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.
Category: Culture & Events
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.
Breaking Free from Outdated Perceptions: Why the Title ‘Assistant’ is Holding Back Talented Professionals
In a viral post that has captured the attention of over half a million people, Candice Burningham sheds light on the outdated and demeaning perceptions surrounding the title of ‘Assistant.’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.
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.
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.
Why Industry-Specific Experience Isn’t What Makes a Great EA
Many job postings for administrative professionals demand industry-specific experience, overlooking the unique, transferable skills that make EAs indispensable. Great executive assistants excel through communication, organization, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking—qualities that transcend sectors. An EA with diverse industry experience brings fresh perspectives, adaptability, and innovative problem-solving to the table, proving that the true value of this profession lies in its versatility, not its industry ties.