Are you an EA or PA? Now there’s a network just for you

Posted on 12 October, 2021

If lockdown has reinforced one thing, it’s just how important having a network is.

On a personal level, that might be family, friends, neighbours or some kind of other community forged out of shared interests or circumstances. Having these networks in place not only brings joy, but can help build a sense of connection and prevent loneliness, which is so important for mental wellbeing.

Professionally, it might be your colleagues or others in the same industry. Having a strong professional network can help you improve your skills, gain new insight, keep across the latest industry trends, and advance in your career.

And if you’re an EA or PA, there’s a Canberra-based network that’s just for you.

Launched earlier this year, the LEAD EA Network is run by EAs and PAs, for EAs and PAs. It was created by the team at Capital EA, a boutique agency who provide placement and matching services for executives looking for quality staff, as well as professional and personal development for EAs.

Capital EA founder Ursula Kohler says she was constantly being asked about establishing a network just for EAs and PAs, so the LEAD EA Network was born.

“All of us need a touch point in our careers, whether it be when we’re just starting out, if we’ve been working at it a long time, or we’re looking at a crossroads in our career and need to make some decisions,” says Ursula.

“By joining the LEAD EA Network, you will have access to your relevant career area needs through participation and collaboration in our leading and first-class events, programs, forums and access to our coaches, classes, ambassadors. There is even the potential to be awarded with recognition for the role you do so well through our annual awards.”

Founder of Capital EA Ursula Kohler at a LEAD EA event.

The LEAD EA Network is open to all EAs and PEs across both the private and public sectors.

There are three levels of membership, from a free membership through to the premium Network Vista membership which includes a one hour coaching session with a qualified coach, plus exclusive offers and discounts.

Members also have access to mentoring by LEAD EA’s expert Advisory Committee Members or ambassadors, who all have vast experience working in the industry.

Depending on their career stage, members are split into three categories—enterprising, leading or pathways—to ensure they get the right support and mentorship for them.

A LEAD EA event.

“The unique value of the LEAD EA Network is our committee members, that include shareholders in each State. In Canberra, these include executive assistants Donna McTavish and Geraldine Rossiter,” says Ursula.

If you’re feeling a bit isolated and keen to socialise with others, LEAD EA Network has a number of events coming up soon for members—both virtual, and in-person when possible.

There’s a book club, a networking event, a workshop on how to fuel your workday through healthy eating, a hotel and special venues tour, and a virtual beginner’s crochet class, led by fellow EA Elizabeth Colquhoun.

A LEAD EA event.

“At our in-person events, we keep numbers small so our participants can form genuine connections with others,” says Ursula.

To join the LEAD EA Network, you can sign up online. And if you buy a 12-month membership, you receive two months free. All memberships also include a free discovery call with a member of the Advisory Committee.

Lead EA Network will also be launching in Melbourne next year, followed by further states, once committees have been fully established.

A LEAD EA event.