Minute Taking Guidance

Minutes serve as legal binding documents in many situations and in many organizations and can be produced as evidence of certain discussions and decisions when there are legal challenges in the future. A common job duty of administrative and EAs is to be able to take effective meeting minutes. Whether you are taking minutes at a team meeting or a meeting of the Board of Directors, the skills are pretty much the same.   The following is a guide for making this task easier:    Before the meeting.  Choose your tool: Decide how you will take notes, i.e. pen and paper, ...

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Business Etiquette – Common Mistakes

One of the biggest mistakes you can make in your career is not understanding that there are certain codes and rules to abide by in the workplace. If you’re not careful, you may even lose opportunities because others are put off by your lack of professionalism.      Don’t Listen to Your Music Player in the Elevator. and don’t check your e-mail messages. “Wearing earplugs is like putting a Do Not Disturb sign on you”. It sends a message to colleagues that you want to be left alone, an unfriendly gesture at best. Elevators and hallways are prime spots for friendly, ...

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Office Wear Essentials

Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways to stay sensible yet stylish at the office. Getting dressed for the office doesn’t mean leaving your personal style behind. Find out which looks give you a polished, professional look and which fashions can be a career killer.     Below are some must-have items for a completely polished, professional wardrobe Build a strong set of timeless staples
. Focus on fit and quality
. Learn to maximize your wardrobe through smart outfit combinations instead of relying solely on statement pieces.    Invest in the Classics. Save money on items that you’ll wear infrequently, and invest ...

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Making Travel Arrangements for Executives

If you work as a PA, at some point you’ll likely make travel arrangements for one or more executives. Making travel arrangements for your boss can sometimes be stressful. It is important to ask the right questions to get them where they want to go.   The details below are  tips and questions to scheduling travel arrangements for your boss.   Questions you can ask and tips to remember     Find out your boss’s preferences. Make certain the executive’s travel documents are up-to-date. Some international destinations also require visas for entry into the country. Check the itinerary carefully.  Make sure that ...

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Etiquette Dilemmas of Traveling With Your Boss

Being invited on a business trip with your boss is a great opportunity. This can be an opportunity to improve your position in the company. There are two things to do when traveling with your boss:    You may want to show to your boss that you are an expert in a particular field.     The most important rule to keep in mind is:     Repeat this mantra to yourself over the course of the trip. Everything that applies in the office applies on the road.   Here is some useful advice:    Flesh out your itinerary. You are likely ...

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