[onedufulife]

I am currently working as an Administrative Assistant and have been doing so for exactly 2yrs 7 mos. My desire is to go to the next level--becoming an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant. I am a member of IAAP and am in the process of sitting for the CPS exam in May. Do you suggest I stay longer in my current role to get more experience (time in my current role) or do I have enough to seek a job at the next level? Thanks!

[leorie]

Originally Posted by onedufulife

I am currently working as an Administrative Assistant and have been doing so for exactly 2yrs 7 mos. My desire is to go to the next level--becoming an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant. I am a member of IAAP and am in the process of sitting for the CPS exam in May. Do you suggest I stay longer in my current role to get more experience (time in my current role) or do I have enough to seek a job at the next level? Thanks!

I spent 6 years of my career as an executive assistant (2002-2008). It's not the time in your current role necessarily that will help you move on, it's the value that you can show you have to the organization.

If you are not already, you should get involved in projects as much as possible. Get some exposure and show people what you are capable of handling. For example, if your company has diversity or volunteer networks, raise your hand to coordinate events. Try to become the "go to" person for those around you - offer your assistance just because it will help others, not because it will show your importance. People will notice.

If you choose to look for exec asst roles outside of your organization, it will be great to have on your resume your wider impact, and not just what you accomplished in your current admin role.

Good luck!

[LisaOlsen]

Great tips! There are several areas that the successful high level EAs excel at:
1. Critical thinking and problem solving - when they see a problem or situation, they deal with it using problem solving skills. If they bring an issue to their boss, they have some solutions, too.
2. Project management skills - today's assistants must fill the role of the middle manager. If you can see a project through (small or large) from beginning to end, coordinating a team, assigning tasks, coordinating meetings, tracking the timelines, etc., that will set you apart. As mentioned above, start where you are and take on a small project. Try not to be so much 'task' oriented but more 'big picture' oriented.
3. Diplomacy - This is an important high level EA skill that isn't talked about much, but I consider a top skill and it can be practiced. It's about knowing what to say and when - conducting yourself confidently and using effective communication skills. It's about awareness and being observant.

If you choose to stay in your current role, you can still practice these skills. I would suggest you go on some interviews for higher level positions. It will give you some great insight into what they are looking for.

Finally, never underestimate your skills as an administrative professional. If you think you can step up to the next level, you can! Don't let anything or anyone hold you back. SEE yourself doing it, and opportunities will come to you!

All the best,

[onedufulife]

Thank you so very much! I actually have worked on two projects that were company wide. Both were in 2008, One was for the March of Dimes (as a Team Lead) and another for United Way (as a Coordinator Leader of 42 Departmental Coordinators). Both were great successes...actually the United Way was very broad since I had never lead that many people before. My boss received very positive feedback about my leadership. Your responses have helped me to know that I am on the right path!