Administrative roles, overwhelmingly filled by women (98%), have long been undervalued due to gender biases that associate them with “women’s work.” This perception leads to exclusion from key meetings, limited career progression, lower pay, and restricted access to professional development. Studies show that administrative professionals earn significantly less than their male counterparts, face fewer promotion opportunities, and are often overlooked in strategic decision-making. To change this, we must openly discuss and challenge the biases that devalue administrative work and advocate for the recognition, respect, and opportunities these professionals deserve.
Author: Lucy Brazier OBE
Lucy Brazier, OBE is one of the world’s leading authorities on the administrative profession. Author of ‘The Modern-Day Assistant: Build Your Influence and Boost Your Potential’, she is the CEO of Marcham Publishing, a global force synonymous with world-class conferences and training, including Executive Support LIVE and Modern-Day Assistant, and home of Executive Support Magazine, the gold standard of training in print for administrative professionals. Lucy is passionate about ensuring the Assistant role is truly recognised as a career and not just a job and is dedicated to supporting the development of both senior and aspiring administrative professionals. She has keynoted at almost every major conference for Assistants in the world and has a unique overview of the role and where it is heading. Lucy is also part of our Speaker Bureau. If you are interested in Lucy training your Assistants or speaking at your event, either virtually or in person, please visit executivesupportmagazine.com/speaker-bureau.
Closing the Pay Gap: Why Salary Negotiation Matters for Administrative Professionals
The gender pay gap remains a pressing issue, particularly for administrative professionals. Many women find themselves earning significantly less than their male predecessors in similar roles. One key reason is that women are statistically less likely to negotiate salaries compared to men, leading to long-term financial consequences. Advocating for fair pay and preparing for salary negotiations is essential in closing this gap. Utilizing tools like the Global Skills Matrix can help administrative professionals understand their market value and push for equitable compensation. By fostering open discussions and supporting systemic change, we can work toward more inclusive and fair workplaces.
Unity Over Division: The Power of Collaboration in Revolutionizing the Administrative Profession
The administrative profession is undergoing a major transformation, and now more than ever, it’s crucial for professionals to unite and focus on collaboration, not division. The challenges we face, from disruptive changes brought on by the pandemic to the ongoing fight for respect and recognition, require us to work together as one voice. The infighting, toxicity, and jealousy that sometimes plague the profession only serve to hold us back. By supporting one another, sharing knowledge, and embracing unity, we can redefine the role of administrative professionals and ensure it is recognized as an essential, strategic part of any organization.
Rebranding the Administrative Profession: Unlocking Its True Potential and Value in the Modern Workplace
The administrative profession is at a pivotal moment, with a need to redefine its value and importance in today’s business landscape. For too long, administrative roles have been underestimated, viewed as secondary or temporary positions rather than dynamic, strategic careers. It’s time to shift this narrative by recognizing the skills, expertise, and critical contributions of administrative professionals. This shift requires not only a change in perception but also investment in professional development and outreach to future generations. It’s time to celebrate and elevate administrative careers as essential to business success.
Elevate Your Career: Shift from ‘Support’ to Strategic Business Partner by Changing Your Mindset
To be treated as a business professional rather than ‘just support,’ you must first change how you show up every day. Your mindset, actions, and presence influence how others perceive and respect you. Instead of reacting to problems, proactively contribute to the larger goals of the business. Embrace a strategic mindset, speak up in meetings, and align your decisions with company objectives. Stop waiting for recognition—show your value and elevate your role by going beyond expectations. When you embody the business person you aspire to be, others will start to treat you accordingly.
Breaking Free from Outdated Perceptions: Why the Title ‘Assistant’ is Holding Back Talented Professionals
In a viral post that has captured the attention of over half a million people, Candice Burningham sheds light on the outdated and demeaning perceptions surrounding the title of ‘Assistant.’ As the role evolves, many professionals are still shackled to a status that treats them as subordinates rather than strategic business partners. Burningham highlights a glaring issue: while assistants provide critical business support, their titles and roles continue to be undervalued, often relegated to menial tasks or seen as a mere status symbol. It’s time to dismantle these archaic views and elevate the role to reflect the true business value Assistants bring to the table—strategic thinking, operational leadership, and high-impact decision-making.
The Future of the Administrative Profession Is in Your Hands—Are You Ready?
A decade ago, I set out on a mission to transform the administrative profession—one that could impact the working lives of half a billion women. It was daunting, but with the help of passionate voices, we’ve made real progress. Now, at 55, I feel the urgency more than ever. The finish line is in sight, but we need an army to push this change forward. This isn’t just my mission—it’s ours. It’s time to find our voices, challenge outdated perceptions, and advocate for the recognition this profession deserves. Are you ready to help us finish what we started?
Redefining the Role: How Administrative Professionals Can Shift from Reactive to Proactive
While visiting India, I discovered a role that commands deep respect in many companies—the Learning and Culture Secretary (LCS). These professionals play a crucial part in onboarding, training, and integrating new employees, ensuring a seamless transition into the workplace. Their proactive approach made me reflect on how administrative professionals are often perceived as reactive rather than strategic. In reality, our role involves foresight, planning, and enabling organisational success. How can we shift this perception and showcase our true impact? Tomorrow, I’ll share 10 ways to help redefine our profession’s value.
Earn the Right to Expand Your Role: Master the Basics, Then Prove Your Value
When looking to expand your role, trust is the key factor. During a recent discussion with a CEO and his Executive Assistant, the CEO expressed frustration over assistants trying to redefine their roles too soon. But the real issue isn’t ambition—it’s timing. If you master the tasks you were hired to do first and then demonstrate clear value in taking on more, no manager will object. The key is to frame your contributions around the benefits to the business, not just your own growth. Show measurable impact, and opportunities will follow.
Redefining the Role: 10 Ways Administrative Professionals Can Drive Change and Elevate Their Impact
As an administrative professional, you have the power to redefine your role and showcase your value within your organisation. From embracing AI and leading strategic initiatives to mentoring others and advocating for role evolution, this article explores ten actionable ways to elevate your impact. Start with one step, and be a catalyst for change in your profession.
