Experienced PAs say they’ve had to take on new responsibilities since the recession...and like it!
Reed Learning looks at the results of their recent survery on what PAs & Secretaries think of their job in this ever-changing economy.
Reed Learning recently carried out a survey to find out if PAs, Secretaries and Administrators think their roles have changed during the recession.
Over 290 people responded to the survey, the majority of them with over five years experience in their role. A significant 65% of them said that their company had made cut-backs on staff during the recession, particularly in areas such as Administration and Office Management. As a result, many feel they have had to take on new responsibilities:
“I have been a PA/Secretary for the last 30 years but the last few have been very challenging, with far more pressure on our role’’
These changes have seen PAs taking on more responsibility for more specialist tasks including finance and HR. But rather than finding this daunting, the people we surveyed are rising to the challenge. Over 90% of the respondents said that they enjoyed taking on these new responsibilities, which provide variety, reward and opportunities for advancement - over 60% have taken part in formal training to gain the skills they need to take on new responsibilities.
Comments included:
“Although I am the PA, my role has always been varied, so really I am Office Manager, PA, Receptionist, Accounts, all rolled into one. What is concerning is when will it end – until I say no to the work I guess!’’
“I would say that in the last 10 years the role of the PA has changed dramatically. It’s not only about the preparation of documents and diaries anymore. It involves challenges similar to those of a project manager. I enjoy the way it has evolved and as such I’m lucky to have such a forward-thinking boss, I am aware that he appreciates my involvement, which makes this a more enjoyable role.”
Reed Learning understands the evolving role of PAs and administrators. That’s why we offer a range of specialist PA and administrator-focused training on core business functions such as Project Management for the PA, Marketing for the PA and HR for the PA. We also offer a range of nationally-recognised modular qualifications in partnership with theInstitute of Administrative Management, allowing PAs to get qualified in a way tailored to the unique demands of their individual role. You can read more about Reed Learning's innovative PA programmes here: www.reedlearning.co.uk/PA.
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