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Executive Assistant Resume Sample [+Skills & Objective]

Executive Assistant Resume Sample [+Skills & Objective]

As seen in:

Meet the CEO of the most successful business of the decade. Her name's Sharon, and she's amazing to work for. She's also dialing your number. Why?


Of the 400+ executive assistant resumes she read, she liked yours best. Your resume convinced her you can see around corners. Read minds. To her, you're Batman's Alfred, but with better shoes. You need to write that resume. A job-winning executive assistant resume that will make CEOs believe in you.

 

This guide will show you:

 

  • An executive assistant resume example better than 9 out of 10 other resumes.
  • How to write an executive assistant resume that will land you more interviews.
  • Tips and examples of how to put skills and achievements on an executive assistant resume.
  • How to describe your experience on a resume for an executive assistant to get any job you want.

 

Here's a sample resume for executive assistant made using our resume builder.  

  

Want to save time and have your resume ready in 5 minutes? Try our resume builder. It’s fast and easy to use. Plus, you’ll get ready-made content to add with one click. See 20+ resume templates and create your resume here.

 

Sample resume made with our builder—See more resume samples here.

Targeting other administrative support positions too? See one of our dedicated guides:

 

 

For more examples check our amazing collection here:

 

1

What's the Best Format for an Executive Assistant Resume?

 

Let's look in on Sharon again.

 

She's tired.

 

Her assistant left two weeks ago.

 

Worse, none of the the 300+ executive assistant resumes on her tablet have jumped out at her.

 

Some are formatted poorly. They've got typos. And what is an executive assistant without attention to detail?

 

Then she comes to yours. It's formatted in the respected reverse-chronological layout.

 

That puts your most recent job first.

 

You've used clear, legible fonts, white space, and eye-friendly headings.

 

You've also saved it as a PDF, which means it didn't jumble up on her computer.

 

Are you hired? No.

 

But you're off to a great start. You've got Sharon's attention.

 

Next, we'll look at how to keep it.

 

Want to make sure your resume will hook every recruiter and get you that interview? Get our free checklist and learn what makes a job-winning resume: 46 Things You Need To Do Before You Send Your Resume.

 

Pro Tip: Check the job description in case it bans PDFs. Some Applicant Tracking Systems choke on executive assistant resumes in PDF format.

 

Not sure the reverse-chronological format is right for you? See this guide: "3 Resume Formats: How to Choose the Best One [Examples]"

 

2

How to Write a Resume Summary or Resume Objective

 

Back to our CEO.

 

She spends just seven seconds looking at each resume, as our HR statistics report shows.

 

You've only got that long to hook her.

 

Do it with a professional resume summary or a resume objective.

 

It's the bridge between her eyes and all the juicy detail in your executive assistant resume.

 

Use a resume summary if you've got drawers full of experience.

 

Write a resume objective if you're just getting started.

 

A resume summary summarizes your achievements and skills.

 

A resume objective shows why you want the job and why you're perfect for it.

 

See the senior executive assistant resume examples below for inspiration.

 

Two Executive Assistant Resume Summary Statements

 

right

Energetic executive assistant with 5+ years experience, seeking position with Bekaras Industries. Saved Kallas, Inc. an average 15 hours per week for four executives. Reduced travel cost waste by 28%. Saved $2 million/yr by eliminating customer misunderstandings by creating a new call system.

wrong

Executive assistant with 5 years experience. Highly skilled in communication, time management, and organization. Excellent problem solving skills.

 

See the difference? That first executive assistant resume sample could get you in as Iron Man's next JARVIS. The second? Maybe Brant from The Big Lebowski.

 

But what if you don't have experience?

 

That's when you need an objective statement for your executive administrative assistant resume.

 

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check. Start building a professional resume template here for free.

When you’re done, Zety’s resume builder will score your resume and tell you exactly how to make it better.

 

Two Entry Level Executive Assistant Resume Objective Examples

 

No experience? Think your c-level executive assistant resume will look like an empty Valentino briefcase?

 

Start it with a resume objective statement. They work for entry level executive assistants, or anyone who's seeking a new niche.

 

right

Enthusiastic executive assistant. Excellent EQ level. Skilled time manager. Served as freelance assistant to three executives in mid-level firms. Received glowing references from each for resourcefulness.

wrong
Entry-level executive assistant. No experience as yet but I think fast.

 

Wow.

 

That first executive assistant resume example makes you look like the Genie from Aladdin. The second? More like Barney Fife.

 

You need to show the right executive assistant resume duties, even with no job history.

 

Pro Tip: Learn as much as you can about the CEO and company before you write your resume. You can't prove you're a fit if you don't know what you're fitting.

 

To really dial this in, use the free executive assistant resume template at the top of this article. Plus, check out our guides: How To Write A Resume Summary: 21 Best Examples You Will See AND +20 Resume Objective Examples - Use Them on Your Resume (Tips)

 

3

How to Describe Your Executive Assistant Experience

 

Let's say you're applying for Chewbacca's job, from Star Wars.

 

In that case, your executive assistant resume will need to prove experience piloting starships, fixing wonky hyperdrives, and scaring small, cute droids.

 

But if you're gunning for Tinker Bell's career, you'll have to show past accomplishments like sprinkling pixie dust and helping your boss think happy thoughts.

 

See the magic?

 

It all comes down to connecting with the chief. Suss out what she (or he) needs most, then show you've got it.

 

And after all, isn't that what being an executive assistant is all about?

 

Here's how:

 

List your most recent job first.

 

Add 4-6 bullet points that tie your perfect executive assistant resume to the job offer.

 

Examples for Executive Assistant Resume Experience

 

right

Executive Assistant

Kallas, Inc.

2012 - 2017

 

  • Fulfilled all executive assistant duties for four top executives in an international firm. Managed complex calendars, facilitated communication and logistics.
  • Tasked with saving time for all top-level executives. Saved each an average of 15 hours per week, which translates to $30,000 a week at current salaries.
  • Improved communication between executives/customers. Set up a call recording system that saved $2 million a year from misunderstandings.
  • Supported executives with project support, data tracking, and administrative tasks. Frequently commended for quick-thinking and resourcefulness.
wrong

Executive Assistant

Kallas, Inc.

2012 - 2017

 

  • Managed complex calendars, facilitated communication.
  • Handled logistics for the executives.
  • Provided project support and data tracking.
  • Responsible for completing administrative tasks.

  

That first example could get you a job as Hermione Granger.

 

That's because it shows specific achievements that tie into the job offer.

 

But how do you write a good executive assistant resume with no experience?

 

How to Write an Executive Assistant Resume with no Experience

 

Ready to learn how to write an executive assistant resume with no experience?

 

Here it is:

 

Get some.

 

Sound silly?

 

First, what is administrative experience? You probably already have some.

 

Think:

 

Have you ever helped an executive-level employee with a project?

 

That's executive assistant experience. You need to show it in your resume.

 

Next, find an executive, then help him with a project.

 

This takes a little networking. I'll show you how in a minute.

 

Two Creative Executive Assistant Resume Samples (No Experience)

 

right

Freelance Executive Assistant

July 2012 - September 2012

 

  • Freelance executive assistant for three executives of mid-level firms. Received glowing references from each for resourcefulness and forward-thinking.
  • Assisted with ad-hoc projects. Created PowerPoint presentations. One presentation was shown to 500+ employees as a policy deployment tool.
  • Aided executives with preparing for meetings.
  • Proofread executive materials. Decreased errors by 75%.

 

Proprietor, ACE Wedding Video

2012 - 2016

 

  • Booked all travel and accommodations for three videographers for five years.
  • Coordinated conference calls between brides, grooms, parents, and videographers.
  • Handled all record-keeping and data-tracking from over 100 3-month projects.
  • Communicated effectively with 100+ high-end clients. Received 20+ effusive letters of thanks from customers.
wrong

Executive Assistant Experience: None so far, but I know I'll be great at it.

 

Other Experience: Video production.

 

Even with no experience, that first executive assistant resume sample paints you as the next Sam Gamgee.

 

How to Get Experience for an Executive Assistant Resume

 

To build experience fast, network.

 

Think: do you know an executive? Does a friend or relative?

 

Explain what you're trying to do. Ask that person if you can help with a project or two, for free.

 

Maybe it's putting together a PowerPoint presentation. Maybe it's booking some travel.

 

It might take a couple hours, but it'll pump up a sagging executive administrative assistant resume.

 

Want to see this all in action? Check out the free sample resume for executive assistant to CEO at the top of this guide.

 

Pro Tip: The best executive assistants have next-level EQ. Find past accomplishments that show your off-the-charts soft skills.

 

Juice up your professional executive assistant resume with action words. They engage your CEO and keep him reading. Use these: "+80 Examples of Resume Action Words for Every Profession"

 

4

Is Your Education Section Dropping the Ball? It Might Be

 

When Mini Me from Austin Powers got his job with Dr. Evil, what mattered more? Experience or education?

 

Experience, of course.

 

But you've got an education, so use it.

 

It's one more chance to prove your powers.

 

On your c level executive assistant resume, add:

 

  • School Name and Location.
  • Years in School.
  • Degree.

 

Then add details that show you're basically Groot with better EQ.

 

Two Examples of Executive Assistant Resume Education

 

right

BA, Business Admin, Wellesley College

2009 - 2012

 

  • Pursued a passion for accounting and financial management.
  • Excelled in business law and ethics. 
  • My article, "Know What they Want" was reprinted by "The Economist."
  • Board member, Punch's Alley student-managed nightclub.
wrong

BA, Williams College

2011 - 2014

 

  • Received a BA.
  • GPA 3.6.
  • Took classes in accounting and math.

  

That first example makes you look like a young Doc Holliday in training.

 

But it was just as easy to make.

 

Need a template? Use the sample executive assistant resume at the top of this guide.

 

Pro Tip: Should you add your GPA to your education section? Only if it's eye-poppingly high. Otherwise, focus on your impressive accomplishments.

 

For more tips to make your professional executive assistant resume glow like stock options, see this guide: "How to Put Your Education on a Resume [Tips & Examples]"

 

5

How to Put Skills on a Resume for an Executive Assistant

 

CEO Donald J. Gogel says, "A spectacular executive assistant can defy the laws of the physical world. She can see around corners."

 

That's what your executive assistant resume skills section needs to prove.

 

You need to show the right skills. Hint: they're listed in the job description.

 

Then, add some skills the CEO doesn't even know she wants.

 

Finally, tie them to your job experience and education, like this:

 

What if you're writing an executive assistant resume for a job that values good EQ and time management.

 

Example

 

  • Fulfilled daily executive assistant duties, including calendar management, communication, and projecting a compassionate face for the executive.
  • In internal polling, employee perception of executives improved 45% during my tenure, thanks to EQ skills and better email oversight and editing.
  • Saved an average of 12 hours/week per executive through excellent time management and efficient scheduling.

 

Do the above, and that CEO will picture you living in a lamp, kicking back in balloon pants.

 

Need some free executive assistant resume skills to get you started?

 

Use these, with our compliments. Then find others in job offers online.

 

Executive Assistant Resume Skills

 

Executive Assistant Resume Skills
Soft SkillsHard Skills
EQEmail Systems
Time ManagementFile-Sharing Systems
LogisticsDatabase Management
Communication SkillsCalendar Management
CompassionCoordinating Conference Calls
Problem SolvingTravel Arrangements
Interpersonal SkillsResearch
ListeningAccounting
Self DirectionReport Generation
Administrative SkillsEvent Planning

 

Check out the executive resume template up top to see these skills in action.

 

Pro Tip: Tech skills are increasingly important for executive assistants. Any skill that saves time for the big man and keeps him on task will help get you in the door.

 

Want more skills help to write the best executive assistant resume? See this guide: "+30 Best Examples of What Skills to Put on a Resume (Proven Tips)"

 

6

How to Add Other Sections for an Effective Resume

 

Poof. Gru from Despicable Me just turned you into an executive assistant resume.

 

Now you're in a pile of 300+ others, all alike.

 

How do you get out?

 

You impress the CEO that you're unique and valuable.

 

Done right, "other" sections do this masterfully.

 

Steer clear of generics. You know, "I like Asian food and taking naps."

 

Instead, add interests, hobbies, volunteer work, courses. In other words, anything that links your top executive assistant resume to the job description.

 

See the executive resume samples below.

 

Executive Administrative Assistant Resume Sample "Other" Sections

  

Courses

 

  • Corporate Governance Business Law, San Jose University
  • IT Systems Development, San Jose University
  • Oral Presentation, San Jose University

 

Languages

 

  • Fluent in Spanish
  • Proficient in German

 

Membership

 

  • Member, Executive Assistant Organization.

 

Publications

 

  • "Why Impossible Means Lazy," Steve Blank Blog
  • "How CEOs Can Rent EQ," WiseBread

 

Wow. You're basically Turtle from Entourage, aren't you?

 

Your courses show you're constantly making yourself better.

 

Your languages show versatility.

 

The membership and publications show this isn't just a hobby.

 

They all look great on an executive assistant resume.

 

Pro Tip: References are extremely important for executive assistants. Still, most experts say you shouldn't put them on your resume. Reference sharing can come later.

 

Want help writing perfect executive assistant resume "other" sections? See our guide: "+20 Best Examples of Hobbies & Interests To Put on a Resume (5 Tips)"

 

7

Here's the Most Common Myth About Cover Letters

 

Lots of experts say nobody reads administrative support cover letters.

 

The truth?

 

For the best executive assistant resumes, cover letters are essential.

 

The best executive assistant cover letters are grounded in research.

 

Before you write, know the CEO. Know her name. Understand her needs.

 

Mention something you like about her company.

 

Then share 1-2 accomplishments that prove you fit the job like a custom-tailored Kiton suit.

 

Close it with a call to action. "I'd welcome the opportunity to talk more with you about your needs," works great.

 

Pro Tip: A few days after you send in your professional executive assistant resume and cover letter, follow up. A thank-you email will remind the CEO to take another peek.

 

Plus, a great cover letter that matches your resume will give you an advantage over other candidates. You can write it in our cover letter builder here. Here's what it may look like:

 

See more cover letter templates and start writing.

Need more help writing the best cover letter for an administrative position? Check out this guide: "How To Write a Cover Letter for a Resume" and our Executive Assistant Cover Letter Guide

 

8

How to Add Contact Info to Your Resume

 

Nightmare scenario:

 

The CEO wants to hire you. You listed all the right executive assistant resume qualifications.

 

But you didn't share your phone number.

 

Of course you won't do that.

 

But did you know you'll probably make other mistakes almost as bad?

 

Add your:

 

  • Full Name
  • Updated Phone Number
  • Professional Email Address

 

Like this:

 

Linsey Abreu, [email protected] - 415-350-1837

 

Then, add your LinkedIn profile. that lets the curious CEO dig deeper.

 

Make sure that digging turns up gold. See our guide here to making the best LinkedIn profile you can.

 

Next, add other social media handles, like Twitter or Skype.

 

See the example of a professional resume up top for guidance.

 

Pro Tip: Don't let that pic from Cancun six years ago sink your chances. Tidy up your past with this guide to sprucing up your online presence.

 

Need more guidance to make a top executive assistant resume? See our guide: "How to Make a Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide (+30 Examples)"

 

9

Executive Assistant Resume Job Description Sample

 

You want the CEO to say, "I have to hire this person. There's no other choice."

 

That comes down to how well you link your executive assistant resume to the position.

 

Executive assistants are troubleshooters, concierges, translators, impromptu psychologists, and diplomats.

 

But executive admin assistant jobs will actually shrink by 1% over the next few years.

 

As you read this executive assistant job description, note the skills and duties. How would you prove you are the only one for the job?

 

Executive Assistant Job Description

 

Job Overview

 

The ideal candidate will provide high-level assistance for top executives. She should have excellent time management skills and be comfortable answering emails on behalf of executives.

 

Executive Assistant Responsibilities

 

  • Executive calendar management
  • Help executives prepare for meetings
  • Draft PowerPoint presentations and documents for executives
  • Respond to emails on behalf of executives

 

Pro Tip: Save time by making a few good executive assistant resume templates. Then custom-fit to each job description. You'll be glad you did the groundwork later.

 

Want more advice to mold your experienced executive assistant resume to the position like a pair of Manolo Blahniks? See this guide: "6 Tips on How to Tailor Your Resume to a Job Description (Examples)"

 

Key Takeaway

 

Even when you've got an executive assistant resume template to work from, making your own version can be hard. To write an executive assistant resume that gets jobs, follow these steps:

 

  • Start by learning everything you can about the CEO and company. You'll need superior knowledge to write a superior executive assistant resume.
  • Prove you fit the job by showing how you've used the skills in your experience section.
  • Add other sections to your executive assistant resume. Hobbies, interests, and coursework can make you stand out like Dr. Watson in a sea of interns.
  • Include an executive assistant cover letter in your job application.

 

Got questions about how to write an executive assistant resume? Give us a shout in the comments section!

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Tom Gerencer, CPRW
Tom Gerencer is a career expert and Certified Professional Resume Writer who has published over 200 in-depth articles on Zety. Since 2016, he has been sharing advice on all things recruitment from writing winning resumes and cover letters to getting a promotion.
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