Working so closely with your Executive means it's only a matter of time until you deal with privileged information. A part of an EAs role is knowing how to manage this properly, and understanding why discretion and confidentiality are so important to the role.

Why is discretion important as an EA?

To be able to perform well as an EA, you need to be discreet. Your Executive has to be able to share a lot of confidential information with you, and know that it will go no further. Being privvy to everything behind the scenes can be difficult, and learning how to manage it professionally is important.

Knowing that someone is being let go, or being aware of a potential large business contract that's being negotiated, can be the type of information that can damage a company if it gets out when it shouldn't. Other material can affect morale and team dynamics. Making sure that you are discreet with what you know is essential. Always be vigilant when information is in your care, and make sure it's never left where others can gain access to it.

Keeping confidential information secure is necessary as an EA.

Building trust with your Executive

Having a strong working relationship with your Executive allows you to do your job well. However, this can take a while to build on both sides.

One of the ways to help create trust in the partnership is by showing your Executive that anything that passes your way goes no further. Maintaining confidentiality, even with information that might not be sensitive, is a good way to do this.

Having a high level of professionalism can only reflect well on you and lets open communication to develop. It allows your Executive to use you as a sounding board when trying to resolve sensitive issues, confident in the fact that you will keep it confidential.

Avoiding workplace talk

Being so closely associated with your Executive means that others will know you have access to privileged information. Be aware of this when there is workplace talk going on. Some may press for you to tell them things, curious to know what happens behind the scenes, and it's important to be ready to politely, but firmly, rebuff them. 

It can be better to remove yourself from these discussions altogether. Even if people aren't actively seeking information, there is still risk involved. It can be hard to remember what is confidential at times, and too easy to let something slip when chatting about work matters with others. 

Should a mistake occur, which they do, the best thing to do is discuss it with your Executive immediately. That way they are aware of the situation, and you can work together to solve it.

EAs need a lot of skills to do their jobs well. If you're looking for advice and help, check out our blog to learn more.