The Hidden Power of Executive Assistants: Why It’s Time to Speak Up

Executive Assistants Are Leaders—It’s Time They Were Recognized as Such

Executive Assistants play a critical role in the success of organizations. They anticipate needs, solve problems before they escalate, and act as the strategic link between leadership and operations.

Yet, despite their influence, many EAs struggle to be recognized as true business partners. Their insights often go unheard, not because they lack value, but because traditional corporate structures do not always invite them into strategic conversations.

Companies that overlook their EAs as key contributors miss out on essential insights that could transform their business.

This International Women’s Day, we are challenging Executive Assistants to step into their influence with the #EAsSpeakUp Challenge—a call to action to use their voices, share their perspectives, and elevate their roles. Alongside this initiative, we are offering a free resource to help EAs confidently take their seat at the table.

Why Executive Assistants Must Speak Up

For too long, the role of an Executive Assistant has been seen primarily as administrative, rather than the strategic function it truly is. Many EAs hesitate to share their insights in meetings, not because they lack expertise, but because leadership conversations often prioritize executive voices.

However, Executive Assistants are uniquely positioned to provide value in ways that leadership alone cannot.

• They have a direct line of sight into executive priorities and challenges.
• They identify inefficiencies and operational gaps before they become major problems.
• They manage key relationships across departments, vendors, and stakeholders.

When an EA speaks up in meetings, suggests process improvements, or advocates for strategic change, they shift the perception of their role from administrative support to trusted business partner.

The EA Influence Checklist: A Guide to Strategic Leadership

To help EAs build confidence, communicate their value, and elevate their influence, we have created The EA Influence Checklist—a free resource designed to provide clear, actionable steps toward becoming a stronger strategic partner.

The checklist will help you:

• Assess where you currently stand as an EA with influence.
• Identify key actions to strengthen your strategic presence.
• Gain confidence in meetings and decision-making discussions.

Download the EA Influence Checklist to start building your influence today.

Join the #EAsSpeakUp Challenge for International Women’s Day

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we are launching #EAsSpeakUp, a challenge to encourage Executive Assistants to step into their leadership potential.

How to participate:

1. Download the EA Influence Checklist to set a foundation for your professional growth.
2. Share your experience by commenting on the blog or joining the discussion in The Future Focused Admin Community. What is one time you spoke up at work and saw an impact?
3. Set a goal for the month. If speaking up feels challenging, what is one step you will take to build confidence in your contributions?

For those who want to take it further, we encourage sharing insights on LinkedIn using #EAsSpeakUp to inspire and support fellow Executive Assistants.

Final Thoughts: The Future of EA Leadership Starts Now

Executive Assistants are more than gatekeepers and task managers—they are strategic professionals whose insights can shape company success. As more EAs step into their influence, the perception of this role will continue to shift from administrative to advisory.

If you are ready to elevate your voice and expand your impact, start today.

Download the EA Influence Checklist now and join the discussion in The Future Focused Admin Community.

This International Women’s Day, let’s amplify the voices of Executive Assistants and redefine the future of this profession.

Related Content: Elevating the EA Role with Darcy

If you’re looking for even more insights on how Executive Assistants can step into their influence, don’t miss our latest episode featuring Darcy, where we dive into:

• Why EAs are often an untapped strategic resource in organizations
• How to build confidence and speak up in high-level meetings
• The key mindset shifts that can transform your role from support to strategic partner

Listen to the full conversation and gain actionable takeaways to strengthen your presence in the workplace.

Listen to the Episode Now