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BlogLily Shippen2026-10-26T16:37:36+00:00

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EA and PA insight: articles on careers, AI and the Chief of Staff move

A collection of our blogs, thoughts and published articles.

Our thoughts on a wide range of subjects, with contributions from industry experts.

EA and PA

9 November 2026
Your first 90 days as an Executive Assistant: what to do in weeks one, four and twelve

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Author: Emily Partridge

EA and PA
November 5, 2026

PA training in the UK: how to choose a course that is worth your time
Good PA training should make a real difference to how you work on the Monday after. Emily Partridge on the three kinds of PA training you'll find in the UK, what a course should really cover, online versus in person, and five questions to ask before you book.

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Author: Emily Partridge
EA and PA
November 4, 2026

How to write an executive assistant CV that gets you interviews
A recruiter's guide to the executive assistant CV: what employers look for, how to turn duties into evidence, the details that quietly cost interviews, and when a CV needs to change for a Chief of Staff role. From Lily Shippen.

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Author: Lily Shippen
EA and PA
November 2, 2026

What is a strategic EA, and how do you become one?
“Strategic EA” is on job adverts everywhere. Here is what the title means in practice, how the shift happens, and the honest answer on whether a course gets you there.

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Author: Lily Shippen

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The EA and PA profession is changing faster than most professional development has kept up with. Answer six honest questions and find out exactly where you are, and where you need to focus.

How would you describe your use of AI tools in your current role?(Required)

I haven't started using AI tools yet — I'm not sure where to begin.

I've experimented a little but haven't built any consistent habits or workflows.

I use AI tools regularly for specific tasks and it saves me meaningful time.

AI is embedded into how I work — I've built custom workflows and actively explore new applications.

When the way your principal works changes significantly — a new structure, strategy shift, or team change — how do you typically respond?(Required)

I wait for clear instructions before adjusting my approach.

I adapt as needed but tend to react to changes rather than anticipate them.

I usually pick up on the shift early and adjust proactively before being asked.

I actively help shape the response — I'm often the one flagging what needs to change.

How would you honestly describe your relationship with your principal or the leadership team you support?(Required)

Mostly task-based — I complete what's asked and flag when things go wrong.

Good working relationship but there are areas where I feel I could contribute more.

I'm seen as a trusted partner and my input is actively sought on key decisions.

I operate as a genuine strategic extension of their leadership — they couldn't function as effectively without me.

How invested are you in your own professional development right now?(Required)

I haven't dedicated much time or resource to it recently.

I read articles and follow industry conversations but haven't done structured development.

I've attended training or sought coaching and actively apply what I learn.

Professional development is a consistent priority — I invest in it regularly and measure the impact.

When you think about where the EA and PA profession is heading in the next three to five years, how would you describe your relationship with that change?(Required)

I find it uncertain and a little unsettling — I'm not sure what it means for my role.

I'm aware change is coming and I'm trying to keep up, but I don't have a clear plan.

I feel confident I understand the direction and I'm building toward it intentionally.

I'm ahead of the curve — I actively influence how my organisation thinks about the role's future.

How clearly can you articulate the strategic value you bring — to yourself and to others?(Required)

I struggle to put it into words beyond task and diary management.

I know I contribute more than the basics but I find it hard to express concisely.

I can articulate my value clearly and have done so when needed.

I advocate for myself and the profession consistently — and it shows in how I'm treated.

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