Even in the world of personal and executive assistants there exists that all important professional ladder that we’re all constantly told to keep climbing. Despite the fact that many of us will work in environments where we’re surrounded by people who are all but consumed by the desire to ascend, ascend, ascend, it’s also important to remember that there’s nothing wrong in wanting to further yourself in your chosen career.
If you’re looking for some advice on how to move up in your own career ladder to a more senior PA role, here’s some advice on how to get there.
Who’s That Girl?
Make sure that colleagues and execs at your place of work all know who you are – a friendly and personable approach at all times can go a long way. But, more to the point, you don’t want them to know you as just “another PA” or even as your boss’ assistant – Make sure they know you for you, and that they see you as the competent and reliable assistant that you want to be known as.
And remember, with every meeting that you arrange you have the opportunity to prove yourself as the PA that every high-level exec wishes they had. Embrace these opportunities, especially as they could be the ones to offer you your career ascending opportunity.
Go The Extra Mile.
Your role may already be diverse and varied – such is the beauty of the EA and PA profession. But that’s not to mean you should rest on your laurels. Use your unique position of exposure to such a wide variety of high-level company employees to push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Ask if there’s any more that you could do, specifically in areas that interest you.
Anticipate and Stay One Step Ahead.
Always do your best to stay one step ahead. Whether it’s making a coffee or booking a restaurant, knowing what to do before you’re told is a quality that will make you stand out. Keep notes to help you remember those all important details that will make a potential future poacher take note.
Work the Network.
Whether it’s within your own company or as part of a larger professional network, you will be meeting professionals of all levels on a regular and almost daily basis. Be sure to make the most of every encounter: engage, ask question and always keep an eye out for those all-important opportunities to shine. Keep track of everyone that you meet by exchanging business cards, sending thank you or confirmation emails and connecting with them via LinkedIn.
Keep your eye on the goal.
Even though you may not be in a hurry to make any changes, it’s important to always keep your eye on the goal: career development. As such, do your best to see and understand both your company and the industry on a much larger scale – knowing about their inner workings, who’s who and what the forecasts are will all help to show yourself off as a competent professional, as well as giving you the vantage point of jumping on any key opportunities, and potential future career paths, when they present themselves.
Moving On.
It’s important to use every day to further your career whether or not you are thinking about your next step. Embrace each and every opportunity to grow, develop and learn. But if you are at the point where you are ready for the next phase in your career and feel it’s time to take an all important step up on the ladder, moving to a new company can provide the perfect opportunity to ascend. But remember, sell yourself as someone who already is at that higher level, having out grown your current role and ready to take on the next big career challenge.
