Building an EA Network That Supports Your Career and Your Work

Most Executive Assistants (EAs) can point to a moment when details went off course — a last-minute schedule change or an unexpected reservation that needed to be made quickly. Often, the fastest solution doesn’t come from a Google search or a spreadsheet, but from a quick message to another EA who’s navigated the same situation before.

That’s the power of a strong professional network. For Executive Assistants, networking isn’t about collecting contacts or making small talk. It’s about building trusted relationships to solve common problems faster, and grow into roles more comfortably.

Why networking matters for Executive Assistants 

A strong professional network supports how you work, how you solve problems, and how you grow in your role.

Sharpen your skills 

Gain insights from peers so your network becomes a place to exchange tools, resources, and real-world advice for challenges that are hard to solve alone. There’s no better perspective than someone who has — or is — doing the same work you are.

For example, if you need to find a restaurant in a city you haven’t planned in before, your network can act as a real-time resource. Instead of sorting through endless Reddit threads or Google reviews, you can ask a peer for a trusted recommendation they’ve already vetted.

Raise your visibility 

Visibility with other EAs, Chiefs of Staff, and cross-functional partners strengthens your professional influence. A well-connected network helps reinforce the value of your role, often leading to greater recognition and trust from your executive and stakeholders.

Working closely with one executive or organization can sometimes limit exposure to new approaches. Networking introduces you to different ways of working, tools, and ways of working — helping you evolve your role and avoid getting stuck in “this is how we’ve always done it.”

Build confidence 

Networking gives you context that doesn’t live in templates or policies. Learning how peers approach similar meetings, executives, or constraints helps you validate decisions early and stand behind them with confidence when questions come up.

How to build a network that works 

These are three steps you can take now to build a network that feels authentic, useful, and sustainable.

1. Start with intent

Be clear about why you’re building a network — whether it’s for learning, mentorship, support, career growth, or shared resources. The goal isn’t to collect contacts, but to build meaningful connections, so prioritizing quality over quantity makes a real difference.

Be an active listener and ask thoughtful questions to help guide the discussion naturally. For example, you might ask, “How do you stay up to date in your industry?” or “What advice would you give to someone looking to grow in a similar role?” This approach shows genuine interest and creates space for real connection, rather than another exchange of business cards.

2. Be strategic 

Focus on communities that align with your goals, whether that’s EA groups, professional organizations, Slack channels, LinkedIn communities, or local meetups. Being selective helps you invest your time where connections are most relevant and valuable.

Networking doesn’t have to happen externally, either. Building cross-functional relationships with teams like HR, Finance, and Operations can be just as impactful. These connections give you insight into internal priorities, upcoming hires, and shifting needs — all of which help you support your executive and plan more effectively.

3. Be helpful, and consistent

The strongest networks are reciprocal. Offering insight, sharing resources, and celebrating others’ wins builds trust and authenticity over time. Asking thoughtful questions like, “What meeting tools have you found indispensable this year?” opens the door to meaningful conversation.

Share what you know like AI prompts, travel tips, or vendor recommendations. People remember who’s helpful, and those connections are more likely to show up when you need support in return.

Finally, treat networking as an ongoing practice, not a one-time effort. Blocking time monthly to engage through comments, messages, calls, or coffee chats helps relationships stay active and relevant.

Build a strong network as an Executive Assistant

Building a strong professional network doesn’t require an outgoing personality, attending every event under the sun, or endless coffee chats. It requires intention, consistency, and a willingness to learn from others who understand your role. Over time, those relationships will help you show up with more confidence, clarity, and impact.