Have you ever found yourself in a job where your boss does nothing, and you’re left wondering how to make the most of your time? If you’re an Executive Assistant or Office Administrator to a seemingly disengaged boss, this scenario might sound all too familiar. It’s a frustrating position to be in, especially when you’re eager to contribute and grow professionally.
Here’s how you can navigate this tricky situation and turn it into an opportunity.
Understand the Reality
First, it’s essential to understand the reality of your situation. Your boss, the owner of the company, may not be actively involved in daily operations. Instead, he focuses on maintaining his public image through social media, leaving you with little to do.
While this might seem like a negative situation, it’s important to view it objectively. Your role exists to support him, regardless of how he chooses to spend his time.
Make Yourself Indispensable
Take Initiative in Other Roles
Since your primary role as an EA is underutilised, take the initiative to explore other roles within the company. Identify areas where you can contribute meaningfully. Whether it’s helping out in HR, marketing, or project management, offering your skills to different departments can keep you engaged and demonstrate your versatility.
Develop New Skills
Use your spare time to develop new skills that can benefit both you and the company. Enroll in online courses, attend workshops, or earn certifications relevant to your industry. Skills in project management, digital marketing, or even advanced software tools can make you more valuable and open doors for career advancement.
Support Your Boss’s Interests
Engage with what your boss is interested in, even if it seems trivial. If he’s focused on Instagram, learn about social media marketing and offer to manage or improve his social media presence. Ask questions like, “How are your posts performing?” or “What goals do you have for your Instagram account?” This not only shows initiative but also aligns your efforts with his interests, potentially opening up more meaningful tasks.
Address Unfair Treatment
Document Incidents
If you’re experiencing unfair treatment from other managers or colleagues, document these incidents meticulously. Keep a record of emails, conversations, and any evidence that supports your case. This documentation will be crucial if you need to escalate the issue.
Communicate with Your Boss
Even if your boss seems disinterested, it’s important to communicate your concerns. Schedule a brief meeting and present your case clearly and calmly. Use phrases like, “I’ve noticed some challenges in my interactions with [Manager’s Name]. Here’s what happened and how it affects my work.” Focus on how these issues impact your ability to perform your role effectively.
Seek Support from HR
If your boss fails to address the issue, escalate it to HR. Provide them with your documentation and explain the situation. HR can intervene and mediate to ensure a fair working environment.
Make the Most of Your Position
Build Relationships with Other Executives
Use your position to build relationships with other executives and leaders within the company. Offer to assist them with projects or administrative tasks. This not only keeps you busy but also expands your network and exposes you to different aspects of the business.
Create Your Own Projects
Identify “important but not urgent” projects that could benefit the company and propose to take them on. This could be anything from improving internal processes to organizing company events. By creating your own projects, you show initiative and a proactive attitude.
Reflect and Plan Your Career
Use this time to reflect on your career goals and plan your next steps. What skills do you need to advance? What type of role do you see yourself in the future? Set clear, actionable goals and work towards them, even if it means eventually looking for a new job that offers more opportunities for growth.
Your Next 7 Steps
To turn your current situation into a positive experience, follow these steps:
- Explore Other Roles: Identify areas within the company where you can contribute and offer your assistance.
- Develop New Skills: Invest in learning new skills through online courses or certifications.
- Engage with Your Boss’s Interests: Show initiative by supporting his interests and offering to manage related tasks.
- Document Unfair Treatment: Keep detailed records of any incidents and communicate your concerns to your boss or HR.
- Build Relationships: Network with other executives and leaders in the company to expand your opportunities.
- Create Projects: Identify and propose projects that could benefit the company and take the lead on them.
- Reflect and Plan: Use this time to reflect on your career goals and set actionable steps to achieve them.
By taking these proactive steps, you can transform a seemingly idle role into a valuable and productive experience, ensuring you continue to grow professionally while contributing meaningfully to your organisation.