Does your boss treat you like a personal assistant?
Regardless of your profession, underlings of people in power have always complained about having to do things for the boss "when it's not their job" to do it; but what would you do if your boss treats you like a personal assistant when you aren't one?
In a bygone era, subordinates would just have to "grin and bear it," but times have changed. Sexist behavior shouldn't be permitted. If you have a male boss and you're a female subordinate being asked to do personal tasks for your boss, then you should say something.
In a bygone era, subordinates would just have to "grin and bear it," but times have changed. Sexist behavior shouldn't be permitted. If you have a male boss and you're a female subordinate being asked to do personal tasks for your boss, then you should say something.
Duties for a personal assistant vs an executive assistant
Assistants should have clear duties
Personal assistants and executive assistants have very different duties and responsibilities. An EA, essentially, has administrative duties and generally works in a corporate office; and the tasks they perform should be directly related to the company's business.
A personal assistant, on the other hand, typically works outside of the corporate office, and often works in a home office. They handle all of the personal tasks for the VIP they work for: running errands, walking pets, taking the car to get washed, grocery shopping, party planning, etc.
A personal assistant, on the other hand, typically works outside of the corporate office, and often works in a home office. They handle all of the personal tasks for the VIP they work for: running errands, walking pets, taking the car to get washed, grocery shopping, party planning, etc.
How should I handle being assigned personal assistant duties?
If you've been asked to do personal assistant duties and it's not in your job description, then here are some suggestions:
These suggestions won't work in every situation, but you'll have to address the matter in a way you feel is appropriate for your circumstance.
- If you don't mind doing the duties but you're not being paid for the extra tasks, have a sit-down talk with your boss about it.
- If you do mind doing the personal assistant tasks, even if your boss is willing to pay you more money, then speak up and have it handled.
- Last but certainly not least, if you feel like either of the above aren't practical or it's put you on an awkward situation, you could always resign and find another place of employment.
These suggestions won't work in every situation, but you'll have to address the matter in a way you feel is appropriate for your circumstance.
