Starting a career as an Executive Assistant sounds simple, but there are a few important steps you need to consider. It’s more than preparing a CV and blasting it out to dozens of companies you find online.
You need to consider if this is really the career you want.
You’ll need to think about what industry you want to be an Executive Assistant in. Perhaps it’s healthcare, or technology, or the entertainment industry?
Then you can start the process of preparing to apply for jobs and ace the interview.
We’ve written this guide for anyone wanting to know how to start their career as an Executive Assistant, so you can get started on the right root, and land a job quickly with as little stress as possible.
Let’s get started!
Confirm this is the right career for you
Research the role: Gain a thorough understanding of the responsibilities, qualifications, and skills required for an executive assistant position.
Research the industry or sectors you are interested in, as well as the specific demands of supporting high-level executives.
Remember that some specific industries have more high-paying Executive Assistant jobs than others – so think about what industry you’d like to work in also.
Preparing to become an Executive Assistant
Develop relevant skills
Identify the key skills needed for an executive assistant role and work on developing them.
These skills may include organizational abilities, communication, time management, attention to detail, problem-solving, and proficiency in relevant software and tools.
Seek out opportunities to enhance these skills through courses, workshops, or online certification courses.
Gain administrative experience
Look for opportunities to gain practical administrative experience, even if it’s not in an executive assistant capacity.
Seek internships, part-time positions, or volunteer roles that involve administrative tasks.
This experience will help you understand the dynamics of an office environment and build a foundation of relevant skills.
Network and seek mentorship
Build connections within the industry by attending networking events, joining professional associations, or engaging with online communities.
Connect with executive assistants or professionals working in similar roles and seek mentorship or guidance.
Their insights can help you understand the field better and potentially provide job leads or recommendations.
Applying for jobs
Tailor your resume and cover letter
Customize your resume and cover letter to highlight your transferable skills, relevant experience, and education.
Emphasize your organizational abilities, attention to detail, communication skills, and any administrative or support roles you’ve held.
Clearly articulate your motivation for pursuing an executive assistant career and your willingness to learn and grow in the role.
Apply for entry-level positions
Look for entry-level executive assistant positions or roles that provide a pathway to becoming an executive assistant.
Be prepared to start in a more junior administrative role and work your way up by gaining experience and proving your capabilities.
Prepare for interviews
Research common interview questions for executive assistant roles and prepare thoughtful answers that highlight your skills, experiences, and ability to handle the challenges of the position.
Practice mock interviews to gain confidence and refine your responses.
What’s next?
Be open to learning and growth
Once you secure an executive assistant role, embrace the opportunity to learn and grow.
Be proactive in seeking feedback, identifying areas for improvement, and taking advantage of professional development opportunities.
Continuously expand your skill set and stay updated on industry trends.
Remember that building a career as an executive assistant may take time and involve starting from entry-level positions.
Be patient, persistent, and willing to take on additional responsibilities to gain the necessary experience and advance in your career.
