Elevate Your Executive Assistant Skills: A Guide to Strategic Thinking

As Executive Assistants (EAs) transition into more senior roles—supporting board members, C-suite executives, or operating at a strategic level—the expectations shift dramatically. What once impressed, such as efficiency and responsiveness, is no longer enough.

At the executive level, interviews focus less on whether you can complete tasks and more on whether you can think like a strategic partner.

Yet many capable EAs fall into the trap of describing what they do, rather than how they think. They focus on tools and checklists, rather than their approach to solving problems, managing ambiguity, or aligning with business goals.

To stand out, use this five-step thinking framework to structure your interview answers and demonstrate the mindset senior leaders are looking for.

1. Begin with the Core Issue, Not the Tools

Avoid jumping straight to software or daily tasks. Instead, show that you understand the broader challenge or strategic problem behind the question.

Example Question: “How do you manage a demanding and constantly changing executive calendar?”

Answer: “Before diving into scheduling tools, I focus on aligning the executive’s time with business priorities. That means understanding which meetings and decisions are mission-critical and which can be delegated or postponed. Once that’s clear, I structure the calendar around those priorities—so the executive is spending time where it matters most.”

This demonstrates you’re not just managing time—you’re enabling strategic focus.

2. Explain the Bigger Picture

Don’t just describe what you did—explain why it mattered and how it supported the broader business or leadership goal.

Example Question: “Tell me about your involvement in planning a senior leadership offsite.”

Answer: “This wasn’t just an event—it was the first time the executive team had come together after a major restructuring. I saw my role as enabling strategic clarity and connection. From the choice of venue to the flow of the agenda, every detail was designed to encourage open conversation, build trust, and align everyone around the new direction.”

You’re not just a planner—you’re a strategic facilitator.

3. Demonstrate Balanced Decision-Making Under Pressure

Executives value assistants who can make smart decisions when priorities conflict. Show how you assess urgency, importance, and business impact.

Example Question: “How do you manage simultaneous demands from multiple senior leaders?”

Answer: “I evaluate both urgency and importance. I ask: What’s truly time-sensitive? What has the greatest impact on the business? What’s mission-critical? I also consider the risks of delay and who else is affected. Sometimes the most urgent task isn’t the most important. I make these decisions carefully and communicate proactively to manage expectations and maintain trust.”

This highlights your judgement, not just your efficiency.

4. Offer More Than One Viable Approach

Instead of offering a single solution, outline a few realistic paths. This shows flexibility and structured thinking.

Example Question: “How would you support a new executive relocating from overseas?”

Answer: “There are several approaches:

• Option A: I take full ownership of the relocation process—managing everything from housing to onboarding.

• Option B: We use a relocation consultancy, and I act as their internal liaison to ensure consistency and quality.

• Option C: A hybrid approach—external support for logistics, with me focusing on executive onboarding, key introductions, and ensuring a smooth cultural transition.”

  
  

By giving structured options, you show you can adapt to different executive needs and organisational resources.

5. Recommend a Clear, Informed Course of Action

After laying out the options, choose one. Be confident in your judgement.

Example (continued): “In this case, I’d recommend Option C. It balances efficiency with personalisation—ensuring the executive feels supported without placing the full burden internally. It also allows me to focus on the areas that will have the greatest long-term impact.”

This demonstrates decisiveness and strategic clarity—exactly what senior leaders want in a partner.

Strategic Support Is About Mindset, Not Just Skillset

Executive interviews aren’t designed to test how many systems you’ve used or how quickly you respond to emails. They’re assessing your ability to think—clearly, strategically, and in alignment with the goals of the business.

Whether you're managing a CEO’s time, handling confidential board matters, or navigating organisational change, the difference between a good EA and a great one is not just in what they do—but how they think.

So the next time you prepare for a senior-level interview, don’t just focus on your task list. Focus on your thought process. That’s what sets you apart.

The Importance of Strategic Thinking in Executive Roles

Strategic thinking is crucial for EAs at the executive level. It allows you to anticipate challenges and propose solutions that align with the company's objectives.

Understanding Business Goals

To be effective, you must understand the business's goals. This knowledge enables you to prioritise tasks that support these objectives.

Building Relationships

Strong relationships with executives and team members are essential. They foster collaboration and open communication, which are vital for strategic success.

Continuous Learning

The business landscape is ever-changing. Continuous learning helps you stay ahead. Attend workshops, read industry publications, and seek mentorship to enhance your skills.

Embracing Technology

Technology can streamline processes and improve efficiency. Familiarise yourself with the latest tools that can aid your work and enhance your strategic contributions.

Conclusion: Stand Out as a Strategic Partner

In conclusion, to excel as an Executive Assistant, you must adopt a strategic mindset. Focus on how you think, not just what you do. This approach will set you apart in interviews and in your career.

About the Author: Richard Arnott, BA, FInatAM, FIToL, is a Director of BMTG (UK) Ltd, and the author and lead presenter of the groundbreaking, globally recognised Advanced Certificate for the Executive Assistant: ACEA® program. Richard also sits on the editorial board of Lucy Brazier OBE Executive Support Magazine.

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