Kim Bartman (KB), Kutula Miyeki (KM) and Saffiya Ismail (SI), EAs to top South African CFOs, reflect on what skills will keep EAs ahead in an AI-powered workplace. They point to AI mastery, data literacy and adaptability, and balancing tech know-how with people skills.
As artificial intelligence continues to transform the modern workplace, the role of the executive assistant (EA) is undergoing a profound shift, from being task-driven support to becoming an indispensable strategic partner.
In a recent conversation with CFO South Africa, Kim Bartman EA to Bothwell Mazarura, outgoing CFO of Kumba Iron Ore; Kutula Miyeki, EA to Vincent Motholo, CFO at UCT; and Saffiya Ismail, the EA to Rupesh Govan, financial director of Investec, shared their perspectives on the essential skills EAs must develop to stay ahead in the AI era.
While each highlighted unique priorities, they all agreed on one thing: embracing AI is not optional, it’s a career imperative.
What skills do you think EAs need to develop to stay ahead in an AI-powered workplace?
KB: We need to upskill in AI-related technologies, particularly in tools commonly used in the EA space, such as scheduling, email and project management systems. Staying updated on the latest developments through webinars, workshops, networking and ongoing training sessions is essential.
While analytics and interpretation are crucial for EAs, our ability to simplify and apply the insights gained, combined with emotional and social intelligence, enhances our value as EAs.
Additionally, we need to:
- Develop our strategic thinking and enhance skills through training in areas like project management, business knowledge, event management and communication.
- Contribute to AI’s knowledge base to ensure it provides support tailored to our business needs.
KM: I believe EAs need to focus on the following:
- AI literacy and tool proficiency: Understanding AI fundamentals, prompt engineering, AI tool proficiency.
- Data analysis and interpretation: Data literacy, data visualisation.
- Enhanced communication and interpersonal skills: Emotional intelligence, strategic communication, relationship management.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: Analytical thinking, decision-making, adaptability.
- Technological adaptability and continuous learning: Tech savviness, continuous learning.
By developing these skills, EAs can position themselves as valuable strategic partners in an AI-powered workplace, contributing to organisational success and advancing their careers.
SI: While AI may seem intimidating, understanding how it works and its limits is
essential. To stay ahead, EAs need to understand AI processes and data and how to
effectively use AI for automation and insights. And use it effectively.
- Processes and data: Having intricate knowledge of the processes which we share and how to improve operational efficiency.
- Data literacy and insights: Knowing how to use data to improve our engagement and output. Data can be text, numbers, conversations etc.
- Tech knowledge: Know what AI tools are available and how they work, like chatbots and automation. You don’t need to code, but you should be familiar with these tools.
- People skills: AI won’t replace human interaction. Strong communication, relationship-building, and emotional intelligence are still crucial.
- Adaptability and learning: Be flexible and ready to learn, unlearn and relearn new things. Attend webinars, workshops, and get certifications. Networking is also important.
By developing these skills, EAs will remain valuable and relevant in an AI-powered workplace. It’s about embracing change and making it work for us.
