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The Leader Assistant: Four Pillars of a Confident, Game-Changing Assistant
Assistant, you are a leader. As an assistant, you constantly face obstacles that hold you back from accomplishing your career goals. Whether it’s a job change, shifting deadlines, a micromanaging executive, a toxic co-worker, a high-pressure project, or an intense negotiation with a vendor, the administrative profession is not for the faint of heart. If you’re looking to maintain the status quo and be “just an assistant,” this book is not for you. But, if you want the confidence and ability to conquer the challenges that most try to avoid, then you’re in the right place. The Leader Assistant outlines four pillars—embody the characteristics, employ the tactics, engage in relationships, and exercise self-care—that will help you rediscover your passion for the profession and become a confident, future-proof, game-changing Leader Assistant. If you neglect even one pillar, you’ll head for burnout, stagnation, and anonymity. You are meant for so much more. Are you ready to be the Leader Assistant the world needs?
- GenresBusinessNonfiction
254 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 23, 2020
About the author
Jeremy Burrows
2books11followersJeremy Burrows is a longtime executive assistant, international speaker, founder of The Leader Assistant Community, author of the #1 Amazon Bestselling book, The Leader Assistant: Four Pillars of a Confident, Game-Changing Assistant, and host of the #1 podcast for assistants – The Leader Assistant Podcast.
He has worked with CEOs, professional athletes, Fortune 100 board members, and billionaires spanning across the nonprofit and for-profit sectors.
Jeremy has also had the opportunity to speak at administrative professional and executive assistant conferences all over the world, including Hong Kong, Thailand, and Germany.
He’s currently EA to the Founder and CEO of Capacity, a fast-growing startup with an AI-powered, support automation platform.
Jeremy’s passion is to help you lead well, resist burnout, and automate before you’re automated.
Jeremy lives in Kansas City, MO with his wife and 2 boys. To connect with Jeremy or learn more about his training resources for executives and assistants, visit LeaderAssistant.com.
He has worked with CEOs, professional athletes, Fortune 100 board members, and billionaires spanning across the nonprofit and for-profit sectors.
Jeremy has also had the opportunity to speak at administrative professional and executive assistant conferences all over the world, including Hong Kong, Thailand, and Germany.
He’s currently EA to the Founder and CEO of Capacity, a fast-growing startup with an AI-powered, support automation platform.
Jeremy’s passion is to help you lead well, resist burnout, and automate before you’re automated.
Jeremy lives in Kansas City, MO with his wife and 2 boys. To connect with Jeremy or learn more about his training resources for executives and assistants, visit LeaderAssistant.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 25, 2023
Jeremy provides an intelligent and holistic guide for administrative professionals looking to "level up" and create more time in their lives and those they support. Perfectly paced and not too time-consuming, this is a logical and well-organized strategic reference guide with external links supporting his solutions and suggestions. In other words, this is a hands-on manual for making improvements right now! I highly recommend it if you feel you cannot 'get ahead' of your long list of responsibilities or feel stagnant and hopeless in your current role, edging toward 'burn-out.' Both the Audio and Kindle versions are valuable resources in my library.
February 9, 2021
I have been an assistant for many years and I learned so many great things in this book. I will keep it handy as a resource going forward!
March 8, 2022
Glad I finally got around to reading this guide--earlier I had only read the two chapters I thought I needed and didn't have the time or motivation to read the whole book.
Overall the book has some good advice for executive assistants from a seasoned executive assistant--tips for calendaring, cutting down on unneeded meetings, time management, and more. This book is about cultivating your leadership capabilities and confidence, as well as a practical guide to improvement. The book goes over the qualities that make a good assistant, which seem kind of like "Well, duh, of course!" at times, but to be fair, sometimes we forget these qualities are needed, or an assistant might be new and not know what are all the qualities they need. A section of the book covers networking and the final section of the book offers some advice for identifying and addressing burnout, which is crucial in such a high-stress job.
The book had wonderful grammar and was easy to read overall--you could easily read this book in a few hours over a few days if you read a pillar or half a pillar a day. The chapters are typically short and sweet.
The thing I found frustrating about this book was that sometimes it left me wanting more, like at times it felt like it was only scratching the surface. In particular, I was frustrated with the resume chapter since it suggested a tactic that I think it risky without addressing the ramifications of that risky tactic, AND no examples of resumes were provided--unfortunately the way the chapter was written, and the withholding of an example you could see or copy, made it seem like a pitch to get you to sign up for his and his friend's course on resumes, which is referenced/suggested in that chapter. The website for resources associated with the book, as well as the book itself, had multiple pitches/references to the services the author offers, and as his email subscriber, some of these services aren't cheap either. He has a free podcast, but other than that, you're looking at paying for his live events, coaching, classes, etc. Thankfully, though, the book does have value and isn't just a superficial attempt to boost sales of all his other products/services, but I think it pays to be aware that this is a small annoying aspect of this book, especially the resume chapter.
Overall, this is a good introduction to being an assistant and instead of being "just" an assistant, how to be a LEADER Assistant. Even if the book leaves some depth to be desired in some areas, it was valuable to me and gave me some good ideas for me and my exec, and it would be a good resource to new assistants as well. I highlighted a ton of things and I viewed this book as an affordable means of professional development, and hopefully a springboard for more development.
Overall the book has some good advice for executive assistants from a seasoned executive assistant--tips for calendaring, cutting down on unneeded meetings, time management, and more. This book is about cultivating your leadership capabilities and confidence, as well as a practical guide to improvement. The book goes over the qualities that make a good assistant, which seem kind of like "Well, duh, of course!" at times, but to be fair, sometimes we forget these qualities are needed, or an assistant might be new and not know what are all the qualities they need. A section of the book covers networking and the final section of the book offers some advice for identifying and addressing burnout, which is crucial in such a high-stress job.
The book had wonderful grammar and was easy to read overall--you could easily read this book in a few hours over a few days if you read a pillar or half a pillar a day. The chapters are typically short and sweet.
The thing I found frustrating about this book was that sometimes it left me wanting more, like at times it felt like it was only scratching the surface. In particular, I was frustrated with the resume chapter since it suggested a tactic that I think it risky without addressing the ramifications of that risky tactic, AND no examples of resumes were provided--unfortunately the way the chapter was written, and the withholding of an example you could see or copy, made it seem like a pitch to get you to sign up for his and his friend's course on resumes, which is referenced/suggested in that chapter. The website for resources associated with the book, as well as the book itself, had multiple pitches/references to the services the author offers, and as his email subscriber, some of these services aren't cheap either. He has a free podcast, but other than that, you're looking at paying for his live events, coaching, classes, etc. Thankfully, though, the book does have value and isn't just a superficial attempt to boost sales of all his other products/services, but I think it pays to be aware that this is a small annoying aspect of this book, especially the resume chapter.
Overall, this is a good introduction to being an assistant and instead of being "just" an assistant, how to be a LEADER Assistant. Even if the book leaves some depth to be desired in some areas, it was valuable to me and gave me some good ideas for me and my exec, and it would be a good resource to new assistants as well. I highlighted a ton of things and I viewed this book as an affordable means of professional development, and hopefully a springboard for more development.
July 24, 2024
I was transitioning from an office manager role to a Senior Executive Assistant position and although I felt confident in the interview and hiring process, the imposter syndrome kicked in weeks before my start date. As I googled and found Jeremy's Book and Podcast, I began to feel more confident and assured in my abilities to handle this new position.
With practical tips and ways to improve this book is a must read for EAs and aspiring EAs in any industry. Of course, each executive and organization is different, but the tenets of a great assistant are the same.
With practical tips and ways to improve this book is a must read for EAs and aspiring EAs in any industry. Of course, each executive and organization is different, but the tenets of a great assistant are the same.
December 15, 2021
I read this a part of a book club of assistants at my job and we all enjoyed it. It gave good tips on how to be a leader in the assistant role not just support. Having been an assistant for a long time I am always interested in improving my skills and knowledge within the role. It’s different that other assistant books I’ve read in the past because as time changes the role has evolved into partnering with your executive vs knowing their favorite lunch order.
July 18, 2024
I’ve read a decent amount of EA books, and this one really is great. Even being an EA for a long time this gives some great resources and knowledge. Definitely recommend reading if in the role, or interested in it.
February 18, 2024
A great resource with valuable info and tips.
January 21, 2023
Fantastic! Ordered the workbook also, great read for EAs and Operation positions.
December 4, 2023
Thank you!
Thank you for taking the time to write this book Mr. Burrows. It was well written and extremely insightful. It has great tips to help you recognize and avoid burnout. Every leader assistant should take the time to read this book.
Thank you for taking the time to write this book Mr. Burrows. It was well written and extremely insightful. It has great tips to help you recognize and avoid burnout. Every leader assistant should take the time to read this book.
July 2, 2020
Game-Changer
I learned so much from Jeremy’s experience and wisdom. He is honest and vulnerable about his personal and professional journey. The four pillars concept is something I can implement in my own life.
I learned so much from Jeremy’s experience and wisdom. He is honest and vulnerable about his personal and professional journey. The four pillars concept is something I can implement in my own life.
January 4, 2023
Entertaining & Informative!
This book was comical, truthful and makes you think. Thank you for such a delightful read. You won’t be disappointed.
This book was comical, truthful and makes you think. Thank you for such a delightful read. You won’t be disappointed.
January 2, 2023
Excellent book!
March 23, 2023
must read for Executive Assistants and those who aspiring to that level!
The Leader Assistant is amazing. I can’t believe I waited this long to start and finish this book. Absolutely amazing! This is a must read for any admin who wants to take their career to the next level and raise the bar for themself. Thank you Jeremy! I am so encouraged about what lies ahead for me in my role and what is to come.
The Leader Assistant is amazing. I can’t believe I waited this long to start and finish this book. Absolutely amazing! This is a must read for any admin who wants to take their career to the next level and raise the bar for themself. Thank you Jeremy! I am so encouraged about what lies ahead for me in my role and what is to come.
June 12, 2024
I loved all the ideas he put in here. I got the audio then I needed to buy the actual book so I could look things up.
August 14, 2022
Do Assistants matter? Yes they do! Like everyone else they can burnout. Jeremy Burrows does a good laying out warnings signs and then points you in the right direction. He shares good and bad examples from his experiences. I feel he missed an opportunity when he didn’t address what happens if you find yourself or another assistant’s time and resources being misused. He implies all of this is within your control and that you should set boundaries- which he doesn’t go further on details that would help. This is only successful when the person you are assisting is onboard and supportive of a healthy work life balance. Note the author believes Jesus is the best example to follow. The few biblical examples were beautiful and speaks to Jeremy’s message well. It would also been helpful for those in a toxic situation to receive similar advice, otherwise it can lead people to believe that they need to simply endure the situation and continuously offer the other cheek. Possibly a book 2? Also a book 3: how to support your assistant.
Solid material. A bit dry at times. About 2/3rds in there was a chapter I didn’t agree with and while not entirely useless - some of the organization/tech tips I simply didn’t find helpful. Overall I did find several gold nuggets and reassurances. Most importantly I felt the book did a good job sharing the key foundation to being a good leader assistant, addressing burnout, and prioritizing taking care of yourself.
Solid material. A bit dry at times. About 2/3rds in there was a chapter I didn’t agree with and while not entirely useless - some of the organization/tech tips I simply didn’t find helpful. Overall I did find several gold nuggets and reassurances. Most importantly I felt the book did a good job sharing the key foundation to being a good leader assistant, addressing burnout, and prioritizing taking care of yourself.
June 3, 2022
Having been an Executive Assistant (EA) for C-Suite Executives for many years, I wasn't sure how relevant this book would be.
It. Is. Fantastic.
This game-changing resource works for both those new to the field as well as seasoned professionals. Jeremy breaks down the role and requirements into four pillars and is generous with both his advice and what has worked for him. Not only does Jeremy talk about the personality traits that elevate you as an EA, he tackles topics including AI and how to automate aspects of your work without automating yourself out of a job.
It's easy to read and I whipped through it in record time. I am so glad I purchased it as I know I will return it to time and time again. The journey doesn’t stop at the end of the book. He has given access to resources (hyperlinks, videos, templates) that you can use and review moving forward.
If you are an EA or are considering working in this field, I highly recommend this book.
It. Is. Fantastic.
This game-changing resource works for both those new to the field as well as seasoned professionals. Jeremy breaks down the role and requirements into four pillars and is generous with both his advice and what has worked for him. Not only does Jeremy talk about the personality traits that elevate you as an EA, he tackles topics including AI and how to automate aspects of your work without automating yourself out of a job.
It's easy to read and I whipped through it in record time. I am so glad I purchased it as I know I will return it to time and time again. The journey doesn’t stop at the end of the book. He has given access to resources (hyperlinks, videos, templates) that you can use and review moving forward.
If you are an EA or are considering working in this field, I highly recommend this book.
February 26, 2023
Jeremy Burrows writes a book that every Assistant needs to read. This book was filled with informative, educational, and anecdotal points that are easy to read. Jeremy's writing style is down to earth, relational, and challenging. Even if you've been an Assistant for 20+ years, you will still find something in this book that you can apply to your work (and even personal) life right away.
May 30, 2022
Simply phenomenal!
I realised I'm so many of the things in this book and I also learned a lot of stuff to start/stop doing.
If I wasn't working as an EA, I'd probably have read this book in two days 😂
I realised I'm so many of the things in this book and I also learned a lot of stuff to start/stop doing.
If I wasn't working as an EA, I'd probably have read this book in two days 😂
February 21, 2022
My CEO recommended this book & even paid for my Kindle device. Very helpful and I learned a lot from it!
November 10, 2022
This book is great for someone new to the space and working as an EAA. I've been working as an EAA for years most of the book was things I already knew but it was a nice reminder
March 13, 2024
Fantastic, directly relates to assistants.
January 6, 2021
Great Overall Resource
Quick and engaging read. The book focuses not only on professional development for Executive Assistants, but also on ways to help the reader grow on a more personal level.
I suggested to the EAs at my office that we read this book together as a sort of professional book club. For the most part, we all enjoyed it and found some valuable gems of information. Candidly, I didn't think I was going to get much out of it as an EA of nearly a decade who has been through her fair share of work battles, but I have learned enough over the years to know there is always something to learn if you're open. Although for me there wasn't this grand explosion of new ideas and innovations in the book, I did find that it helped kick start my career drive and my motivation to grow.
The Leader Assistant is a resource for admins at all stages - it's a wealth of wisdom and knowledge for beginners, a motivator for those who are looking to grow from their current roles, and a friendly little kick-in-the-pants reminder for the more seasoned admins.
I enjoyed reading about Burrows' experiences. It made the book relatable and easy to read. I didn't agree with every point he made, but the points themselves were clearly conveyed, well thought out, and easy to digest. I would recommend the book to any administrative assistant looking for a career boost.
Quick and engaging read. The book focuses not only on professional development for Executive Assistants, but also on ways to help the reader grow on a more personal level.
I suggested to the EAs at my office that we read this book together as a sort of professional book club. For the most part, we all enjoyed it and found some valuable gems of information. Candidly, I didn't think I was going to get much out of it as an EA of nearly a decade who has been through her fair share of work battles, but I have learned enough over the years to know there is always something to learn if you're open. Although for me there wasn't this grand explosion of new ideas and innovations in the book, I did find that it helped kick start my career drive and my motivation to grow.
The Leader Assistant is a resource for admins at all stages - it's a wealth of wisdom and knowledge for beginners, a motivator for those who are looking to grow from their current roles, and a friendly little kick-in-the-pants reminder for the more seasoned admins.
I enjoyed reading about Burrows' experiences. It made the book relatable and easy to read. I didn't agree with every point he made, but the points themselves were clearly conveyed, well thought out, and easy to digest. I would recommend the book to any administrative assistant looking for a career boost.
December 22, 2022
Overall a good resource for EAs who are just starting but for more experienced EAs not so much. Although the author is actually both an EA AND a PA. There were times I couldn’t relate to his approaches due to that. For example, driving to his exec’s house to pick up his driver’s license, picking him up at the airport, answering phone calls on the weekend, etc. In my EA role, I’m not expected to do those personal things/favors.
I didn’t like the format of the book (so much wasted space!) and how he constantly mentioned tips and tricks that might be helpful only to give you the link to his website…. Because there wasn’t enough space on the book. Seriously?! I never visited the links but somebody mentioned on Amazon that they cost money (just as I suspected). I already bought the book, why couldn’t this information be included for free?
There were also a few religious mentions. Totally unnecessary but they were there: “even God rested on the seven day, and Jesus took a nap on a boat in the middle of a storm.” So cringe.
This book could have been a blog post as the content is not substantial, certainly not groundbreaking. It’s pretty much everything we already know and do.
I didn’t like the format of the book (so much wasted space!) and how he constantly mentioned tips and tricks that might be helpful only to give you the link to his website…. Because there wasn’t enough space on the book. Seriously?! I never visited the links but somebody mentioned on Amazon that they cost money (just as I suspected). I already bought the book, why couldn’t this information be included for free?
There were also a few religious mentions. Totally unnecessary but they were there: “even God rested on the seven day, and Jesus took a nap on a boat in the middle of a storm.” So cringe.
This book could have been a blog post as the content is not substantial, certainly not groundbreaking. It’s pretty much everything we already know and do.
May 28, 2021
I will be super honest here (which is a saying I detest, if you have to say you are being honest, does this mean you never are, unless you say you are?) I was skeptical about this book, and how this fellow EA’s book would be different from any of the other EA books I have read. I was pleasantly surprised. Jeremy is open and honest about his life as an EA, his family, and burning out. I bookmarked so many things that I will go back and read again and try to implement into my own EA practice. If he did not know something, he brought in colleagues and friends who are experts; that is just smart! Thank you, Jeremy for a well written book that has a ton of great information and is presented in a way that keeps your readers engaged.
February 13, 2024
Finally, a relatable (business-wise) book!
I have read a decent amount of books about how to be better in your work, climb the "corporate ladder," manage time/ people/ yourself better, and create a work-life balance... none of them are like this.
Jeremy writes from the heart and experience.
His book is something between memoirs and a manual.
He is honest and straightforward, he doesn't write in corporate language, and he doesn't exaggerate (and diminish, for that matter) what it means to be an EA/ Operations magician:)
You will re-read some parts of the book and ask yourself: "Is this really what I do? Is this a job for me?" but continue reading...
Thank you, Jeremy!
I have read a decent amount of books about how to be better in your work, climb the "corporate ladder," manage time/ people/ yourself better, and create a work-life balance... none of them are like this.
Jeremy writes from the heart and experience.
His book is something between memoirs and a manual.
He is honest and straightforward, he doesn't write in corporate language, and he doesn't exaggerate (and diminish, for that matter) what it means to be an EA/ Operations magician:)
You will re-read some parts of the book and ask yourself: "Is this really what I do? Is this a job for me?" but continue reading...
Thank you, Jeremy!
December 1, 2020
First half felt familiar but he’s laying a foundation for the stellar second half. I took lots of notes and highly recommend this book for those in the EA role.
I also loved that he didn’t preach and I didn’t know he is a Christian until he just dropped a Tim Keller quote... and then a C.S. Lewis quote... and then Jesus was the first name in the Acknowledgments. Well played.
I also loved that he didn’t preach and I didn’t know he is a Christian until he just dropped a Tim Keller quote... and then a C.S. Lewis quote... and then Jesus was the first name in the Acknowledgments. Well played.
January 24, 2021
A Much Needed Resource
I can't recall how I stumbled upon Jeremy's work but this book and his podcast have been amazing resources as I stepped out into a role I have never officially held before but one in hindsight I have been unknowingly prepared for my entire career.
Thank you, Jeremy for documenting your journey and sharing it to help others.
I can't recall how I stumbled upon Jeremy's work but this book and his podcast have been amazing resources as I stepped out into a role I have never officially held before but one in hindsight I have been unknowingly prepared for my entire career.
Thank you, Jeremy for documenting your journey and sharing it to help others.
June 14, 2022
There were some really good nuggets of information in here that I will go back and reference, along with the supporting materials on-line. I find it helpful to hear about other assistant's journeys as I often feel like I am all alone on this road. It also validated what I am already doing and should continue to do. I don't regret take the time to listen to this book at all.
April 25, 2021
Thought provoking page turner! I couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed the insight and look forward to utilizing what I read into every day interaction when appropriate. Thank you! Highly recommended.
May 31, 2021
Jeremy offers great tips and advice for both new and experienced Assistants. I truly enjoyed reading every chapter and the many chuckles from his personal stories (happies and crappies...love it! LOL!) I plan to keep this book within arm’s reach and will suggest it to all of my EA friends.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews