Peek into skills arsenal that makes effective PA
Expert gives traits they need as gatekeepers to their bosses’ work lives
director of the Kelly Staffing company.
“A PA, in the truest sense of the word, is the face of her manager and indeed her employer’s brand.
“For this reason, professionalism is a key characteristic of the ultimate personal assistant.
“Discretion is also key if a personal assistant wishes to reach the top of her game,” he says.
“Most PAs have access to a certain amount of confidential information, which is why the ability to avoid any ‘water cooler’ chats, so to speak, is fundamental to the success of any secretary.”
Bentley has the following tips for top personal assistants and secretaries, and for those with aspirations of assisting high-profile employers:
The calm before the storm –
a good personal assistant is unflappable and takes challenging circumstances in their stride.
good communication skills are essential as PAs often have to negotiate for time and resources.
The need to deal with correspondence on their manager’s behalf also means that their written work has to be of the highest standard.
Walk the talk –
Techno savvy –
Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook are all key elements of the personal assistant’s skills set.
PAs need to know their way around a computer and the internet to add value to their managers and their requirements.
It’s also a good idea to keep abreast of technology advancements that make their boss’s office run more efficiently.
Wear many hats
from travel agent one day to budget management the next, an effective personal assistant is flexible and changes hats in an instant.
To the unflappably professional personal assistant who makes multitasking look effortlessly simple, we salute you.
The fact of the matter remains that behind every effective manager, stands a highly accomplished personal assistant.
For career growth in these areas as well as career tips visit www.kelly.co.za and www.facebook.com/KellyRecruitment.
–