This article is part of a series published on our LinkedIn account by guest writers. Today's article was written by  Gina Theofilidou, Member IMA Greece on 6th August 2024.

One of the most critical aspects of this role is managing ethical considerations and confidentiality. From my experience as a personal assistant, particularly during an acquisition, I have seen firsthand how essential these principles are. 

Ethical behavior and confidentiality are cornerstones in the assistant role and more about than following a set of rules; it involves embodying honesty, transparency, and respect even when faced with difficult choices. 

Here are key things to consider: 

• Safeguarding personal and proprietary information from unauthorized access. 

• Knowing what information should remain confidential. 

• Upholding non-disclosure agreements and internal policies is not only a legal obligation but a fundamental ethical practice. 

It is important to build a culture of trust. How you do that: 

• By clear communication where confidentiality and ethical behavior are prioritized. 

• By continuous education, meaning staying informed about best practices in data protection and ethical practices. 

• By using the supportive policies of the organization like clear guidelines and systems that empower you to uphold ethical standards and confidentiality. 

As the business world continues to evolve, the emphasis on these principles will only grow, reinforcing the indispensable value of ethical and confidential conduct in the assistant role. 

My Pro Tips: 

• Always use secure methods for sharing sensitive information. Encrypted emails and secure messaging apps. 

• Participate in regular training sessions on data protection and ethical practices to stay updated on the latest standards and regulations. 

• Create a clear protocol for handling confidential information. This should include guidelines on document storage, access controls, and procedures for reporting breaches. 

 

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This article is penned by Gina Theofilidou at Your Distance Assistance and member of IMA Greece. 

The Guest Writer series features contributions from IMA members worldwide, showcasing the diverse experiences and expertise of management assistants within our network. Each piece offers unique perspectives, practical advice, and personal reflections from professionals in the field. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.