In the last article I posted, I touched on Hierarchy and Power Dynamics in the workplace, particularly in corporate cultures where hierarchical structures dictate whose opinions are most valued. EAs (Executive Assistants), who typically report directly to high-level executives, often find themselves in a power dynamic where individuals with more prestigious job titles may drown out their voices. After the article went live, I received a flood of messages from many of you, sharing your own experiences and struggles in dealing with similar situations.
So many of you expressed how you encounter these dynamics in your own roles. It’s disheartening but not uncommon: one person in the organization wants total control, constantly micromanaging tasks and overshadowing your contributions. Often, this individual holds a higher title and wields authority, but what drives their behavior is usually insecurity, not capability. Despite their rank, they need to exert control, believing they are always right and reluctant to ask for help or value other opinions. Moreover, they often seek direct access to your executive, cutting you out of critical communications and discussions.
Unfortunately, when this happens, it leaves you feeling sidelined, undervalued, and disconnected. You may find yourself excluded from conversations you were previously part of, unaware of key details that help you stay on top of tasks, and ultimately feeling like you’re no longer a vital part of the team. This creates a feeling of frustration, leading to disillusionment about your role and your ability to contribute effectively.
So, the big question remains: How can you continue to do your job effectively when faced with these challenges, and how can you stop feeling disheartened?
1. Acknowledge and Understand the Situation
The first step is recognizing that these dynamics do not reflect your ability or worth. They result from corporate power struggles and insecurities that exist in many organizations. It’s important to separate your identity and value from the power plays happening around you. This understanding helps reduce the emotional impact and allows you to focus on what you can control.
Recognizing that these power dynamics stem from an individual’s insecurities can help depersonalize the situation. Their need to micromanage and control has less to do with your competence and more to do with their desire to feel in control. This understanding can help shift your mindset and prevent feelings of inadequacy.
2. Maintain Open and Proactive Communication
When someone tries to cut you out of key discussions or communications, proactive communication is one of the most effective tools you can use. Schedule regular check-ins with your executive or those you work closely with. Create opportunities to share updates, ask questions, and offer your insights before they are requested. This shows initiative and ensures you remain visible and engaged, even when someone else is attempting to sideline you.
Additionally, try to rebuild trust and transparency. If you're being left out of important communications, respectfully address it. Frame your request as a means to help the team run smoothly: “I want to make sure I have all the information needed to support the team and stay ahead of any issues.”
3. Strengthen Your Relationship with Your Executive
In some cases, the individual exerting control may be trying to become the primary voice in your executive's ear. To prevent this from happening, it's important to build and strengthen your own relationship with your executive. The more trust and rapport you build, the less likely it is that this other person will be able to completely sideline you.
One way to strengthen this relationship is to focus on consistently delivering value. Include your contributions, successes, and how you've helped the executive achieve their goals. Be a problem-solver. When you are the one offering effective solutions, your executive will naturally turn to you for advice and guidance.
4. Assert Your Role with Professionalism
If you’re being micromanaged or feel someone is stepping on your toes, asserting your role with confidence but with diplomacy is critical. There’s a balance between being firm about your responsibilities and not appearing confrontational. Document your tasks and deliverables to show how you contribute to the team’s overall success.
You might say, “I’ve been handling this aspect of the project and wanted to ensure I can continue doing so in a way that best supports our goals. How can we work together to ensure the team’s success?”
5. Lean on Support Networks
Feeling excluded or undermined can take an emotional toll, so it’s vital to seek support. Whether connecting with colleagues facing similar challenges or engaging with a mentor or coach, having a support network can provide valuable perspective. Sometimes, just talking through the situation with someone else helps relieve the burden and offers actionable advice.
Also, if your organization has an HR department or employee resources that deal with corporate culture issues, it might be worth discreetly seeking their input. They can provide guidance on navigating power dynamics in a way that aligns with company values.
6. Focus on Personal and Professional Growth
While dealing with an overbearing colleague can be exhausting, use it as an opportunity to sharpen your professional skills. You can enhance your emotional intelligence, communication strategies, and conflict-resolution abilities. These soft skills are essential in any workplace and will serve you well in the future, regardless of where your career takes you.
Consider enrolling in courses or workshops that focus on leadership development, even if you aren’t in a leadership role. Having the tools to navigate difficult situations boosts your confidence and ensures that you are always growing, even when faced with adversity.
7. Don’t Take it Personally – Focus on What You Can Control
Ultimately, one of the most critical points to remember is not to take these actions personally. Whether you’re left out of meetings or dealing with someone who feels the need to micromanage, these behaviors often reflect the other person’s issues, not yours. Focus on what you can control—your performance, attitude, and ability to bring value to the team.
When you shift your focus to what’s within your control, you regain a sense of agency and can continue to perform at your best, regardless of external factors.
Empowering Yourself Amidst Challenges
Navigating complex power dynamics and micromanagement in the workplace isn’t easy, but it’s a reality that many professionals, especially EAs, face. Remember, these behaviors are often rooted in insecurity, not your performance or value. By focusing on communication, building strong relationships, asserting your role with professionalism, and investing in your personal growth, you can continue to thrive—even when faced with these challenges. While no company is perfect, your ability to adapt and empower yourself will ultimately determine your success.
Comentários