Why is communication so important as an EA? And why is such a high level needed for it? An Executive Assistant deals with a lot of people, constantly. Internally, you will talk with everyone from the bottom up. Externally, it may be with other companies, investors, board members, or vendors trying to get your company's business.
Why an EA needs to be a communication specialist
While dealing with this wide variety of people, you are your Executive's representative. Presenting a professional front and communicating clearly and efficiently is essential.
Working so closely with your Executive is another reason why you need excellent communication skills. To build a strong partnership you need to be able to converse openly, discussing difficult subjects and effectively relaying important information.
Communicating on behalf of your Executive
As an EA communicating on behalf of your Executive, good language skills are necessary. Careless errors in emails, or a lack of professionalism, needs to be avoided. Instead, figure out the image that your Executive wants to portray, and use that as a guideline at all times.
Brush up on basic language skills, reread any written communication you are sending out, and treat everyone with respect. Maintaining this standard will reflect well on both of you. It will also build up a network of people that you can call on when needing assistance.
You also need to know when to communicate, and when not to do so. Discretion is necessary. People might push you for information, but you need to be careful with what you share.
Communicating with your Executive
Learn how your Executive communicates best. If they prefer calls, try to limit the emails you send them. If they are visual, use that to your advantage in creating reminders or presenting reports.
Don't just be a 'yes-man' when it comes to giving feedback, but provide constructive criticism.
Become better at listening. Knowing they have your full focus when they are talking to you will reassure them that you are taking in the necessary information. Restate what you've heard to ensure that you understand what is required, and so they can provide clarification if needed.
Don't just be a sycophant when it comes to giving opinions on ideas that your Executive bounces off of you. Give constructive criticism, being careful to stay objective, and ensure your points are grasped properly and aren't misconstrued.
Be honest. Don't let negative emotions build, but create open communication about your working relationship. Celebrate the good, and work through the bad. This will build the trust and the strength of your partnership.
You can always improve your communication ability, and it's a skill that you need to practice. However, being an expert in this area will open doors, and put you in good stead for your position.