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How To Become An Exceptional PA – 10 Top Tips

Have you ever wondered what makes the difference between a good PA and an exceptional one? Well, we have compiled a list of some the key ingredients that help to make a truly exceptional PA

UNDERSTAND THE NEEDS OF YOUR EMPLOYER

Your employer will like to have things done in a certain way and before you can become the right arm, you will need to assess and understand what ‘that way’ looks like! Pay close attention to the needs of your employer to establish their likes, dislikes and take note of all of those little details that will help you to fit seamlessly into your new role.

DEVELOP EXCELLENT INTERPERSONAL & COMMUNICATION SKILLS

As a PA, you will frequently act as the first point of contact on behalf of your employer. Excellent communication skills and a likeable, yet professional manner will take you a long way, we all know the importance of first impressions!

As well as being able to communicate clearly with others from all walks of life, you must also perfect the art of negotiation until it becomes second nature to you.

WRITE IT DOWN!

Taking notes helps you to ensure that you never forget things. Missing one thing in a sea of many is all too easy, but once you have written it down, you have a reminder to jog your memory later on. Whether you use pen and paper or a screen makes no difference at all, just develop a system that works well for you.

Even if you have an excellent memory and rarely forget things this is one habit that as a PA you need to form. That one small thing you forget, (because we are all human), could create unnecessary stress for you and make you appear unprofessional.

ORGANISATION AND TIME MANAGEMENT

In addition to being an efficient note taker, general time management and organisational skills are truly non-negotiable in the role of PA. Managing busy diaries and appointments, meeting deadlines and following up on all delegated actions without fail takes an organised individual with well-polished, efficient systems in place.

ACTION THE SMALL DETAILS IMMEDIATELY

The best way to avoid never ending to do lists is to action as many of the smaller details as you can immediately. All of those tasks that can be done in a matter of a few minutes are best taken care of without any delay, so strike while the iron is hot! You can then move onto the more time consuming tasks and not have to worry about cramming any extra ones at the end.

CALM AND COLLECTED

As a PA, you are likely to be working under pressure at times, so it is essential that you are never, ever seen to flap. Remaining calm and collected at all times is vital, to be an exceptional PA, you must be able to think clearly and make immediate decisions no matter what the situation.

BROAD RANGING IT SKILLS

As a PA you will be expected to have up to date IT skills so that you are highly efficient in an office environment. Keep an eye on the ball and make sure you are proficient with all of the technology you are likely to be using within your role.

TROUBLE SHOOTER

The best PA’s are confident and knowledgeable, consistently able to find solutions to any issues that arise. A PA who has the ability to approach challenges head on and come up with well-considered solutions will quickly become a valuable asset to their employer.

PROFESSIONALISM

As a PA you will be privy to all kinds of personal and confidential information and your discretion and professionalism at all times is crucial. Your employer must have 100% confidence in your honesty and integrity.

PUT YOUR HANDS UP!

Nobody gets it right all of the time so when you get it wrong, (and you will), be the first to put your hands up and confess. Your employer will respect your honesty and trust you all the more for this. Trust is a crucial element of any professional relationship. Own your mistake, voice your apology and if possible put it right as soon as possible!

 

Being a Personal Assistant is a wonderful career that gives you the opportunity to work with fascinating people in dynamic environments. Perfecting the areas discussed above will help you to become an exceptional PA and an invaluable asset to any prospective employer.

 

 

October 10, 2014

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