Workplace Issues
The ever-expanding administrative roleWith Administrative Professionals Week (APW) around the corner (April 20-26), executives will be thanking their "right-hand" person. This year they may have more reasons to thank them, a new survey shows. Nearly three-quarters (72%) of managers polled said responsibilities for support professionals have increased in the last five years. Fifty-five per cent of executives also said administrative staff have greater career options than five years ago. SUN MEDIA WIRE SERVICES |
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The survey was developed by OfficeTeam, a leading staffing service specializing in the placement of highly skilled administrative professionals and was conducted by an independent research firm.
"Efficiencies created by technological advancements have allowed administrative assistants to take on a wider range of tasks, including managing budgets, negotiating vendor contracts, overseeing projects and maintaining websites," says Dave Willmer, executive director of OfficeTeam.
"Administrative assistants can achieve seniority within their role or profession, or leverage their specialized skill sets to obtain supervisory positions in administration, human resources or other departments," he says.
"Administrative Professionals Week is an ideal time for managers to discuss the career opportunities available to their assistants."
OfficeTeam offers the following ideas for recognizing support staff during APW:
- Give thanks. Express gratitude for your assistant's contributions and achievements in person or with a handwritten note.
- Do lunch. In addition to thanking your assistant, take time to discuss his or her professional goals and potential career paths.
- Host a party. Plan a companywide event to recognize all administrative staff.
- Encourage networking opportunities. Offer to pay for your assistant's membership in relevant trade and professional associations.
- Provide ongoing educational opportunities. Encourage and, if feasible, pay for your administrative personnel to attend professional development seminars and conferences. Support your staff in pursuing industry certifications and relevant coursework.
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