Running a family business? Then you already know—it’s not all handshakes and heirlooms. As your business grows, so do the responsibilities: juggling meetings, client calls, schedules, follow-ups, and a mountain of small but critical tasks. That’s where executive assistant recruiting for family offices comes into play—and why having the right EA is essential.
Think of your EA not as support staff, but as the operational glue that holds your day—and your business—together.
So let’s take a look at some smart, practical tips for finding the right executive assistant for your family office.
1. Start With a Clear, Compelling Job Description
A vague job post won’t attract the high-caliber help your business deserves. Instead, spell out what you really need.
Be sure to include:
- Key responsibilities and daily tasks
- Required (and preferred) skills and qualifications
- Expected schedule and working conditions
- Any client-facing duties or project management expectation
According to Glassdoor, a strong job description can increase the quality of applicants by up to 30%. The more detailed and transparent you are, the better your chances of finding someone who’s genuinely a great fit.
2. Look for Flexibility and Adaptability
Let’s be honest—family businesses are rarely predictable. Plans change, new opportunities pop up, and priorities shift fast. Your EA needs to be the kind of person who can pivot without panic.
Adaptability isn’t just nice to have—it’s a must-have. You want someone who stays calm under pressure, handles last-minute changes with grace, and keeps things moving without missing a beat.
3. Hire Someone with Eagle Eyes
You can’t be everywhere at once, and you definitely can’t review every email or contract detail on your own. That’s where an observant executive assistant becomes invaluable.
A great EA pays attention to the little things—like spotting errors in a proposal, following up on overlooked emails, or noticing scheduling conflicts before they happen. Their detail-oriented mindset helps prevent slipups and keeps the business running smoothly.
4. Prioritize Tech Savvy
Today’s EAs are more than just calendar keepers—they’re digital ninjas. From managing cloud files to scheduling Zoom calls and automating workflows with tools like Slack, Trello, or AI-based calendars, a tech-savvy EA is a major productivity booster.
In fact, 74% of businesses say digital tools improve team productivity. So find someone who not only knows the tools but knows how to use them to streamline your business.
5. Don’t Underestimate Attitude
Yes, skills and experience matter—but so does personality. A positive, can-do attitude can be just as impactful as a resume full of certifications.
Especially in a close-knit family office, you want someone approachable, upbeat, and open to feedback. Someone who contributes to a supportive, harmonious work environment—while still being ready to roll up their sleeves when things get hectic.
6. Strong Interpersonal Skills Go a Long Way
Your EA is often the first point of contact for clients, vendors, and even other staff. Their communication style sets the tone for your business.
An EA with excellent interpersonal skills builds trust, keeps relationships running smoothly, and makes your business look buttoned-up and professional. In other words, they’re part assistant, part brand ambassador.
Final Thoughts
Managing a growing family business without the right support? That’s a fast track to burnout.
Bringing on a skilled executive assistant isn’t just about offloading tasks—it’s about finding a trusted partner who helps your business run better, smarter, and smoother. Whether it’s improving client relations, managing day-to-day operations, or helping you reclaim time for family, the right EA can truly take your family office to the next level.
