EP 52: Can We Talk About Ad-Hoc Tasks?

Ad-hoc tasks are an inevitable part of the Assistant role, but when they start taking over your day, they can prevent you from focusing on strategic, high-impact work. In this episode, we break down how to manage, track, and take control of ad-hoc tasks so they don’t define your role.We’ll cover: What ad-hoc tasks are and why they impact Assistants more than other roles How to quantify them so they don’t disappear into ‘invisible work’Strategies to push back on unnecessary requests while maintaining great relationshipsHow to approach your Executive when ad-hoc work is dominating your workloadWhat to do if your role has become entirely reactiveListen in for practical tips and a step-by-step approach to making sure these tasks work for you, not against you.Resources & Links Mentioned:Ad-Hoc Task Tracker & Prioritization Template – Start tracking your ad-hoc tasks and take control of your workload. Download the templateAssistant Fundamentals Masterclass – Strengthen your foundational skills. Join the masterclassCommunity Webinar: Creating a User Manual for Your Executive – Learn how to set expectations with your executive. Sign up hereMastering Automation Masterclass – Learn how to streamline and automate repetitive tasks. Register nowShow Notes00:00 – Welcome & March Event Round-UpOverview of upcoming EA Campus events and why you should join.04:15 – What Are Ad-Hoc Tasks & Why They MatterDefinition of ad-hoc tasks and why they impact Assistants more than other roles.09:30 – The Challenge: Requests from Colleagues vs. ExecutivesWhy colleagues don’t always recognize the impact of their requests.How to manage last-minute requests from your Executive.15:45 – How to Quantify & Track Ad-Hoc TasksThe importance of tracking and logging these tasks.How to use data to make a case for workload balance.22:10 – How to Take Control & Set BoundariesPractical strategies to manage ad-hoc tasks effectively.How to push back professionally while maintaining strong relationships.30:00 – What to Do if Ad-Hoc Tasks Are Your Whole JobSigns your role needs redefining.How to have a productive conversation with your Executive.The impact of updating your job description and performance review criteria.38:20 – Final Thoughts & Call to ActionTry the one-week ad-hoc tracking challenge and share your insights in The EA Campus Community. The EA Campus