Embrace resilience, flexibility, and agility, and you’ll be well-equipped to support your executives and achieve your professional goals, explains Dannielle Haig
The ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to changing circumstances, and quickly navigate new challenges is essential. These qualities – resilience, flexibility, and agility – are critical for thriving in a role that requires constant multitasking, quick decision-making, and unwavering support for high-level executives. According to the World Economic Forum, these skills rank among the top five most important for 2027.
As an experienced business psychologist, consultant, and coach, I have dedicated my career to understanding and enhancing these crucial skills. My work with leaders from some of the world’s largest organisations has equipped me with valuable insights into the practical applications of these skills in the workplace. Additionally, my previous career as an Assistant taught me what it takes to be an exceptional support to an executive team.
Drawing on my background and expertise, this article aims to provide readers with actionable insights and strategies to cultivate resilience, flexibility, and agility. These qualities are vital for professional success and for maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life.
What Is Resilience?
Resilience is the ability to recover quickly from difficulties and maintain a stable mental state despite stress. In the high-pressure environment of executive support, resilience enables you to handle the unexpected with grace and efficiency.
Consider the story of Sarah, an Executive Assistant who faced a major crisis when her CEO’s keynote speech file was corrupted an hour before a significant industry conference. Rather than succumbing to panic, Sarah tapped into her resilience. She quickly coordinated with IT, found a backup file, and ensured the CEO was prepared in time. Her ability to stay calm under pressure was a testament to her resilience.
Scientifically, resilience has been linked to numerous benefits, including improved mental health, higher productivity, and enhanced job satisfaction. According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, employees with high resilience are better at coping with workplace stress and exhibit higher performance levels.
To build resilience
- Develop a strong support network: Surround yourself with colleagues, friends, and family who can provide emotional support.
- Practice mindfulness and stress management techniques: Regular meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help you maintain mental equilibrium.
- Set realistic goals: Break down large tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Embracing Flexibility
Flexibility in a professional context means the ability to adapt to new circumstances and modify your approach as needed. This quality is crucial in roles that require juggling multiple tasks and responding to the evolving needs of executives.
Take the example of John, a personal Assistant who had meticulously planned his executive’s travel itinerary. A sudden weather change caused flight cancellations, and John had to rebook flights, arrange alternative transportation, and adjust accommodation plans – all within a few hours. His flexibility allowed him to handle these changes without disrupting the executive’s schedule.
Research underscores the value of flexibility in the workplace. A study by the American Psychological Association found that flexible work arrangements contribute to higher job satisfaction and lower stress levels. Employees who feel empowered to adjust their work methods are more engaged and productive.
To enhance your flexibility
- Stay open-minded: Be willing to consider different perspectives and new approaches.
- Prioritise tasks: Determine what needs immediate attention and what can be adjusted.
- Learn continuously: Stay updated with industry trends and tools that can aid in efficient task management.
Cultivating Agility
Agility refers to the ability to think and understand quickly, allowing you to respond effectively to sudden changes. While flexibility involves adjusting plans, agility is about quickly finding solutions and seizing opportunities.
An anecdote that illustrates agility involves Lisa, an executive support professional who was tasked with organising an impromptu meeting with international clients. Despite the short notice, Lisa efficiently arranged the meeting, coordinated with different time zones, and ensured all necessary materials were prepared. Her quick thinking and proactive attitude exemplified professional agility.
Agility in the workplace has been associated with enhanced innovation and competitive advantage. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, organisations that adopt agile practices are more likely to outperform their peers in terms of revenue growth and market position.
To develop agility
- Embrace continuous learning: Regularly update your skills and knowledge to stay ahead of industry changes.
- Enhance your problem-solving skills: Engage in activities that challenge your thinking, such as puzzles or strategic games.
- Be proactive: Anticipate potential challenges and prepare contingency plans.
A Holistic Approach to Work and Life
Balancing resilience, flexibility, and agility requires a holistic approach that integrates these qualities into both your professional and personal life. This balance is essential for sustaining long-term performance and avoiding burnout.
I recall a time when my demanding consulting schedule began to encroach on my personal life, leading to stress and exhaustion. By reassessing my priorities and implementing a more holistic approach – incorporating regular exercise, setting boundaries, and making time for hobbies – I was able to restore balance and improve my overall well-being.
Scientific research supports the importance of work-life balance. The Harvard Business Review highlights that employees who maintain a healthy balance are more productive, motivated, and less likely to experience burnout.
To achieve this balance
- Set clear boundaries: Define specific work hours and stick to them.
- Prioritise self-care: Engage in activities that rejuvenate you, such as hobbies or spending time with loved ones.
- Integrate wellness practices: Incorporate physical activity, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep into your routine.
Applying Business Psychology, Consulting, and Coaching Insights
Drawing from my experience in business psychology, consulting, and coaching, I have found that understanding human behaviour and motivation can significantly enhance resilience, flexibility, and agility.
In one coaching session, I worked with an Executive Assistant struggling with stress management. By applying principles of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), we identified negative thought patterns and developed strategies to reframe them. This approach not only improved her resilience but also enhanced her overall job performance.
Consulting has taught me that customised strategies are crucial. During a project with a multinational corporation, we implemented flexible work arrangements tailored to different departments. This led to increased employee satisfaction and productivity.
From a coaching perspective, I recommend the following techniques:
- Cognitive reframing: Challenge negative thoughts and replace them with positive, realistic ones.
- Goal setting: Set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals to stay focused and motivated.
- Feedback loops: Regularly seek and provide feedback to continuously improve.
Finally, resilience, flexibility, and agility are not just buzzwords but essential qualities for executive support staff and Assistants. By understanding and cultivating these traits, you can navigate the complexities of your role with confidence and poise. Implementing a holistic approach that balances work and life, and leveraging insights from business psychology, consulting, and coaching, you can enhance your professional capabilities and overall well-being. Remember, the key to success lies in your ability to adapt, recover, and thrive in the ever-evolving business landscape.
As a final thought, consider the words of Charles Darwin: “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.”
Embrace resilience, flexibility, and agility, and you’ll be well-equipped to support your executives and achieve your professional goals.
