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Yes, CEOs are under pressure from all sides, and…

“Yes, CEOs are under pressure from all sides, and executives have all sorts of people pushing and pulling at them. But too often, they begin to view and treat their teams, and especially their assistants, as appliances. And a good assistant knows that the last thing their boss wants to hear from…” quote by Mark Goulston
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“Yes, CEOs are under pressure from all sides, and executives have all sorts of people pushing and pulling at them. But too often, they begin to view and treat their teams, and especially their assistants, as appliances. And a good assistant knows that the last thing their boss wants to hear from them is a personal complaint about anything.”

Mark Goulston

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

CEOs face pressure and often view assistants as tools; assistants should avoid personal complaints, reflecting a transactional dynamic.

In simple terms: Executives treat assistants as appliances; assistants should not complain.

Key Takeaway

Maintain professional boundaries.

Themes

business leadership workplace dynamics

Mood

pragmatic concerned

Type

professional advisory

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • performance reviews
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

management theory organizational behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can assistants voice concerns safely?
  • What changes improve workplace respect?
A Different Perspective

Such dynamics can harm morale.

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