An effective CIO needs a top-notch assistant, but good help can be hard to find--and to keep. Great assistants take pride in anticipating what executives need before they need it, being organized and reliable so that the department runs seamlessly and being just the right mixture of friendly and protective. But they also must be computer-savvy and know many applications; manage technical issues, email and scheduling; create presentations; exhibit the right level of formality with people from all levels of the corporate structure and anticipate the needs of their executives. To find and keep a great assistant, be the kind of boss you'd be excited to have--respectful, appreciative, honest and open. Be specific about the job requirements and working environment. Listen to your instincts. Create a work environment of trust and possibility. And don't take assistants for granted.

Read more about attracting a great executive assistant:
- read the article at CIO