What skills can executive support professionals learn from their mentors?

1 Communication skills

One of the most important skills that executive support professionals need to master is communication. They have to communicate effectively with different levels of management, clients, vendors, and colleagues, using various modes and channels. They also have to adapt their tone, style, and language to suit the context and the audience. A mentor can help them improve their communication skills by providing feedback, guidance, and examples. A mentor can also help them avoid common pitfalls, such as miscommunication, misunderstanding, and conflict, by sharing their own experiences and tips.

2 Technical skills

Another skill that executive support professionals need to keep up with is technology. They have to use various software and tools to perform their tasks, such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, email, calendar, and project management applications. They also have to learn new technologies and systems as they emerge or change. A mentor can help them enhance their technical skills by teaching them how to use the tools more efficiently and effectively. A mentor can also help them discover new tools and resources that can make their work easier and faster.

3 Organizational skills

A third skill that executive support professionals need to hone is organization. They have to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and priorities, while maintaining a high level of accuracy and quality. They also have to keep track of important information, documents, and records, and ensure that they are accessible and secure. A mentor can help them develop their organizational skills by showing them how to plan, prioritize, delegate, and follow up on their tasks. A mentor can also help them create and implement systems and processes that can streamline their workflow and reduce errors and stress.

4 Interpersonal skills

A fourth skill that executive support professionals need to cultivate is interpersonal. They have to work with diverse people and personalities, and build rapport and trust with them. They also have to handle difficult situations and people, and resolve issues and problems diplomatically. A mentor can help them boost their interpersonal skills by demonstrating how to communicate respectfully, listen actively, empathize genuinely, and negotiate fairly. A mentor can also help them cope with challenges and frustrations, and provide emotional support and encouragement.

5 Leadership skills

A fifth skill that executive support professionals need to acquire is leadership. They have to take initiative, make decisions, and solve problems independently. They also have to support and influence their executives, teams, and stakeholders, and contribute to the strategic goals and vision of the organization. A mentor can help them grow their leadership skills by inspiring them to take on more responsibilities and challenges, and empowering them to share their ideas and opinions. A mentor can also help them develop their confidence, professionalism, and personal brand.

6 How to find and work with a mentor

Finding and working with a mentor can be a rewarding and enriching experience for any executive support professional. However, it requires preparation and commitment. To get the most out of the mentoring relationship, you should first identify your goals and expectations. What do you want to learn? What kind of mentor are you looking for? How often and how long do you want to meet? Research potential mentors who have the skills, experience, and personality that match your goals and expectations. Reach out to your preferred mentor with a polite and professional message. Ask if they are available to be your mentor, and propose a meeting to discuss the details. Once you find a mentor, establish an agreement that defines objectives, expectations, roles, responsibilities, boundaries, and feedback mechanisms. Decide on the frequency, duration, mode, and agenda of the meetings. During the mentoring relationship, be respectful, honest, and open with your mentor. Prepare for each meeting, follow through on action items, seek feedback, and share progress or challenges. Express appreciation for the value that your mentor provides.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?