Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to scale your leadership, achieve velocity, and still have time to focus on what matters most? It took me years to realize that I could not do everything on my own - and that having a trusted partner to delegate to empowered me to do a better job and accomplish so much more!
In a recent episode of The Next Interview Show, I sat down with Teresa L'Heureux, my former executive assistant who became my trusted partner. Together, we explored how an EA is more than just a support role—they're a catalyst for driving results, building trust, and unlocking a leader's potential.
The Power of Partnership in Leadership
Leaders often believe they must shoulder all the responsibilities themselves to maintain control and authority. As a matter of fact, I believe this is more common place than we realize. I call it the SILENT KILLER OF EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP.
Teresa's story proves otherwise. By partnering with her executives as a strategic ally, she demonstrated how EAs can amplify leadership effectiveness. Through trust, curiosity, and a focus on continuous growth, Teresa transformed the role of an EA from an administrative function into a cornerstone of organizational success.
"An effective EA is more than just an assistant; they're a partner in leadership, helping you scale and lead at velocity." - Teresa L'Heureux
Lessons Learned
Trust Transforms Relationships:
Leaders who trust their EAs create a dynamic partnership that enhances efficiency. Trust enables leaders to delegate with confidence, knowing their strategic objectives are in capable hands.
Curiosity Drives Growth:
Teresa emphasized the importance of asking "why" and "how" to uncover the deeper needs behind executive tasks. This mindset fosters innovation and ensures the EA can provide meaningful support.
Continuous Improvement is Key:
Pursuing certifications like Agile and project management or enhancing communication skills makes EAs invaluable. Leaders who encourage and recognize this growth amplify the impact on their teams and organizations.
Pro Tips for Taking Action
Leaders: Empower Your EA with Responsibility:
Start small by delegating a project or task and providing clear objectives. Over time, increase their scope as trust builds.
EAs: Invest in Yourself:
Pursue training and certifications that align with your executive's needs. Skills like project management, advanced communication, and task management tools (e.g., Asana) will set you apart.
Build a Feedback Loop:
Regularly review outcomes with your EA or team, focusing on what worked and what can improve. This builds alignment, trust, and better results.
"Curiosity and confidence are the secret sauce to excelling as an EA—it's about asking the right questions and delivering solutions." - Teresa L'Heureux
Why These Lessons Matter
For aspiring leaders, these lessons highlight the importance of cultivating a high-trust environment and embracing support as a strength, not a weakness. Professionally, this creates space for leaders to focus on strategic goals. Personally, it fosters balance, preventing burnout and ensuring long-term success.
The Cost of Ignoring This Advice
When leaders fail to trust and empower their teams, they risk burnout, inefficiency, and decision fatigue. Without clear delegation and support, important opportunities are missed, and both leaders and organizations stagnate.
Alignment with the 4 Pillars
Trust and Autonomy: Building trust between leaders and EAs creates autonomy that accelerates decision-making and action.
Communication and Transparency: Clear and concise communication enhances collaboration and alignment.
Growth and Innovation: Continuous learning and upskilling reflect the growth mindset vital for success.
Systems of Accountability: Structured feedback loops ensure tasks align with goals and drive results.
Let's Empower Your Leadership Journey
Empowering leaders starts with taking the first step.
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