So you’re an Executive Assistant, and you want to know the next steps in your career. The next career step for an executive assistant can vary depending on individual aspirations, skills, and interests.
Here are a few potential paths that executive assistants may consider…
Senior Executive Assistant
Advancing to a senior executive assistant role is a natural progression for experienced professionals.
In this position, you would support high-level executives, take on additional responsibilities, and handle more complex tasks.
Senior executive assistants often have more decision-making authority and play a crucial role in strategic planning and decision support.
In our article about the highest-paying Executive Assistant roles, we explain that being an Executive Assistant to a C-level Executive is one of the more lucrative jobs an Executive Assistant can get. If you mix this level role, in an industry such as technology or healthcare, you can easily earn upwards of $100,000.
Office Manager
Transitioning into an office manager role is another common career path.
As an office manager, you would oversee the administrative operations of the entire office or department, manage a team of administrative staff, handle budgeting and resource allocation, and ensure the smooth functioning of day-to-day operations.
There is currently an Office Manager role available are Journey Clinical and they are offering $90,000 – $100,000 a year for this full-time role.
Project Management
If you have a knack for planning, organizing, and coordinating projects, transitioning into a project management role could be a viable option.
Project managers oversee the planning, execution, and successful completion of projects within an organization.
Simplilearn explains the role of a project manager concisely with the following description – “A project manager plans, organizes, and oversees a project from start to finish. They should guarantee that the project is finalized to the contentment of all stakeholders, within the designated budget and timeline. A project manager identifies the project’s goals, objectives, and scope and creates a project plan that outlines the tasks, timelines, and resources required.“
The organizational and communication skills developed as an executive assistant can be highly valuable in this field.
Specialized Administrative Roles
Depending on your interests and the industry you’re in, you may explore specialized administrative roles such as event management, travel coordination, or corporate communications.
These positions allow you to leverage your executive assistant experience while focusing on specific areas of expertise.
Executive Support in a Different Industry
Consider leveraging your executive support skills and transitioning into a similar role in a different industry.
While the core responsibilities remain similar, the industry shift can provide you with new challenges, learning opportunities, and the ability to apply your skills in a different context.
Our research has shown that roles in technology, healthcare, consulting, and legal industries pay higher than most other roles – so consider searching specifically for a role in these industries if you are simply wanting to maximize your income.
Human Resources
Executive assistants often handle confidential information, employee records, and interact with personnel across the organization.
Transitioning into a human resources role, particularly in HR administration or HR coordination, can be a logical step.
Your knowledge of company operations and strong interpersonal skills can be advantageous in this field.
Entrepreneurship or Consulting
Some experienced executive assistants choose to start their own consulting businesses or become virtual executive assistants, offering their expertise to multiple clients.
This path allows for greater flexibility, the opportunity to work with a variety of executives, and the potential to expand into other areas of consulting or entrepreneurship.
Summary
It’s important to note that these career paths are not exhaustive, and there may be other avenues based on individual circumstances and goals.
Assess your skills, interests, and long-term objectives to determine the most suitable next step in your career as an executive assistant.
Additionally, continued professional development through courses, executive assistant certifications, and networking can open up new possibilities and enhance your marketability in the job market.
