Do Virtual Assistants Travel with Their Bosses?

The relationship between virtual assistants (EAs) and their bosses is multifaceted, especially when it comes to travel arrangements. In many cases, virtual assistants frequently accompany their bosses, particularly if the boss has a bustling schedule that requires meetings, conferences, or events in various locations.

Role of a Virtual Assistant

Virtual assistants play a crucial role in managing logistics, schedules, and communication, which are essential during travel. They handle various tasks such as booking flights and accommodations, creating itineraries, and making sure their boss is well-prepared for meetings or engagements. However, whether an EA travels or not can depend on the specific job requirements and the preferences of the boss.

First-Hand Experience

As the Founder and CEO of a large company, I have personal experience with this dynamic. My EA is compensated as a senior EA and is often traveling with me. My EA is responsible for setting up and creating an agenda for each meeting or gathering slated for the trip. Unlike a traditional personal assistant, my EA does not handle tasks such as ironing my shirts or running personal errands. Instead, they concentrate on coordinating all foreign travel, ensuring consecutive meetings or functions run seamlessly, and minimizing downtime. When we are traveling, the EA stays current on all corporate matters and alerts me to any urgent matters that require my attention back at Headquarters.

Not only does my EA manage travel logistics, but they act as a bridge between me and my senior staff. All members of my senior staff understand that anything stated by the EA must be treated with the same urgency and importance as if it came directly from me. This trust is critical in maintaining smooth operations, especially when we are away from the office.

Diverse Perspectives

My experience is unique, but there are other viewpoints on this topic. For instance, I have been part of a company where the EA occasionally accompanied a team of staff for special events. These were occasions where a diverse group of employees was necessary to ensure the success of the event. In these cases, the EA's role in travel coordination was essential, but it was not a constant requirement.

On the other hand, I have also experienced different working conditions. There have been instances where I accompanied my CEO on business trips, meaning I traveled along, as it was essential to support his needs on the road. Conversely, there have been situations where my boss preferred me to stay in the office and act as his liaison for any immediate issues that arose.

The decision to travel with a boss can depend greatly on the size of the organization, the level of support needed by C-level executives, and the specific demands of the current situation. For example, in smaller companies or less demanding roles, EAs may not travel as frequently. Conversely, in larger organizations or high-stakes scenarios, the need for an EA to travel can be greater.

Overall, the role of a virtual assistant in travel-related matters can be integral, especially in ensuring a smooth and productive trip. The key to success lies in the clear understanding and communication of expectations between the EA and their boss, regardless of whether they travel together or not.

Conclusion

Whether or not a virtual assistant travels with their boss is a topic that varies based on the individual situation. For me, it has been a valuable and enriching experience. It highlights the unique responsibilities and opportunities that come with the role of an EA. The core of success lies in effective communication, clear expectations, and the ability to manage both on-site and remote tasks seamlessly.

Do you have any stories or experiences to share about virtual assistants and travel? Let us know in the comments below.