“Admin Assistants are in a unique position to be polymaths – they know about so many different aspects of their work environment and are seen as a go-to for problem-solving.

The more they are able to effectively troubleshoot, the more valuable they become in their position because they keep everything moving smoothly.”

By listening to language and tone, one can determine which actions to take. Each step of the way with polite communication, the potential of handling the situation to best results for the caller and manager increases.

Anticipate the solution before the problem even becomes a problem.

Because in addition to the bigger, more strategic responsibilities, rote tasks like filing or scheduling still often fall to Admins. Being able to get these done quickly/simultaneously – is a major advantage.

Admin needs to spring to action, clearing own schedule while effectively communicating with all affected parties

i. Helps reduce stress

ii. Stops important work from “falling through the cracks” both literally and figuratively.

In practice, this means focusing on personal and professional development, and viewing one’s main responsibility to be to support the success of one’s team.

Able to creatively solve problems, & are able to ask the right questions early on in order to prevent any gaps in projects or unexpected challenges.

Socializing with coworkers. Socializing releases oxytocin, which reduces susceptibility to stress.

Asking for advice. Sometimes, a different perspective is all we need to get through rough times.

Focusing on mindset. People can control only the lens through which they see the world, but they can alter their viewpoints from negative to positive with a simple change of perspective.

At smaller companies, the Admin might actually be the defacto tech guy/gal.

Making a list of frequently used tech -> identifying which tools least comfortable with.

Recommend blocking off an hour each day to experiment with different tech, get to know the systems, and browse the tools’ Help and Community pages.

Can serve as a sounding board for new ideas, suggest new processes, or even weigh-in on hiring decisions.

Quality control when it comes to details is a big asset for any Admin.

Transform a to-do list into a list of invaluable accomplishments

Diving right into a few critical tasks and tabling trivial ones keeps priority workflow moving while reducing the stress of trying to get everything done.