| Welcome to Lunch n Learn with Lindsay🍏 Issue 257. For those of you on socials, you may notice many posts talking about “finding your voice”. But what does this really mean for you as an EA, PA or Administrative Professional? Last week I wrote a LinkedIn article sharing some thoughts on this, the original of which you can read here. There’s also an Instagram post here and for ease I’ve put the content into this message for today’s “food for thought”. Do let me know your thoughts. What would you add as a strategy for finding and using your voice? Finding your Voice There’s a phrase that often circulates on social media and in professional development circles: “find your voice.” It’s inspiring, empowering – and also a little vague. If you’re an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant, you might ask: What does “finding your voice” really mean in my role? More importantly, why does it matter, and how do I do it? This article aims to demystify the concept of finding your voice, explain why it’s vital for you as an EA/PA professional, and offer 10 practical strategies you can apply today. 1. What Does “Finding Your Voice”Really Mean? Finding your voice means developing the confidence, clarity, and authenticity to express your ideas, opinions, and boundaries both professionally and personally. It’s about discovering how you communicate, what you stand for, and being empowered to speak up when it matters. For EAs and PAs, this means leveraging the unique position you hold in your role. You see, hear and experience what’s happening in your team and organisation and that is the perfect vantage point to put forward your ideas, suggestions and proposals. Finding your voice means stepping into your power within your role, knowing when to influence, advocate, question, and contribute. 2. Why It Matters: The Benefits of Finding Your Voice When EAs and PAs find and use their voice, the benefits ripple outwards: Increased Confidence: You trust your judgment more and doubt yourself less. Stronger Relationships: Clear, assertive communication fosters mutual respect. Greater Influence: You become a strategic partner, not just a task-taker. Better Boundaries: You’re more comfortable saying “no” or asking “why.” Professional Recognition: You’re seen as credible, capable, and essential. |
10 Practical Steps to Find Your Voice
Here are ten actionable strategies to help you develop and own your voice:
1. Know Your Strengths
Start with a self-audit. Conducting a Personal SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) will help you understand where your confidence and expertise already lies.
2. Understand Your Communication Style
Are you analytical, expressive, amiable, or assertive? Frameworks like DISC or MBTI (Meyers Briggs Type Indicators) can reveal how you naturally show up and how others perceive you.
3. Challenge Negative Self-Talk
Your inner critic can be your loudest silencer. Practice reframing. Instead of “I’m just an assistant,”try, “I’m a strategic partner who enables success.”
4. Use Reflective Journaling
Writing daily or weekly reflections helps you uncover your values, fears, and patterns. This builds self-awareness, a key component of emotional intelligence.
5. Practice Speaking Up in Low-Stake Situations
Start in safe environments – team meetings, 1:1s with your executive, or online forums. Every act of speaking up strengthens your ability to do so.
6. Set Professional Boundaries
Being clear about what you can and can’t do helps reinforce your voice. Become comfortable with saying “no” in a professional manner.
7. Find Allies and Mentors
Your voice is amplified when supported. Join professional communities where you can model confident communication.
8. Engage in Professional Development
Attend workshops, webinars, and courses that focus on influence, communication, and personal branding. Your Excellency offers many of these tailored for EAs and PAs.
9. Celebrate Small Wins
Every time you assert yourself, acknowledge it. Self-recognition builds momentum. Keep that “Ta Da” file and log your accomplishments.
10. Keep Learning and Adapting
Your voice isn’t fixed. As you grow, it evolves. Revisit your goals and values regularly to keep your voice aligned with who you are.
Finding your voice isn’t about being loud. It’s about being clear, confident, and authentic, especially in roles that require discretion, empathy, and influence like those of EAs and PAs.
You already have a voice. The challenge and the opportunity is to use it in a way that reflects your value, aligns with your purpose, and shapes your professional identity.
