How to Boost Job Happiness by Choosing Who You Work For
Let’s talk honestly about certain jobs and how we see them. This isn’t a criticism—just a personal view that might make you look at your own work differently.
First, let’s look at the job of a secretary. Not so long ago, being a secretary was seen as a respectable role. But now, most secretarial jobs have been replaced by “executive assistant” or “administrative assistant” positions. The title sounds better—after all, “executive” or “director” is in there—but at the core, it’s still very close to being a secretary. The tasks have changed a bit, but the essence is the same. It’s just an upgraded version of the old job.
Here’s something I’ve noticed: most people I know who have been executive assistants—including my own sister—aren’t very happy in that role. They often mention having to fetch coffee for their boss or refill the fruit basket. In the end, it’s still a secretary’s job, and that’s fine. But to truly enjoy this work, you need to admire your boss.
If you’re thinking about becoming an executive assistant, the most important thing is to find a director you truly admire. When you work closely with someone you look up to, it becomes much more than just a job. You’re supporting someone you respect, and that can be a wonderful experience. But if you end up working for just any director—someone who doesn’t inspire you or who isn’t very ambitious—you won’t grow much from the experience.
On the other hand, if you work for a director who is smart, inspiring, and driven, you’ll find yourself growing too. But if your boss is just average, don’t expect your job to lift you up. That’s why it’s so important to be strategic about where—and for whom—you work.
Let’s look at another job: cleaner. Today, we use titles like “surface technician” or “cleaning agent.” It sounds fancier, but it’s still about cleaning. And honestly, cleaning is a beautiful and necessary job. We all need clean spaces, and when someone does this job well, everyone appreciates it. The problem is, it’s rare to find someone who truly cleans well.
If you want to be a cleaner or “surface technician,” choose your workplace carefully. For example, being the cleaner for a royal palace or a high-end Airbnb is very different from cleaning just anywhere. In these places, your work is highly valued. If you do a great job, people notice, and your pay can be much higher—sometimes double or triple the usual rate. Why? Because if you leave and the place isn’t spotless, the value of that Airbnb or palace drops immediately. One hair or coffee stain can mean a bad review and lost business.
So, whether you’re an executive assistant or a cleaner, the key is to be strategic. Choose your boss or your workplace wisely. If you work for someone inspiring or in a place that values your work, you’ll be rewarded—not just with money, but with satisfaction and growth.
It’s not just about what you do, but who you do it for and where you do it.
Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life. — Confucius
You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with. — Jim Rohn
Key Takeaways
- Job titles change, but the core tasks often stay the same.
- Your happiness at work depends a lot on who you work for.
- If you admire your boss, your job will feel more meaningful.
- The value of your work can increase dramatically depending on where and for whom you do it.
- Be strategic: choose your boss and workplace with care.
Action Steps
- Before accepting a job, ask yourself if you admire the person you’ll be working for.
- If you’re in a support role, look for leaders who inspire you.
- If you’re in a service job, aim for workplaces that value and reward quality work.
Reflection
Are you working for someone who lifts you up? Does your workplace value your contribution? What could you change to feel more fulfilled in your job?
Pierre-Henry Soria
#Career Advice #Choosing Employers #Entrepreneurship #Executive Assistant #Job Satisfaction #Money #Tasks #Time-Management #Workplace Happiness