7 Strategies For How To Work Effectively With Your EA
Jul 25, 2024
auto_awesome
Shannon Waller, a specialist in strategic partnerships and productivity enhancement, shares compelling strategies for optimizing teamwork with executive assistants. She emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit using tools like DISC and CliftonStrengths. Effective communication is highlighted through the use of a communication builder to enhance collaboration. Daily check-ins boost energy and productivity, while granting access to emails and calendars allows for smoother task management. Finally, Waller underscores the power of appreciation in strengthening partnerships.
Selecting the right executive assistant is essential, requiring a compatible work style assessment using tools like DISC and CliftonStrengths.
Effective communication strategies, such as daily check-ins and utilizing the Communication Builder, significantly enhance teamwork and productivity.
Deep dives
Finding the Right Support Partner
A crucial step in optimizing teamwork with an executive assistant is selecting the right individual for the role. This involves identifying a candidate who genuinely thrives in a support position, rather than someone who is ambitious to take on the leader's responsibilities. Effective collaboration requires complementary work styles, so utilizing tools like DISC and Clifton Strengths can help assess compatibility. Clear communication about the role's expectations upon hiring sets the tone for a productive partnership going forward.
Enhancing Communication Through Tools
Implementing effective communication strategies is vital in nurturing a strong working relationship. Utilizing tools such as the Communication Builder can highlight individual preferences in giving and receiving information, thus preventing misunderstandings. For instance, knowing whether a team member prefers morning check-ins over late-night discussions can significantly enhance interaction quality. Regularly reviewing communication styles encourages transparency and can lead to smoother collaboration overall.
Daily Engagement for Ongoing Success
Establishing consistent engagement practices, such as daily check-ins, can significantly boost teamwork effectiveness. These meetings not only address the day's priorities but also foster a supportive atmosphere through practices like sharing positive focus updates. Additionally, adopting habitual strategies, such as CCing on emails to pass tasks efficiently, keeps all team members informed and involved in ongoing projects. Investing time in regular strategic planning meetings can also enhance productivity by aligning upcoming deadlines and responsibilities.
Are you looking to maximize your teamwork with your executive assistant? In this episode, Shannon Waller dives deep into the key strategies for a successful strategic partnership. From finding the right person to implementing daily habits and strategic planning meetings, you’ll discover how to triple your productivity effortlessly and elevate your teamwork to superpower status!
Finding The Right “Who”: It’s crucial to hire someone who thrives in a support role and complements your working style. Use tools like DISC and CliftonStrengths to ensure compatibility.
Communication Builder: This tool helps identify communication preferences and patterns, preventing conflicts and fostering better teamwork. It’s available for free at yourteamsuccess.com.
Daily Meetings: Regular check-ins, ideally daily, help keep both parties aligned and focused. Starting these meetings with a Positive Focus® elevates your energy levels, boosts productivity, and enhances confidence.
CC On Emails: Copying your assistant on relevant emails ensures seamless information transfer and task delegation.
Access To Email And Calendar: Granting your assistant full access to your email and calendar allows them to manage your schedule effectively, freeing you up to focus on high-priority tasks.
Appreciation: Regularly expressing gratitude and acknowledging each other’s contributions strengthens the partnership and boosts morale.
Strategic Planning Meetings: Holding these meetings every five to six weeks helps you plan and prioritize upcoming tasks and projects, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.