Executive Assistant of the Week: Houston

Linda Thompson
Executive Assistant
Formerly at Stage Stores

Linda, formerly from Stage Stores & Foley/Macy’s, has the tenure of a veteran. She started her administrative career with Foley’s supporting one executive and transitioned to Stage Stores to supporting over four executives of varying levels. When Stage moved their offices to the Galleria Area of Houston, Linda took on the role of EA to the SVP of Operations. Assisting the EVP and team, Linda did a remarkable job coordinating special events planning, scheduling/itineraries of their corporate plane and the day-to-day functions of the department. Linda’s last position was as AA to the SVP of Real Estate/Construction/Facilities Departments, where she wore many hats to keep the department moving in the right direction. One of the many aspects of Linda’s role was getting her team of bosses off to a conference. From flights, hotels, cars, itineraries with increments of 30 minute meetings with each landlord, including all reference materials in hand, she got the job done. In her spare time, Linda loves to go to the beach, listen to live music and loves any type of car racing.

Linda Thompson will be one of the distinguished contributors at the ELS Forum: Houston on September 19, 2019

1) If you could say something to people who think you’re “just an admin” or “just a secretary,” what would it be? What would you say to other assistants who still have that mindset?

“Just an Admin, just a secretary”, come on folks. We are the glue that holds our Departments, teams and bosses together. We are the “go to” person when someone needs prompt, accurate and quick-thinking answers or actions. We are A+ bosses ourselves.

2) Name a mentor who made an impact on your career and explain why.

My mentor would be Bob Price, now of Dale Carnegie. When I started out in this field of dreams 25+ years ago, he was the one who trained, coached, and helped me be the executive business partner that I am today. He gave me a chance to find out what I wanted to do with my now lifelong career. Bob taught me to “measure twice, cut once,” meaning double and triple check your work to make the most of your precious time. He has continued to assist me when needed in life and will be my lifelong friend.

3) The best part of my day is________.

The best part of my day is at the end of the day. Not only is it time to go home, I can go home knowing that I have given 110% of myself to my job and those whom I work with.