From “read minds” to “make coffee with a PhD,” job ads for administrative professionals often try to be witty—but these seemingly humorous phrases can trivialize the role, reinforce outdated stereotypes, and undermine the value assistants bring to the workplace.
Tag: Executive Assistants
Breaking the Silence: How Administrative Professionals Can Lead the Way on Menopause Awareness
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With a workforce that’s 98% female, it’s crucial for administrative professionals to champion menopause awareness in the workplace. From education and advocacy to shaping supportive policies, they can create a more inclusive and understanding environment for everyone.
The Self-Advocacy Paradox: Why Trusted Assistants Must Also Trust Themselves
Assistants are among the most trusted professionals in any organization—yet often hesitate to advocate for themselves. By embracing self-advocacy, assistants can unlock greater career growth, personal development, and even more impactful contributions to their teams.
Being an Assistant Is a Career—Not Just a Job
Many assistants have faced the question: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” For most, this isn’t just a stepping stone—it’s a career of choice. The role of an assistant requires exceptional skill, discretion, and emotional intelligence. Whether you’re an administrative or executive assistant, your work is critical to business success. It’s time to shift the narrative and recognize the assistant profession for what it truly is—a strategic and valued career path.
From Support to Strategic Partner: Embracing the ‘Us’ Mindset
Want to be seen as an administrative business partner instead of just ‘support’? Shift your mindset from ‘Them and I’ to ‘Us and We.’ Successful organizations recognize that EAs are crucial partners in achieving business objectives. By working with your executive rather than for them, you build trust, enhance communication, and contribute strategically. The result? Greater impact, professional growth, and a stronger, more respected partnership.
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.
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.
“Elevating the Role of Executive Assistants: How Effective Documentation Drives Strategic Impact”
Effective documentation is a vital skill for administrative professionals, especially senior assistants who play a key role in knowledge management. Far from just record-keeping, well-organized documentation serves as a framework for strategic insight, ensuring continuity, proactive decision-making, and enhanced support. It positions assistants as accountable, forward-thinking contributors who add measurable value to the organization. In fast-paced environments, thorough documentation can be a stabilizing force, fostering long-term success for both the assistant and the company.
Bridging the Gap: An Open Letter to Microsoft Teams on Empowering Administrative Professionals
Microsoft Teams has revolutionized workplace communication, but has it overlooked the needs of administrative professionals? In this open letter, Lucy Brazier OBE highlights the challenges Executive Assistants face due to limited visibility in Teams conversations and urges Microsoft to bridge this gap, enabling seamless collaboration and productivity for executives and their support teams.
The Evolving EA: Why Goal-Setting Is Essential for Success in 2025
As the administrative profession evolves, goal-setting is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Discover how setting clear objectives can empower executive assistants to adapt to changing demands, embrace strategic thinking, and thrive in 2025 and beyond.