No code automation = having a process done automatically for you, without knowing how to code

• This is fantastic as it means you can set repetitive tasks to run in the background, and minimise data entry and app switching — maximizing your efficiency

• Cortney gave an overview of how to use Zapier to automate pushing data between different work tools you’re using

• A great hack: ChatGPT is well trained on how Zapier works, so you can simply tell it which work tools you use (e.g. Slack, Notion, Gmail), and ask what tasks you could automate. It’s a quick and easy way to generate tailored Zapier ideas without needing to know where to start.

• She shared some specific ways to use Zapier that are most valuable for EAs:

  • Common initial blockers:

    • Time investment concerns

    • Uncertainty about where to begin

    • Fear of automations "going off the rails"

  • Recommended first steps:

    • Start with email/message triage automation

    • Focus on repetitive tasks that follow "when X happens, do Y" pattern

    • Use AI-powered "What would you like to automate?" box for guidance

    • Progress over perfection approach - start basic, enhance over time

  • Practical use cases for EAs:

    • Calendar management: cross-posting between work/personal calendars; automated meeting prep summaries; text message reminder for critical meetings

    • Email management: customer email summaries sent to Slack; draft reply generation using AI; priority message alerts

    • Team coordination: milestone tracking and gift automation; event signup automation via emoji reactions; automated meeting recording distribution

    • Progress over perfection approach - start basic, enhance over time