The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Pinnacle Awards were announced Oct. 11, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 30.
Next is Executive Assistant of the Year (Public Company) finalist Carol Ford, who’s assistant to the CEO at Serco. Here, she talks success in her current role, learning from failures, career advice and more.
What has made you successful in your current role?
As a former staff member for a U.S. Senator and two U.S. Congressional representatives, I had to be pro-active and fast-paced in managing projects that advanced their priorities. As an executive assistant for almost five years, I use these skills to promote the priorities of the CEO and the company. By anticipating the CEO’s needs and concerns, I am able to lead in collaborating with others at all levels of the company to provide solutions.
What’s one key thing you learned from a failure you had?
I look at failures as opportunities to learn and grow. My motto is “make your failure a successful failure.” There is always a lesson to learn from any mistake, and you need to know how to deal successfully with adversity.
What’s your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
My best career advice for other EAs is be trustworthy, work well under pressure, follow the tech-trends to continually learn new skills, be extremely organized, and know your company and its industry. Being a good writer is critical for drafting/editing messages for the CEO. Personally, I try to keep a sense of humor and stay positive!