Supporting your executive’s success is a critical part of your role as an assistant. As a key member of your boss’s team, you have the unique opportunity to help them achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the organization. Whether you’re new to your role or looking for ways to take your support to the next level, here are some tips for managing up and helping your executive succeed:
- Understand their goals and priorities. Take the time to understand your executive’s goals and priorities, and align your work accordingly. This can help you anticipate their needs and provide support in achieving their objectives.
- Be proactive. Don’t wait for your boss to ask for help. Be proactive in identifying areas where you can offer support or solutions.
- Communicate effectively. Good communication is key to managing up. Make sure you’re communicating clearly and effectively, and keep your boss informed of any relevant updates or issues.
- Offer solutions, not just problems. When you bring an issue or challenge to your executive’s attention, be prepared to offer potential solutions as well.
- Build trust. Trust is essential in any working relationship, and it’s especially important when managing up. Make sure you’re consistently delivering high-quality work and following through on commitments.
- Take ownership. When you’re supporting your executive, take ownership of your role and the tasks you’re responsible for. This can help your boss feel confident in your abilities and trust you to handle important tasks.
- Provide feedback. Don’t be afraid to offer feedback to your executive when appropriate. Constructive feedback can help your boss improve and achieve their goals more effectively.
By understanding your executive’s goals and priorities, being proactive, communicating effectively, offering solutions, building trust, taking ownership, and providing feedback, you can help your executive succeed and strengthen your working relationship. As an executive assistant, helping your boss achieve their objectives is an essential part of your role, and managing up effectively can be a key to your success.
