The Invisible Work of Executive Assistants: Why Organisations Misjudge Support Roles

Most organisations measure output. Very few measure stability. In this episode, Rachael explores the invisible work EAs quietly hold that keeps decision-making, workflow, and pace from breaking under pressure. From reading the room and managing bottlenecks to holding context and reducing friction, this is the layer of work that rarely shows up in KPIs but is immediately felt when it disappears. The episode unpacks why “admin efficiency” often erodes judgement rather than strengthening it, how organisations defer cost when they restructure or offshore without mapping invisible work, and why leaders underestimate the conditions EAs create for effective execution. This is not a conversation about effort.  It is about risk, continuity, and how work actually holds together inside fast-moving organisations. If you are an EA who knows you carry more than what appears on paper, or a leader responsible for designing roles and support structures, this episode will help you see what is being quietly stabilised every day and what is at stake when it is overlooked. You'll also hear how to start making strategic thinking clear without the performative visibility. Links and resources mentioned in this episode Get your free Strategic Self-Assessment Checklist here  It only takes 5 minutes to go through — and the shifts it sparks can be career-changing. LinkedIn post on headlines and narrative here LinkedIn post on offshoring EA roles here Learn more about Rachael or exploring working together here Find free insights on instagram @rachaelbonetti Join Rachael’s fortnightly insights newsletter here