Are you swamped with a constant influx of emails and requests? Consider delegating access to your executive assistant (EA). Doing so will enable you to be proactive instead of reactive, and stay ahead of the game.
I understand the concept may raise concerns, at first. But I assure you this is a widely accepted business practice that offers substantial advantages. With the right person on board – someone who knows their stuff, takes initiative, and has your back – you’ll be amazed at how much more you can get done. Empowering them to manage day-to-day operations will revolutionize your productivity.
In my experience, providing your executive assistant with email access is the most efficient way for them to gain a comprehensive understanding of your needs. Why? Easy, training. They’ll be able to quickly absorb crucial information that would otherwise take months to learn.
If you’re hesitant, take a month or two to get a feel for their maturity level and effectiveness before handing over the keys to the kingdom. Alternatively, consider providing your EA with some coaching or mentorship from a more senior EA. This would give them an opportunity to learn best practices and how to effectively manage your inbox. Resonate Growth can help with this.
That said, there are some scenarios where this practice may not be appropriate.
Delegating your email is a strategic move that can significantly boost your productivity and efficiency as an executive. By entrusting your assistant with this responsibility, you’re freeing up valuable time and mental space. In addition, you’re empowering them to take greater ownership of your workflow.
When your assistant has full access to your email communications, they can learn and adapt faster. Gaining a deeper understanding of your business, your clients, and your priorities. As they become more immersed in your daily operations, they can identify patterns, anticipate your needs, and therefore take the initiative to address issues or opportunities before they even reach your attention.
Think about how often you forward emails to your EA or copy them on a response, triggering them to act. Granting them email access will eliminate much of that, as they’ll know what is being requested simply by handling your email.
You’ll have administrative work taken off your plate, allowing you to concentrate on strategic planning, client relationships, and other essential executive responsibilities. As a result, meetings with your EA will then focus on status updates, planning, and strategy instead of unresolved email requests.
Increased responsibility can have a profound impact on job satisfaction. Feeling empowered and valued, your assistant will be more engaged, motivated, and likely to go the extra mile to ensure your business runs smoothly.
In time, your assistant becomes more tied to your work and the outcomes you’re aiming for. As a result the partnership between you will grow stronger. This synergistic relationship will not only enable you to achieve increased productivity and efficiency, but also greater success in your role.
If the perks I’ve rattled off sound appealing, why not try it? After all, they can’t learn to read your mind if you don’t open a window into it. This will enable you to move from playing catch-up to staying ahead of the game!
Your assistant is the key to unlocking your full potential. Imagine having your needs anticipated, your schedule managed with precision, and tasks handled with unparalleled efficiency. An assistant who gets to know your business so well that they can delegate tasks and manage projects to completion without you being involved.
Achieve this well-oiled machine by investing in your assistant’s growth with an experienced coach. When your assistant feels empowered and supported, job satisfaction increases. They’re also more likely to go above and beyond, bring fresh ideas, and collaborate more effectively.
My coaching transforms good assistants into exceptional ones, empowering them to optimize your workflows and free up your time. With my guidance, your assistant will learn strategies to streamline your inbox, optimize your calendar, and provide exceptional support. Bottom line – they’ll evolve from an executive assistant to an executive business partner.
Reach your true potential by helping them reach theirs. With the right coach in their corner, you’ll unlock new levels of productivity and ROI that will pay dividends.
Brenna is a former Silicon Valley operations leader turned startup whisperer, using her own battle scars and tales of victory to guide others through the land of unicorns and disruptors.
