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Executive Assistants: 3 Must-Read Books That Will Help Make Your Job Easier

July 15, 2021

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Executive Assistant books

As an administrative professional, it’s Priority #1 to not only perform the tasks required of you adequately but to find new ways to bring value to your role. This can be challenging because an executive assistant’s job is not a one-size-fits-all (as you know!). You may be a dedicated assistant to one executive or a jack of all trades within a small business. 

Regardless, the job functions of an executive assistant range daily, and the more knowledge you retain, skills you hone, and confidence you exude, the better off you’ll be. At ASAP, we believe passionately in continued education in any career path, so we’ve put together a list of three incredible books that will help guide you throughout your role as an executive assistant.

These books discuss topics like building rapport with C-level executives and high-ranking company leaders, adapting to new technology, tapping into your skillset to provide value during high-pressure situations, and much more.

  1. The Innovative Admin by Julie Perrine 

One of the most popular executive assistant books for today’s modern EA, The Innovative Admin challenges admin professionals to think outside the box in all facets of their work to remain ahead of the curve and provide valuable feedback and updates to their organizations. Whether this is new technology platforms, 

Author Julie Perrine shares insider techniques that will help inspire and motivate you to become a leader in your role, while also utilizing your creativity and passions to develop a forward-thinking approach to the job. 

While it can be challenging to try to “ignite your inner creativity” in such a task-oriented role, this book provides actionable advice to grow as an EA and continue expanding and refining your skill set. 

  1. The New Executive Assistant: Exceptional executive office management by Jonathan McIlroy 


When it comes to the role of executive assistant, unfortunately, many in the position today are extremely underutilized for what they’re capable of. Because this role is based on old-school mentality and ancient job descriptions, many perform way below their full potential. 

This book highlights the importance of examining the role of the executive assistant and re-creating the job description together. In doing so, efficiency and productivity for both employees (the EA and the executive) increases, as does their organization as a whole.

Maintaining a healthy partnership with your boss is crucial to job security and satisfaction within your role. The New Executive Assistant dives into the importance of the EA and executive relationship, why it must be symbiotic for both parties to succeed, and how both need each other equally to successfully run a business.

To create and maintain a successful working relationship, solid communication is key. Setting expectations early also helps guide both people to achieve what is asked of them and to continue finding success in their respective roless.

  1. The Leader Assistant: Four Pillars of a Confident, Game-Changing Assistant by Jeremy Burrows 

Not every assistant feels supported or capable enough to be a leader within their role. The challenges EAs face run the gamut from deadline changes, working with demanding executives, constant multitasking, and balancing projects and vendors. With so many tasks to complete each day, administrative employees often struggle to see the big picture that is their career because they’re so preoccupied with their job. 

This book highlights the four pillars that executive assistants need to feel empowered—embody the characteristics, employ the tactics, engage in relationships, and exercise self-care— to “rediscover your passion for the profession and become a confident, future-proof, game-changing Leader Assistant.”

Looking for more information on how you can excel as an executive assistant? At ASAP.org, we’re thrilled to help you discover your full potential in this rewarding career. 

Click here to explore tons of helpful guides, resources, and listicles like this one on our blog!

 

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