According to Global Workplace Analytics, 90% of remote workers said they were as productive, if not more, working from home.
Key findings of note:
55% say they work more hours working remotely than at the physical office
1 in 4 would quit their job if they could no longer work remotely after the pandemic, with an additional 19% still undecided
Of those that have returned to the office, 78% say that they feel more included, and 57% say that they prefer working from home full-time
1 in 4 changed jobs or are actively seeking a new opportunity for many reasons
While we all have adjusted to the new normal, as assistants, we've traditionally worked in-person along side an executive. Perceptions have been forced to change and now, more and more executives realize having a remote assistant is virtually no different than having someone in the office. It is no surprise that some executives have embraced it better than others. If you feel your boss would rather you sit right by his or her side, communication may be the culprit. I've outlined the first steps in understanding how to develop better intuitive communication skills needed for a successful partnership.
Communication
Verbal and non-verbal communication is the paramount in establishing the EA/Executive relationship. It is known that over 80% of communication is non-verbal and using the 55/38/7 rule is helpful to know. Psychology Today explains that 55% is visual, 38% is vocal tone and 7% verbal. There's solid science behind it, if you are so inclined. But to become intuitive in this practice, you should consider the 3C's of Communication:
Clusters: Look for common themes in the person's behavior. A single source point isn't enough to make a conclusion of the person's state of mind or emotion.
Congruence: . Do the spoken words match the tone and body language?
Context: The environment where interaction is taking place, the history between the people, and the person's role.
If you understand these basics, you are well on your way to reading people and feeling the nuances of communication that will get you synced with your executive.
Mastering Yourself
Always come from a place of knowing yourself, first.
Helpful tools include:
