These days, many people overextend themselves and try to manage everything without enough support. However, this often leads to personal burnout and certain aspects of one’s life being neglected. One of the best solutions to this is hiring an assistant to take care of certain tasks. This allows you to focus on what’s most important.
But when weighing the pros and cons of executive assistant vs. administrative assistant, which one is right for you?
The Executive Assistant’s Job
The main thing that distinguishes an executive assistant is that this professional is a senior office staff member specifically assigned to a top executive. This professional focuses on the important work of a high-level leader. They help that leader be more productive. Common executive assistant tasks include calendar management, email inbox management, making business travel arrangements, and coordinating meetings.
To be effective in this line of work, an executive assistant must have certain qualities, such as being able to anticipate needs. They must also be adaptable and resourceful. Having a tech-savvy skillset, a drive for productivity, and a willingness to volunteer for special projects will also help an executive assistant be successful on the job.
The Administrative Assistant’s Job
Meanwhile, an administrative assistant typically provides a lower level of support but is still a great asset to have for daily tasks. Administrative assistants often have less experience than executive assistants and handle more basic administrative duties that are time-consuming and tedious.
Administrative assistants often specialize in recording meeting minutes, organizing files, and maintaining calendars. They can also help you with bookkeeping, sending and receiving emails, billing duties, and ordering supplies for the office.
Do You Need an Executive Assistant or Administrative Assistant?
Both executive assistants and administrative assistants work in business settings and provide support to busy professionals. Both types of assistants must be highly organized, understand the importance of confidentiality, and use discretion when necessary.
However, it is best to hire an executive assistant if you want someone to research solutions to complex problems. You should also consider them if you need someone to have high-level business conversations with and handle more significant material regularly. Many powerful leaders treat their executive assistants as trusted colleagues. They work very closely with them to make the right decisions for their business.
But if you only need help with simpler and recurring tasks, such as scheduling and organizing, an administrative assistant might be the better choice. If you train an administrative assistant well and develop a great working relationship, you may be able to transition him or her into an executive assistant role in the future. This is possible once enough experience and trust are gained.
Use Pavillion to Find the Best Assistant
Whether you could benefit from hiring an executive assistant or an administrative assistant, Pavillion Agency is your go-to resource for finding the best candidates. Since 1962, we have been making connections between individuals, professionals, and domestic employees. We are the largest household staffing agency in the nation. At Pavillion, we have access to the very best executive assistants and administrative assistants in the industry to meet your business needs. This helps you do what’s best for your office staff and company goals.
If you are ready to hire an assistant to help you with your business or personal life, browse available candidates on our website or fill out our application to tell us more about your needs.
