The risks are obvious. Each boss is adamant that you must put his/her urgent assignments first — so managing your time and workload can be quite a struggle. And with duelling bosses to contend with, PAs can get caught in the crossfire, as PA Isabella Ellis* explains:
“The management styles of my two bosses contrast dramatically; one is an uptight workaholic while the other borders on lackadaisical,” she says. “Both continually claim, ‘My stuff is far more urgent than his!’ and think they are the centre of my world. I insist that we negotiate priorities to avoid petty tussles, but managing my bosses is often more complicated than managing my workload.”
Reporting to two or more bosses can be one of the most complex managerial situations to master — but it’s not impossible, according to David Clubb, managing director of Office Angels, the secretarial recruitment company.
“This isn’t a role for the weak- hearted,” says Clubb. “Shared PAs are office chameleons, forever changing roles and elements of their personalities to suit the tastes and preferences of each boss.”
According to Bill Brace, the operations director at Reed Employment, requests from clients for shared PAs are increasing steadily. “A shared PA role definitely increases one’s value to the company,” he says. “Not only will you have more responsibility, but the ability to manage different priorities, agendas and demands proves that you can work under pressure. Most shared PAs learn a wider spectrum of skills which can lead to career enhancement.”
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While many PAs may consider working for several managers too chaotic, others regard their status as a blessing.
Zena White has worked at the advertising agency network The Gate Worldwide for 17 years and reports to three bosses; the chairman, managing director and creative director.
“Theoretically my time should be split equally between the three directors but in reality this rarely happens,” she says. “But rather than pulling me in numerous directions, they allow me to prioritise my workload. It’s a challenge to apply a different working practice to each boss, but I’m lucky that they all get on very well — and they are lucky that I’m diplomatic and adaptable!”
* Name has been changed
Tips for successful sharing
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1 Communication is essential. If your bosses are to keep their expectations in check, they must be aware of your workload.
2 Be prepared to be flexible, as you will need to switch deftly between roles and projects.
3 Keep your bosses updated regularly on what the priorities are, so as to prevent any confusion or conflict.
4 Don’t panic if you hit a hurdle. Try to make it clear to all what is and isn’t feasible.