Working as an EA

An executive assistant (or EA) works in a collaborative capacity for high level professionals within a business.
This position provides exposure to the inner workings of a business and its 'big picture' goals.
What qualifications do I need?
EA roles typically require candidates to show solid PA and/or office management experience. Relationship building is a key skill requirement as the dynamic between the EA and the person they support is crucial to success.
EAs will often have undertaken the following courses:
- Project management
- Business management
Advanced level training on PowerPoint, excel and accounting systems
Key attributes
To be a great EA, you need a certain set of traits which can't be found in a book; namely patience, multitasking, attention to detail, a positive outlook and a sense of humour.
A successful EA needs the following key attributes:
- Organisational skills - EAs often get involved in complex diary. travel and event management
- Professionalism - you will often act on behalf of the person you are supporting
- Communication skills - EAs deal with key business stakeholders
- Strong business acumen - you need to be able to learn the workings of the business
Salaries
To be a great EA, you need a certain set of traits which can't be found in a book; namely patience, multitasking, attention to detail, a positive outlook and a sense of humour.
EAs can command salaries from $60-$80k+ depending on their level of experience and the industry they work in.
Executive Assistant Career Prospects
A successful EA can move between industries to increase their breadth of experience.
View the current EA opportunities our Auckland and Wellington teams are currently recruiting.
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