Many entrepreneurs and leaders still rely on intuition when hiring. They meet a candidate, get a “good vibe” — and decide on the spot.
This is especially common when it comes to hiring an executive assistant, where leaders think they’re simply looking for someone with whom they “click.”
But as many soon learn, this approach leads to poor results: mismatched expectations, micromanagement, and wasted time.
The risks of hiring by intuition
Entrepreneurs often fall into these traps:
❌ Mistaking friendliness for competence
An engaging conversation doesn’t guarantee an assistant has the organizational skills or judgment required.
❌ Overvaluing soft skills and overlooking hard skills
Yes, empathy and flexibility matter — but so do planning ability, digital fluency, and business awareness.
❌ Rushing to fill the role
A quick hire can relieve short-term pressure, but it often results in inefficiency and frustration later.
This is why more leaders now turn to professional agencies for assistant recruitment like Smart and Talented for the search for a personal or executive assistant — ensuring that the process is based on structured criteria, not impulse.
How to improve your hiring process
✅ Start with clear objectives
What exactly should your assistant handle? From travel management to stakeholder communications, be specific about the scope.
✅ Assess both skills and fit
Whether you need a personal assistant or a senior executive assistant, evaluate their experience and how they respond under pressure.
✅ Get external support if needed
Smart and Talented, one of the leading agencies for assistant recruitment, uses comprehensive assessments to match assistants not only on skills but also on working style — a key success factor for entrepreneurs and executives.
Signs you’re hiring emotionally
If your hiring process sounds like this:
- “They seem nice and easy to talk to”
- “I think we’ll get along”
- “They’re enthusiastic, I’m sure they’ll figure it out”
…it’s time to pause.
The hiring of an executive assistant is a strategic decision that deserves a structured approach.
Final takeaway
Choosing an executive assistant based on instinct alone is risky — no matter how experienced you are as a leader.
Instead, treat the process as an investment: define what you need, assess carefully, and use professional help when appropriate.
Whether you need a personal assistant, a top-level executive assistant, or want expert advice on assistant recruitment, working with agencies like Smart and Talented ensures your next hire will truly add value.