When you're building a business from the ground up, your time becomes your most valuable asset. In the beginning, you're often wearing every hat—CEO, marketer, bookkeeper, scheduler, and more. At some point, you’ll realize: you need help. But should your first hire be an executive assistant or an administrative assistant?
Let’s break it down so you can make the smartest move for your startup.
What Does an Admin Assistant Do?
An administrative assistant is the person who helps take care of the daily tasks that keep your
business organized and running smoothly. Think of them as your behind-the-scenes support system.
They usually handle:
Their main job? Freeing up your time by taking repetitive and time-consuming tasks off your plate.
What’s the Role of an Executive Assistant?
An executive assistant provides higher-level support. Instead of just handling tasks, they help manage your time, goals, and strategy. They’re a great fit once your business has grown and your day is packed with investor calls, strategic meetings, and long-term planning.
Typical EA responsibilities include:
An EA is almost like a second-in-command when it comes to organization and planning.
So, Who Should Be Your First Hire?
If your business is still in its early stages, an admin assistant is usually the smarter first hire. Why? Because they can make a big impact right away without requiring a complex onboarding process. The tasks they handle are easier to delegate and clearly defined, so you'll see immediate results—more time, less stress, and better organization.
Why Start with an Admin Assistant?
Here are four reasons why most founders benefit more from hiring an admin assistant first:
1. Instant Time Relief
You’re probably spending too much time scheduling, emailing, and organizing—things an admin assistant can easily manage.
2. Quick and Easy to Onboard
Their tasks are clear-cut, and you can delegate without needing to create formal systems or training plans.
3. Immediate Impact
You’ll quickly notice how much smoother your day runs and how much more energy you have when someone else handles the small stuff.
4. Better Use of Your Focus
Your focus should be on strategy, sales, and building your product—not booking Zoom calls or tracking receipts.
When to Bring in an Executive Assistant
Once your business grows and your schedule is packed with meetings, partnerships, and decisions, it may be time to bring in an EA. If you’re constantly feeling overwhelmed by big-picture responsibilities or strategic distractions, an executive assistant can help lighten the load.
You’ll know it’s time when:
Final Thought: Build the Right Support at the Right Time
Startups are fast-paced, messy, and exciting. In the early stages, what you really need is someone who can clean up the chaos—enter the admin assistant. They’re the ones who can keep your day flowing and help you focus on what matters most.
As your company matures and your responsibilities grow and at the same time your role becomes more strategic, that’s when an executive assistant becomes your secret weapon—someone who helps you lead, scale, and think strategically.
Hiring isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about removing roadblocks so you can move forward with confidence. So, start with the basics. Grow with purpose. And build a support team that
evolves alongside your business.
Start simple. Hire thoughtfully. Build a team that grows with you
