How Invisibility Kills Your EA’s Perceived Value

Invisible Value is a phenomenon that happens over time as you work with your Executive Assistant (EA), and it’s something every leader should be aware of.

The Magic of Invisible Value

When you first start working with your EA, you notice every task they take off your plate. You feel the immediate relief of having more time to focus on high-priority activities. But as time goes on, your EA becomes so efficient at handling projects and tasks that their work becomes almost invisible. Things just get done seamlessly, and you no longer have to think about them. Out of sight, out of mind.

It’s the Promise Land you’ve been looking for and it’s also the #1 killer of EA-client relationships. 

While this is a testament to your EA’s effectiveness, it can also lead to an unintended consequence: you might start to question their value. After all, if you don’t see the work being done, it’s easy to forget how much they are actually handling behind the scenes.

Elevating Visible Value

This is why we coach our EAs to elevate their visible value through consistent communication and reporting. Here’s how we ensure that the invaluable work of your EA remains visible and appreciated:

1. Regular Updates and Reports 📊
   We encourage EAs to provide regular updates on their progress and accomplishments. This can be in the form of weekly or bi-weekly reports that highlight the tasks completed, ongoing projects, and any milestones achieved. Seeing a summary of their contributions can remind you of the immense value they bring to your business.
   
2. Proactive Communication 🗣️
   Your EA should proactively communicate about their work. Whether it’s a quick message to let you know a task is done or a heads-up about an upcoming deadline, these small touchpoints keep you in the loop and reinforce their ongoing support.
   
3. Celebrating Wins 🎉
   Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements and contributions of your EA. This not only boosts their morale but also serves as a reminder of the impact they have on your business. A simple thank-you or shout-out can go a long way.
   
4. Visual Dashboards and Tools 📈
   Implement visual tools like dashboards to track progress and performance. These tools can provide a real-time snapshot of the tasks and projects your EA is managing, making their contributions more tangible and visible.
   
5. Feedback Loop 🔄
   Establish a feedback loop where you and your EA regularly discuss what’s working well and what can be improved. This ongoing dialogue ensures that their work aligns with your goals and priorities, and it keeps you informed about their efforts.

Remember, the value of an EA is often in the seamless execution of tasks that free you up to focus on bigger things.

But to avoid the trap of Invisible Value, it’s crucial to maintain clear communication and visibility of their contributions. By doing so, you not only recognize and appreciate their work but also strengthen the partnership that drives your success.

So, take a moment today to elevate the visible value of your EA. Acknowledge their hard work and make sure their contributions are seen and celebrated.

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