Lisa Larson

Everyone plays a vital role in the bigger picture—there is no such thing as ‘just’ a cleaner, ‘just’ an assistant, or ‘just’ anything. Carmina, my 68-year-old cleaner, understands that her work allows others to thrive. Her wisdom is a reminder that no matter the job title, every contribution matters in making life and business run smoothly.

Many assistants don’t see themselves as leaders, but to become an administrative business partner, you must embrace influence and proactivity. Leading up is not about overstepping—it’s about enabling your manager to focus on what they do best. By shifting your mindset and taking initiative, you don’t just support—you lead, drive efficiency, and contribute to the success of the entire organisation.

Administration is one of the few careers where a woman can start at the bottom and grow into a successful profession. Yet, many companies overlook entry-level administrative roles. By committing to hiring Level One assistants from disadvantaged backgrounds, businesses can provide life-changing opportunities while fostering a more inclusive workforce. Could your organisation be part of this movement?