As an Executive Assistant, your role extends beyond mere administrative duties – it's a constant navigation through the personalities and pressures of the corporate world.
Five tips to manage difficult executives
Handling difficult executives is part and parcel of the job, and today, I want to share insights gleaned from years of personal experience in this delicate art. Try these tips:
Finding the nature of the challenge
Communicate effectively
Set boundaries where needed
Be adaptable and anticipate the unexpected
Understand the role of emotional intelligence
1. Finding the nature of the challenge
Difficult executives come in various forms; some may challenge you with their high demands, while others with their unpredictable moods. Recognizing that these behaviors are often not a personal attack but rather a manifestation of their drive and ambition can help you approach these situations with the right mindset.
2. Communicate effectively
The foundation of any successful relationship is communication, and this is especially true when it comes to working with demanding leaders. When I talk about effective communication, I'm referring to the practice of active listening, comprehending non-verbal cues, and articulating your points clearly. Handling difficult executives demands an elevated level of communicative clarity.
Active Listening: Really listen to their concerns and frustrations to grasp the underlying issues.
Articulate Clearly: Keep your messages concise and to the point to avoid additional frustration.
Establish Feedback Channels: Set up regular opportunities for open dialogue about what is working and what isn't.
3. Set boundaries where needed
It's crucial to establish clear boundaries with difficult executives. This doesn't equate to inflexibility but rather to a mutual understanding of professional limits. Being assertive, yet respectful, and consistent with these boundaries can help in preventing misunderstandings and creating a more harmonious working environment.
4. Be adaptable and anticipate the unexpected
Adaptability is a non-negotiable trait for an Executive Assistant. It often means adapting your working style to fit the executive's, anticipating their needs, and proactively addressing potential triggers. Knowing their preferences and communicating them to others involved can also preempt situations that might "set your executive over the edge."
5. Understand the role of emotional intelligence
Emotional intelligence is paramount in this role. It's about managing your emotions and being attuned to those of the executive. Days will come when your patience is tested, but self-regulation and empathy are your allies in maintaining professionalism and understanding things from the executive's perspective.
Handling difficult executives is not about changing who they are but about managing your interactions with them for effective outcomes. It involves setting and respecting boundaries, adapting your style, and maintaining your composure through emotional intelligence.
I'd love to turn this monologue into a dialogue. What are your experiences in handling difficult executives? Let's exchange stories and strategies – because while the executive may set the direction, it's the Executive Assistant who ensures the journey is smooth.
Additional Resources
Becoming an exceptional executive assistant requires dedicated effort and a keen understanding of your executive's needs. Unlock the potential for success with these insightful resources to kickstart your journey or refine your existing skills:
Essential Skills for Executive Assistants
Role of Executive Assistants in Cultivating Company Culture
The Power of Saying No as an EA
Decoding the Difference: Executive Assistant vs. Administrative Assistant