LEADING THE EVOLUTION: Be the change you want to see
The journey to transform the executive support role into one recognized for its strategic advisory and business partnership potential may seem overwhelming. However, in the rapidly changing workplace, the role of executive support professionals is not being replaced but evolving. This presents an opportunity that, with intentional effort, can be more accessible than we think.
The administrative profession has made incredible strides over the years. Change has often been gradual, driven by evolving industry needs, new organizational structures, and progressive societal shifts like gender equality and the increasing presence of women in leadership roles. Despite the pace sometimes feeling slow, these shifts have paved the way for a renewed perception of administrative professionals. This change has gathered momentum in the last decade thanks to the relentless efforts of advocacy groups, industry champions, and forward-thinking professionals. The rise of social media has further amplified their voices, extending their reach and impact and raising awareness about the vital and evolving nature of the executive support role.
This surge in advocacy and visibility is a remarkable boon for the profession. Executive support professionals are increasingly recognized as key contributors to organizational success. The role is now seen through the lens of strategic importance, marking a significant departure from the traditional, often undervalued view of administrative positions. However, while this momentum is promising, the change is not as universal or deeply rooted as it could be.
It's not for lack of effort or advocacy—on the contrary, those driving this shift are working tirelessly to reshape perceptions and establish new norms. Yet, despite these efforts, the journey toward universal recognition and acceptance of executive support professionals as strategic partners is ongoing. Titles like "Chief of Staff," "Senior Executive Assistant," or "Business Partner" are not merely handed out; they represent a long journey of growth, skill enhancement, and a strategic demonstration of value. Unfortunately, these titles are often given without the authority, responsibilities, or compensation that genuinely reflect the role's significance. This approach can unintentionally diminish the genuine value that executive support professionals bring.
But there is an alternative path—a way to drive real, meaningful change. If the goal is to shift the narrative and establish the executive support role as a true strategic partner, the power lies within each professional. By actively shaping your career and contributing to the broader perception of the profession, you can lead the way toward this transformation. Here's how you can embrace this change:
How to Be the Change:
1. INVEST in Your Professional Development
The future of work is rapidly changing, with automation and AI reshaping many roles. However, the executive support role is not being replaced—it is evolving. To stay ahead of this evolution, investing in continuous professional development is crucial. Focus on upskilling in areas that matter most for future success, such as strategic thinking, digital literacy, project management, and advanced communication. By enhancing your skills, you not only secure your place in the evolving workplace but also position yourself as an invaluable strategic partner within your organization. This investment in yourself is the foundation for your future influence and success, empowering you to shape your career and contribute to the broader perception of the profession.
2. INVESTIGATE Your Skills Gaps
Actual growth begins with self-awareness. Take time for an honest self-assessment and ask yourself: What skills must I develop to elevate my career? This introspection requires courage and a willingness to confront areas where improvement is needed. For example, could you benefit from a deeper understanding of data analysis to provide more strategic support? Or is there room to enhance your strategic planning skills? Identifying these gaps is the first step toward meaningful growth. Once you've pinpointed areas for improvement, create a targeted plan to address them. This might involve pursuing formal education, engaging in online learning, or seeking mentorship from those who have excelled in your areas of interest. Remember, every step you take toward closing these gaps is a step toward your professional empowerment.
3. REFLECT on Your Attributes
While skills are crucial, success also hinges on your personal attributes and behavior patterns. Reflect on the traits that propel you forward and those that might be holding you back. This reflection can be challenging, as it requires confronting uncomfortable truths about your attitudes and behaviors. Ask yourself: Are there mindsets or habits that limit your growth? Do you shy away from taking initiative out of fear of failure or avoid conflict, preventing you from advocating for your role effectively? Acknowledging these internal barriers is essential for personal development. Consider investing in professional coaching to gain an external perspective and develop strategies to overcome these obstacles. The Global Assistant Online offers a complimentary introductory coaching session for every administrative professional and ongoing coaching programs accessible worldwide. Coaching provides the support and guidance needed to navigate internal challenges, fostering personal and professional growth.
4. WELCOME Feedback
Feedback is a powerful catalyst for growth. It can be uncomfortable, but it is also one of the most effective tools for development. If your organization offers 360-degree evaluations, take full advantage of this opportunity. These evaluations offer a holistic view of your performance, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. If formal evaluations are not available, take the initiative to seek feedback from your manager and colleagues. During performance reviews, approach the conversation with openness and curiosity. Prepare thoughtful questions to elicit constructive feedback, and embrace this input with a growth mindset. Remember, feedback is not a critique of your character but a valuable guide to becoming more effective and strategic in your role. By welcoming feedback, you demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement, which is a hallmark of a true leader, and open yourself to new perspectives and growth opportunities.
5. BE ACCOUNTABLE
Leadership, regardless of your title, is fundamentally about accountability. It involves taking ownership of your actions, decisions, and the impact you have within your organization. To drive change in your career and the broader profession, you must hold yourself accountable for your growth. Set clear, actionable goals for what you want to achieve and regularly review your progress. When setbacks occur, view them as learning opportunities rather than failures. Accountability also means being an advocate for your role. By actively demonstrating your impact and articulating the strategic importance of your contributions, you pave the way for broader recognition of the executive support role as an integral component of organizational success. This sense of personal accountability empowers you to take control of your professional growth and impact.
Change doesn't happen to those who wait passively; it comes to those who take bold, deliberate action. If you are passionate about your career in executive support, it's up to you to actively nurture and cultivate it. This journey involves investing in your growth, seeking constructive feedback, and holding yourself accountable. In doing so, you become a catalyst for change—for yourself and the entire executive support community. Real, lasting change begins with individual efforts collectively driving the profession forward.
Embrace this journey with confidence and determination. Every step you take toward personal growth contributes to the broader mission of elevating the executive support role to its rightful place as a strategic partner in the business world. Your efforts today will pave the way for future generations of executive support professionals to be seen, valued, and respected as the strategic contributors they are.
Change comes to those who DO, not those who wait. If you love your career, nourish it, nurture it.