shirley.haworth
Newbie
Posts: 22
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« on: February 03, 2009, 08:22:47 pm » |
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have somehow manged to land myself dream PA job, except iI fear Ive made myself sound better in my application and interview than I actually am. And now Im struggling horribly, the guy Im PA to (at Director level) lovely well respected guy and I feel like he genuinely deserves a better PA. For all the will in the world and enthusiasm cant hide the fact that Im a forgetful, two finger typer with only a basic knowledge of Outlook. Its full on diary management and I struggle so much..
How can I continue to fake it when every day Im faced with soo many challenges.
Its not a confidence thing, its a reality check. Being a PA at Director level is a big step up for me, salary wise but I dont feel ready for it.. : (
Keep on truckin...
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gee4
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« Reply #1 on: February 03, 2009, 09:00:49 pm » |
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Wanna swap?
Relax, everyone feels like this when they start a new job. Don't focus on the negative, think postively and what you can learn. This a new challenge that anyone would want and with the current climate there is little choice of jobs out there.
I for one would just take each day and task as it comes. You face a challenge and new opportunities when you take on a new role otherwise you become stale and rusty.
This is a great opportunity so if you keep making out you are struggling it will begin to show. All jobs have a probationery period so a review will take place no doubt after a few months.
I would give anything to be back in a job where I am busy and challenged.
At this level a lot of common sense is required so don't think there are things you can't learn or are not able to tackle. It's also a learning curve and 2-way street - you are getting to know your boss and he is getting to know you.
Be patient.
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misslynn
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« Reply #2 on: February 03, 2009, 09:00:50 pm » |
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I don't think it's a matter of faking it. You have two options: work on your skills to get yourself to that level or decide that it's not the right job for you. You can learn to type faster (even with only 2 fingers), you can learn the more advanced functions of Outlook and other Microsoft programs, it's truly within your control. You're feeling overwhelmed right now, just take a step back and decide which road you want to go down. It's entirely up to you.
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shirley.haworth
Newbie
Posts: 22
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« Reply #3 on: February 03, 2009, 09:23:24 pm » |
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I think thats it, Im just overwhelmed. I am very efficent really, Im just not a trained secretary so I struggle with the speed and typing long documents/minutes takes me ages. Will try not to show my fear.
Keep on truckin...
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gee4
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« Reply #4 on: February 03, 2009, 09:27:19 pm » |
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Count yourself lucky you got the job then. I am a trained PA and I'm still looking for a challenge!
Why not get some in-house training or if that's not available sign up for some night classes and get the skills that are going to help you do your job.
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peaches2160
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« Reply #5 on: February 04, 2009, 01:53:28 am » |
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Starting a new job for a new boss is a tough situation. I was there two years ago but did not let it bring me down. It takes at least 6 mos.to really make it our own and learn how to work with someone. My boss and I are a team now and work in sync, almost finishing each others sentences at times. I read several good books on partnering with your boss and the new administrative assistant expectations. I am glad I did. Just take some courses and learn something new every day. With established goals to work towards on improving your skills and time, you will shine. Very important to establish good communication with your boss and meet weekly to touch base and review the top priorities on the table. Also, found alot of great articles and advice here at Deskdemon. Good Luck!
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happyclappy
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« Reply #6 on: February 04, 2009, 11:23:09 am » |
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If you landed the job and didn't lie on your CV then you are definitely ready for it. If your conscience is not absolutely clear then it should be a lesson to you not to do that again (forgive me, but there are times when the unvarnished truth needs to be said). "Stepping up" to a higher-level job isn't just about qualifications NOW but also potential and clearly your company saw that potential in you. This is not about faking it but do the bits you can do easily and learning FAST about the bits you can't.
So how to proceed:
Forgetfulness: make lists in a workbook (Outlook task list is fine, but you will find a workbook easier for now)
Typing: I have a new assistant who could not type to save her life so I have put her on a touch-typing course. If you landed the job through an agency, ask them because most agencies have upskilling courses. Otherwise enroll with your local college on basic secretarial course or check out the BBC website which has a typing course. It's for kids (lots of cartoons and moving things) but will teach you the basics.
Diary management: ask your boss for pointers.
If your boss is really lovely then he is your best ally, so enlist his help and ask for courses. My last boss was a pussy-cat and really helped me out of a hole when I started work with him. I was a returner-to-work after bringing up a family. I decided to go back to university and finish my law studies and at the same time work in various fields. It's a struggle, and I've had to wing it more than once in my work. I'm lucky that my family is very supportive, but if I can do it so can you.
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mashley
Newbie
Posts: 22
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« Reply #7 on: February 04, 2009, 03:53:30 pm » |
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I cannot type fast. After years of courses, I finally realized it's due to ADD. So I came up with shortcuts- if there's a standard type of letter- make a template to use. I always format as I go along, so I may take longer to produce a letter or document, but it's ready to go out, normally no editing needed when I'm done. I also use a notebook- a physical reminder I can carry around to jot down notes.
I remember being overwhelmed in a job, leaving a message for the senior paralegal I reported to, telling her I was not up to the tasks, it wasn't fair to the company to have to wait for me to learn. She called me back, said I was crazy, if the company, and more importantly, if she didn't believe I had the skills, I wouldn't have the job.
Take a deep breath, make your to do list, and work your way down.
Good luck!
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itsme_calista
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« Reply #8 on: February 10, 2009, 11:20:29 am » |
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One of my first posts on Deskdemon was a panic that I had bitten off more than I could chew when I started this job! I was offered some excellent advice, and time did indeed help with the confidence. I've had a change of boss since and the role has changed, I now feel that I'm seriously over-employed for this position. Funny how things change in 2½ years  C |
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