Across the U.S., 22 million administrative professionals serve as the loyal, devoted backbone of business.
We thrive on being able to train and work with these hard workers. Why? Because admins create the tone for the companies they represent.
ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS – A HISTORY
During WWII, the National Secretaries Association forms. The ambitious organization recognizes the contributions of underappreciated secretaries and receptionists in the workplace.
Today, we recognize administrative professionals as workers who set the tone in the office. Traditionally, they are accountable for the smooth running of day-to-day operations.
A FIRST IMPRESSION
I’ve gone from working as an admin to working with admins.
Now, I develop these vital workers through one-on-one coaching and group training. Needless to say I’ve come to know the dynamics of admins.
They’re the doers who interact. They greet each employee and the business’s customers.
They’re also the first friendly face of the day.
Additionally, they’re the devoted employees who know all of the ins and outs of a company.
If the admins at your office are cheerful, fun, and charismatic, they’ll create a domino effect of positive change in your workplace culture.
ADMINISTRATIVE TRAINING AND JOB REVIEWS
Have you ever found a vet or doctor you really love? Unfortunately, if the front desk representative is less than welcoming, you dread returning.
When an administrative professional is a pill, your office is a pill.
Rather than allowing poor representation, prevent your admins from being a liability. The Seeker Solution? Proper training and regular reviews.
While they struggle with authority, administrators know the decisions made. But, most lack any authority to implement change.
Admins are task oriented. Due to a completely different skill set, they’re typically not people managers. So, a managerial role is not their mindset nor their desire.
DEVELOPING AN ADMINISTRATOR
Most noteworthy, develop an administrator who creates an atmosphere of approval and security. Employees don’t fear ridicule from a well-trained company representative.
Successful administration usually falls under these 3 basic skills; technical, human, and conceptual.
“It is assumed here that an administrator is one who (a) directs the activities of other persons and (b) undertakes the responsibility for achieving certain objectives through these efforts,” Harvard Business Review.
Furthermore, well-trained admins are sensitive to the concerns of staff. That “human skill” we mentioned is vital for effective administration at every level.
OFFICE COORDINATION AND TIME MANAGEMENT
Punctual. Administrators are efficient time managers. Consequently, they meet deadlines.
Productive. Train and support your administrative professional. As a result your office flows without distractions or disruptions.
“They know how to use and maintain office equipment, such as copiers and scanners. Repair orders are placed in a timely manner. Supplies are regularly inventoried and ordered. Typically, this requires knowledge of basic booking to track purchases and stay within the office budget. Invoices are paid and refunds or exchanges processed,” Chron, Nine Skills Needed to Become a Successful Administrative Assistant.
Finally, the connector. The best administrators have strong interpersonal skills. As such, these are the people you want fostering positive connections with your customers. As a result, positive teamwork in the office blooms.
We salute administrative professionals. They’re some of the hardest working people we know!
