Most of us have felt the desire to want more from our EA role at some point.
Whether it's because we've been in it for a while and it feels stagnant, issues have developed in the workplace—like under-appreciation, office politics, or salaried compensation doesn't meet our expectations, perhaps the company has failed to review and / or offer pay rises in line with your growing experience as well as inflation—many of us have experienced moments where we want more. I certainly have.
In my personal experience as EA & Office Manager - I wanted to take on more responsibility at work. Not because I didn't have enough on my plate, but because I wanted to achieve my career development goals, which included working on more complex projects, gaining seniority, and stepping into leadership roles.
During my annual review, I approached my boss with my ambitions. I suggested assisting another senior leader with diary and travel management, as well as taking on more operational and HR duties. The CEO was supportive, "I want you to be the happiest possible in this role". I thought, "Fantastic! What a great meeting".
But a few months passed by, and nothing really changed. The other senior team member preferred to remain self-sufficient, and the additional operational responsibilities I had hoped to take on did not materialise. When I brought it up again at my next review and followed up by email, the support was there in words but not in action.
Then came a company announcement about upcoming organisational changes that would slow down my role even further—exactly the opposite of what I wanted. After trying everything within my power to effect change internally, I began to think it might be time to look elsewhere for a more challenging and growth-oriented position. And that is okay if you don’t see the opportunities within your current company. Sometimes the aspirations and trajectories for the future are just not a match.
But as most will have heard or even be it experienced; the job market is not the most exciting at the moment. Secretarial jobs are on the decline, companies are tightening their belts, not particularly investing in departmental growth if not laying off people completely! Not to mention the growing number of talented individuals competing for the already scant pool of roles available. A perfect storm for an employer's market.
So, what can be said for those that are wanting more from their current EA role in the state of current affairs?
In an adverse job market, focusing inward can be crucial.
Instead of solely looking externally, consider how you can develop within the organisation. Approach management with researched courses that align with your job role—whether in leadership, organisational management, or technology. You could even introduce and champion new technologies like Slack or Trello to streamline and improve processes for your department, becoming the go-to person for that solution.
What I also quite enjoy about our role as an EA is how diverse it is, and you are never tied down to working as an assistant forever. There is great potential in pivoting our existing skillset and diversifying into other careers, such as: event coordination, operations, project management or even HR.
Whichever route you decide to go down, I would highlight the importance for connection. Programmes like the one run by Lily Shippen provide essential support and opportunities for career development. Building relationships with the lovely ladies at Lily Shippen, who specialise in recruitment, is such a valuable connection to make, as recruitment advisors guide companies' hiring approach. Additionally, connecting with other EAs who can share their experiences and offer advice can be the support system needed during these times of uncertainty, more so to assistants in stand-alone roles within their organisations.
In conclusion, while we are navigating a unique time, it is possible to find greater satisfaction and growth from the EA role.
By tapping into the support of our professional community and staying committed to our professional development, we can navigate these challenges and find the fulfilment we seek.