those in the inner circle think. After all, you have a goldmine of resources at your disposal when it comes to learning how to think the way the bosses do.  This is one of the best benefits of being an executive assistant and something that you should take advantage of.

6. Being trusted by people.

Being the go-to person means that you’re also the most trusted person by your executive in your team. There is plenty of information that only you have access to, events where you’re mostly the only one that has the privilege of tagging along, and the only one who is privy to your boss’s personal life. 

That trust alone is highly rewarding and can be a great source of satisfaction in your job.

7. Growing to become a jack of all trades.

Do you know that old adage that says a jack of all trades is a master of none? Well, there’s more to it than just the commonly quoted first sentence. The full version actually goes: a jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one. 

For many of us, this couldn’t ring more true. The many hats that you wear as an executive assistant are the very things that prune you to become excellent at what you do. Whether it’s being a writer, travel agent, or even an event planner, you’re going to pick up plenty of useful skills along the way that can elevate your personal development.

8. Flexible career positioning.

Remember what we said earlier about learning business acumen from the bigwigs? Picking up a skill or two that’s leaned toward decision-making or leadership can help you climb the corporate ladder easily. Whether you want to go for an executive role or head over to a bigger company, the more skills you add to your arsenal the better the role, higher pay, and benefits you can demand.

But the best thing is, even if you end up leaving the field entirely, you can easily switch to related roles like event planning which can be a highly profitable direction.

9. Being a trusted beacon of light.

You’re not just the go-to person by your executive, you’re also a respected voice that the rest of the team listens to. Having front-row seats to executive meetings means that when you speak, it’s regarded with credibility and insight. You know exactly what’s going on and what should be done, and everyone knows that.

Because of this, your words won’t fall on deaf ears and is gratifying because now you’re not just a contributor but a beacon of light that people go to for direction.

10. Growing into a partner, not just as an assistant.

While not all relationships are the same, it’s safe to assume that EAs all want one thing: to have a great relationship with their boss. That moment when you stop being considered as just a colleague to become a trusted partner who they recognize and respect is probably the most fulfilling part of the job. 

Parting Words

There are very few people who are cut out to function the way executive assistants do. For that very reason, you are indispensable and a high-value asset to the business. Of course, just like any job, it comes with its fair share of fulfillment and challenges. But the good news is, you don’t need to work hard to succeed – all you need is to work smart.

Investing in the right support system can make a huge difference in how your life as an EA can be. Software like Cabinet not only consolidates scheduling, administrative, and budgeting tools in one place, but it even offers access to a community of fellow EAs with who you can exchange notes with! 
Even the best EAs need support, too. That’s why Cabinet is here to make things easier for you, so you can thrive even more and find greater joy in your career.