Your micro reputation and why it is important! As Executive Assistants, we know that our impact goes far beyond diary juggling, inbox management and meeting logistics. As we discussed last month, we are often the first in line to influence how our Executives are perceived, both internally and externally. Whilst the big projects, successful events and high-ticket items get attention, it is often our micro-reputation, the small everyday behaviours that really shape trust, credibility and professional influence, for us and our executive. Your micro-reputation is quite simply, what others think of you. It is formed through dozens of interactions. Your communication, discretion, ability to meet deadlines and how you manage relationships all feed into how you are perceived in the workplace. Unlike your job title, your reputation is built day by day, often without you even being aware of it. In our roles, micro reputations are especially powerful, we often have influence, access to key decision makers and insight into the inner workings of the business. How we manage that influence determines how indispensable we become. 1. Micro reliability It may sound obvious, but your Executive and colleagues depend on you to get tasks done, without supervision and follow up. Your reputation will be judged on your ability to get items ticked off and the consistency to meet deadlines. EST10’s top tips… - Keep a running to-do list for your Executive and yourself.
- Clarify deadlines upfront and proactively flag potential issues.
- Finish tasks completely, don’t leave loose ends.
- Communicate early if delays arise or priorities shift.
Reliability builds trust. 2. Micro communication They way you communicate is a reflection of your boss. How you speak, show up, dress, listen and write are all communication points. It is not just what you communicate it is how and when! Keep communication professional, precise, accurate and clear. EST10’s top tips… - Tone and clarity in messaging.
- Proactively update necessary parties of any changes or updates.
- Display ‘active listening’ so you can comprehensively summarise and pre-empt questions.
- Ensure all briefing notes are concise, accurate and actionable.
Small, consistent communication behaviours make you appear competent, organised, and trustworthy. 3. Micro behaviour Your presence can set the tone for your executive’s interactions. It can also reflect on both formal and less formal situations. It is not just the day to day in the office, but lunch breaks, events, conferences etc. EST10’s top tips… - Everyone notices how you treat people, especially if you ‘don’t give anything back’.
- Be willing to take ownership of tasks and offer solutions, it won’t go unnoticed!
- Discretion is always paramount.
- Remaining calm, even when you don’t feel it will help keep you and those around you on an even keel.
These micro behaviours create a perception of professionalism and strategic thinking. Those who master consistency in professional behaviour and demeanour are quickly seen as trustworthy and placed in elevated positions. 4. Micro professionalism Professionalism is about the approach, care and consistency displayed in every task you handle. In our roles, this is critical, we are often the first reflection of our boss’s standards. EST10’s top tips… - Always be prepared well in advance for meetings and presentations.
- Ensure any documentation is accurate and polished.
- Manage diaries with strategic foresight, to avoid re-work further down the line.
- Focus on logistics, if these runs smoothly everything else slots into place.
Displaying impeccable attention to detail builds trust and increases confidence. 5. Micro relationships In an Assistants role, our networks are invaluable. They are also a reflection of your Executives’ credibility. If you can manage them with discretion and thoughtfulness you will go a long way! EST10’s top tips… - Keeping key people internally and externally informed and acknowledged in a timely manner.
- Manage all communication thoughtfully and professionally.
- Be approachable, dependable and consistent.
- Always remember discretion and confidentiality are key.
Strong relationships and networks should never be underestimated. Remember it goes both ways. As Assistants we are always there to support each other in a time of need! A stellar micro reputation won’t just support your Executive better, it will enhance the impact they can make and see you forming a true strategic partnership. |
