Imagine this: You meticulously manage your executive's schedule, anticipating every need and resolving logistical nightmares before they even arise. You handle confidential information with discretion, anticipating their thoughts and finishing sentences before they need to be spoken. You´re the go-to person for every query, and the executor of every project. Yet, a nagging feeling persists: Is my hard work truly appreciated?
The Science of Feeling Valued: Excelling in Executive Support
Genuine appreciation isn't just a morale booster; it's the rocket fuel that powers exceptional executive support. Our brains crave belonging and recognition. Research by Harvard professor Teresa Amabile highlights that acknowledging a team's contribution leads to increased creativity, engagement, and productivity. Appreciation activates the reward pathways in our brains, releasing dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter that fuels motivation and happiness. But not all compliments are created equal. Performative praise feels hollow, while genuine appreciation, grounded in specific actions and achievements, resonates deeply. We´ve all heard the saying “Actions speak louder than words” and this is as true in the workplace as anywhere else. The difficulty here is in ensuring you have your need for recognition met, whilst maintaining your professionalism. In our private life, we might have appreciation shown to us by being taken out to dinner, or being given a foot massage. Needless to say, this would probably raise some eyebrows in the workplace. So how do we ensure that our need for recognition is met whilst avoiding becoming needy?
Create the culture you wish to live in.
Although you may not always see it, your influence as an EA can be profound. As an integral part of the organisation, you probably interact with a wider variety of people within your organisation than anyone else. From executives, to fellow EAs, to heads of department, your working reach spreads far and wide within your company and beyond. So use that influence to start creating the sort of encouraging vibrant community that you want to be a part of.
Sing people's praises, publicly and privately. We´ve all met the person that doesn´t pass the praise on when it´s due, and it´s not only infuriating but deeply demoralising. Acknowledge achievements in team meetings, highlight their expertise in conversations, and quite simply, give credit where credit is due. You´d be surprised at how far that will go in encouraging a ripple effect.
Tailor your appreciation. Some people need a round of applause, whilst for others, a small pat on the back is more welcome. Get to know their preferences and personalize your approach.
Celebrate the small wins. A "thank you" for staying late or handling a difficult situation goes a long way, but so does recognition of a recommendation for a restaurant, or help with a presentation. Remember, a culture is created from the ground up.
Open the communication channels. Regular feedback loops create opportunities for open and honest dialogue about expectations, contributions, and appreciation needs.
"Take care of your employees, and they will take care of your business. As simple as that."- Richard Branson
When you feel valued, magic happens. Job satisfaction soars, stress melts away, and collaboration flourishes. When individuals and a team feel collectively appreciated, work productivity soars. You'll tackle challenges with renewed enthusiasm, unleashing your creative problem-solving skills. That extra effort you give becomes second nature, fueled by the knowledge that your impact is recognized.
But what if despite your best efforts, appreciation seems to be a one-way street? Don´t despair, there is a way around it. We´ve all heard people speak about “love language” and it´s as true in any sort of relationship, not just personal ones. Be aware that what you might need in order to feel valued may simply be very different to what your Executive or management may. More likely than not, they don´t know that you don´t feel appreciated, so here´s where you might need to be a little more forthright in your approach.
Communication is key. Have an open and honest conversation with your executive about your experience. Set clear expectations and boundaries to ensure your efforts are aligned with their needs. Don´t expect a high five after every meeting, but do make clear that some recognition is appreciated and deserved.
Focus on your own growth. Invest in your professional development, acquire new skills, and celebrate your personal achievements. Remember, your value extends beyond your role and when your confidence grows in other aspects of your life it will permeate into your professional life. The more personally confident you are in your abilities, the less you´ll rely on external validation.
Build a support network. Lean on mentors, peers, or professional organizations for guidance and encouragement. Share your experiences with others who understand your challenges and truly know the efforts you make within your role. Find your tribe and they will lift you up.
"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." – Maya Angelou
Try and ensure your team feel appreciated, and you'll be amazed at the level of support you unlock. And I don´t mean throwing a pizza party, congealed greasy cheese makes absolutely no one feel special. So take the time to figure out what will and then do your best to implement it. A small gesture goes a long way, and oftentimes, simple acknowledgement of the effort can do the trick. But appreciation is a two-way street. Encourage your colleagues to express their gratitude as well. Together, you can build a working environment fueled by mutual respect and recognition, empowering you to achieve extraordinary things.
Lovely article.