What separates a good assistant from a great one

We talked to our top-rated assistants and asked what they think makes the difference. The answers were remarkably consistent.

First: anticipation. Great assistants notice what's about to be needed before being asked.

Second: clear, calm communication. Confirming the small things prevents the big things from going wrong.

Third: discretion. The best assistants treat every detail of an executive's life as confidential by default.