The Hidden Techniques Used to Gain Unmatched Respect from C-Suite Executives

“Respect isn’t given; it’s earned through consistent excellence and strategic action.” – Unknown

Hello EA-Pros Community,

Have you ever wondered what makes some executive assistants stand out and gain immense respect from C-suite leaders? It’s not just about efficiency—it’s about mastering key techniques that elevate your role from supportive to strategic. This week, we’re diving into those hidden methods that can transform how you’re perceived and ensure you’re recognized as a vital strategic partner.

EXCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITY FOR ASSISTANTS 👇

Transform Your Career with the ElevateEA Master Strategy Class!

Ready to step into your power and become an unshakeable pillar of strategic support? Our ElevateEA Master Strategy Class provides exclusive insights and proven frameworks to elevate your influence and impact. Sign up now and become the respected leader your executive can’t work without.

EA INSIGHTS

GAINING RESPECT FROM C-SUITE EXECUTIVES

C-suite executives are inundated with demands and decisions. When you demonstrate that you understand and prioritize what’s most important to them, you elevate yourself from just another support figure to a trusted strategic advisor.

1. Have Regular Priority Check-Ins: Set up brief, recurring conversations with your executive to confirm their top priorities. This keeps you aligned and helps you anticipate their needs.

2. Use Their Language: Familiarize yourself with your executive’s goals and objectives. When communicating, frame your updates and ideas in a way that speaks directly to these goals.

3. Document and Track Impact: Keep a record of how your actions and initiatives have advanced your executive’s priorities. This not only helps you during performance reviews but also subtly reinforces your strategic value.

Delivering Solutions, Not Problems
C-suite leaders don’t want to hear about problems; they want solutions. By bringing actionable ideas to the table, you show initiative and strategic thinking—qualities that command respect.

1. Anticipate the “What’s Next” Question: When presenting a challenge, always have at least two solutions prepared. For instance, instead of saying, “The project is delayed,” you could say, “The project is delayed, but here are two strategies to get it back on track.”

2. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Your demeanor in stressful situations affects how your executive perceives you. Stay composed, present your solutions, and be ready to adapt based on their feedback.

The Art of Setting Boundaries with Assertiveness
Setting boundaries is crucial to maintaining your well-being and effectiveness, but it must be done with tact and assertiveness. Executives respect assistants who can assertively communicate their limits while remaining responsive and adaptable.

1. Communicate Availability Clearly: Let your executive know when you’re most reachable for high-priority tasks and when you need focused time for strategic work. For example, “I’m available for urgent needs from 8-10 AM. From 10-12, I’ll be working on the quarterly report.”

2. Practice the “Yes, And” Technique: When faced with an unreasonable request, acknowledge it, and propose an alternative. For example, “Yes, I can handle that. And to ensure it’s done well, I’ll need to reschedule our prep for tomorrow.”

COACHING MOMENT

Ask an Executive Coach

Every week I take a question from you and provide a bit of strategic advice.

This week's question: “How can I assert my ideas confidently without feeling overstepping?”