Startup Executive Assistant / Administrative Professional

Running any business requires taking on many tasks and responsibilities, but this is even more true in a startup. Startups are all about keeping up the momentum, putting systems and processes in place, and managing rapid growth, change and innovation. Without the right support, it will be difficult to juggle all these responsibilities and still focus on the main business goals. This is where the ideal Executive Assistant/Administrative Professional can take on key responsibilities and duties, enabling the Owner/Management to focus on what matters most for the business. 

A startup Executive Assistant/Administrative Professional must possess several specific skills in addition to traditional administrative support skills to be successful in the challenging environment of a startup business.

A startup admin/EA is one who can:

Wear multiple hats:
An admin/EA should be able to contribute to different tasks and responsibilities in a startup. As a startup EA, I have taken on several roles, like HR, Operations, Communications, Social media, Bookkeeping, Investor/stakeholder relations and Project management. 

Work under pressure:
Most startups have limited resources and time. This means having to achieve goals and milestones in a shorter time with fewer resources without compromising quality. There are times I have had to learn brand-new technology and implement a new process at the same time. 

Adapt quickly to change:
As startups evolve they undergo constant change, in the process, the product/service, structure etc. Everything changes and evolves all the time. As a startup admin/EA I have had to juggle and change gears quickly. I have had to constantly be on top of things, look out for changes happening, and look for where I can step in and help. 

Learn quickly:
A startup is a rapidly changing and growing environment. Therefore it is imperative for admin/EA to have a growth mindset when it comes to acquiring updated skills or mastering the latest technology. These days startups tend to be more tech-enabled. As a startup EA, I was always looking to learn new skills and techniques. Check out my article about professional development to learn more about how I constantly learn and improve myself.

While many startups do not consider hiring an admin or executive assistant, having a highly motivated, resilient, detail-oriented administrator who is willing to learn and adapt is most crucial to expediting growth.