Executive assistant calendar conflict protocol
A decision path for resolving competing executive calendar requests with clear authority.
- Define the executive support outcome
- Match role scope to leadership cadence
- Use a structured selection process
Define the role
Start by identifying the purpose, consequence, required attendees, preparation time, and deadline for each conflict. Calendar order alone is a poor proxy for leadership priority.
Set the operating model
Support can present the conflict and protect known rules, but the executive or named priority owner decides when two commitments cannot coexist. Record the reason for the change so the next request has useful context.
Choose with care
Review recurring conflicts for a system fix. A meeting sequence, stakeholder rule, or preparation block may need redesign instead of another ad hoc reschedule.
Related resources
FAQ
Should one assistant support the whole executive team?
Sometimes. It works when priorities are clear and executives share one operating rhythm.
What should happen before a consult?
List the meetings, inbox rules, recurring reports, and decisions that need support.
Discuss executive support