Remote work done right: Diona’s experience at Headroom
Meet one of our Executive Assistants Diona Haars. She will share her story about her experience at Headroom in this blog.
When did your EA journey start, and how?
I joined Headroom in April 2024, thanks to my friend and now colleague, Nikki Beunder. She introduced me to the company, and it felt like a perfect match from the very start.
What’s your favorite thing about working at Headroom?
The freedom, flexibility, and helpfulness of the team are definitely the standout qualities of Headroom. These aspects allow you to grow both professionally and personally. I’ve learned so much already, from working proactively to managing priorities more effectively, just a few of the many skills I’ve picked up along the way.
As an executive assistant, what do you find most rewarding about supporting CEOs in their day-to-day operations?
The most rewarding part of my role is seeing the genuine appreciation from my members when I take both big and small tasks off their plates. That sense of relief and gratitude makes all the difference.
Can you tell us about a challenging situation you faced as an EA and how you successfully handled it?
One of the most exciting projects I worked on was organizing a three-day offsite meeting abroad for one of my members. I found the perfect venue, a sort of mini-castle, and paired it with some amazing restaurants that exceeded everyone’s expectations. Another memorable challenge was finding the best asparagus farmer near Amsterdam for a member, even though it wasn’t asparagus season. It was a fun and diverse challenge, and I loved every minute of it!
What are some skills you believe every executive assistant should have, and how do you continuously improve those skills?
Proactive thinking and action are crucial, but patience is just as important. Not every situation will go smooth, but those moments are where you learn to stay calm and professional. They’re also opportunities to grow and improve.
You’ve been working closely with different entrepreneurs and high achieving individuals: what’s the secret sauce to a successful Executive – EA partnership? What’s a non negotiable?
The key is making sure your member feels truly heard and supported. Taking weight off their shoulders—whether it’s big or small tasks—helps them focus on what matters most. Every member is unique, so tailoring your approach to their personality is essential. Some members prefer a more playful dynamic, while others appreciate a highly professional relationship. The key is adaptability, paired with always putting yourself in their shoes to truly understand their perspective.
How do you prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently in a role that often demands multitasking and quick decision-making? What is your secret productivity hack?
Keeping a clear overview in Workspace (our software tool) is critical, tracking which tasks or meetings need immediate attention ensures you focus on what matters most. If I ever feel overwhelmed or realize I won’t finish everything in time, I reach out to my team for help. Everyone at Headroom is incredibly supportive, and collaboration is key!
Collaboration is key in any workplace. How do you maintain strong relationships with colleagues, especially while working remotely?
Whenever possible, I plan a day to go into the office and connect with colleagues in person. If I’m working from abroad, I schedule regular virtual coffee chats. Midweek is a great time for this, like a little break on a Wednesday. Adding these moments to your calendar ensures they happen consistently and keeps you connected to the team.
Where do you see Headroom in 10 years?
I imagine a close-knit group of colleagues, both women and men, who always support one another and have fun together, whether in person or online. Looking ahead, I think it would be interesting for us to find a unique niche in this era of AI. With so many AI tools emerging, having something distinct that sets us apart could really help us thrive and grow.