Executive Assistant

Executive secretaries and executive administrative assistants provide high-level administrative support by conducting research, handling information requests, preparing correspondence, and managing schedules for senior executives. The BLS reports a median salary of $67,740 with a slight decline projected as technology automates some tasks. However, executive assistants who develop project management, data analysis, and strategic planning skills remain in strong demand.

A Day in the Life

A typical day starts by reviewing the executive's calendar and confirming meetings, adjusting for last-minute changes. Mid-morning involves preparing a briefing packet for an afternoon board meeting, including financial summaries and talking points. After lunch, the assistant coordinates travel arrangements for an upcoming conference, books flights and hotels, and creates an itinerary. Late afternoon includes drafting emails on behalf of the executive, filing expense reports, and screening incoming calls and correspondence.

Key Stats

Education

Associate Degree

Salary Range

Entry: $42,000

Median: $67,740

Senior: $95,000

Job Growth

-1%Declining

Required Skills

OrganizationCommunicationCalendar ManagementMicrosoft OfficeDiscretion