In a viral post that has captured the attention of over half a million people, Candice Burningham sheds light on the outdated and demeaning perceptions surrounding the title of ‘Assistant.’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.
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.
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 It’s time to find our voices, challenge outdated perceptions, and advocate for the recognition this profession deserves.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.
Tech-Savvy and on the Rise: How AI Skills Are Fast-Tracking Career Growth
Embracing the latest technology, particularly AI, is no longer just a workplace advantage—it’s a career accelerator. A new Microsoft and LinkedIn report reveals that employees who adopt AI and digital tools are significantly more likely to earn promotions. With 82% of business leaders recognizing the value of AI in enhancing performance and decision-making, mastering these tools positions professionals as indispensable assets. For administrative roles and beyond, staying ahead in the digital landscape isn’t just about efficiency—it’s a direct path to leadership and career growth.
Stepping Beyond Comfort: How Taking Risks Elevates Administrative Professionals
Growth and resilience for administrative professionals often lie just beyond the comfort zone. It’s easy to stick to familiar tasks, but real progress comes when we embrace the unfamiliar. Jo Sedgwick, a PA who had never hosted a webinar, exemplified this by stepping up to celebrate the first anniversary of my book launch. By reaching out, taking the initiative, and pushing past her fears, Jo not only created a new opportunity for herself but also showcased the true potential of proactive, strategic talent in administration. Her story reminds us: the greatest opportunities often lie in the open waters, not the safety of the shore.
Optimizing Executive Support: Aligning Assistant Skill Levels for Maximum Productivity
Many organisations fail to align the skill levels of administrative professionals with the needs of their executives, leading to inefficiencies and missed opportunities. The Global Skills Matrix highlights the importance of strategic Level 4 assistants for C-suite executives—business partners who provide high-level support, project management, and decision-making insight. By structuring support teams to pair Level 4 assistants with executives, Level 3 assistants with senior management, and Level 2 assistants for broader operational tasks, businesses can drive productivity, streamline operations, and unlock their full potential. It’s time to match the right talent with the right role.
Who Should Assistants Report To? Exploring the Executive vs. Head of Admin Debate
Should an assistant report directly to their executive or to a head of admin? This decision shapes the assistant’s role, development, and the value they bring to the organisation. Direct reporting fosters a close, strategic partnership with the executive, while reporting to a head of admin provides structure, support, and growth opportunities within an administrative team. Many organisations find success with a hybrid approach, blending the strengths of both models to empower assistants and maximise their impact.
Unlocking Executive Excellence: How Delegating to Your Assistant Can Multiply Your Impact
Learning to delegate effectively is a critical skill for executives, yet many struggle to utilize their assistants to their full potential. By trusting your assistant with tasks that distract from strategic priorities, you can free up valuable time, increase productivity by up to 25%, and focus on what truly matters—driving innovation and achieving success.
