Hi all:

I'd like to give a bit of background before I pose my question.  I'm an administrative assistant for a global benefits consulting firm.  I love the company and I love the people I work with.  Been there for 2 years. However, I can't seem to find a level of contentment with my job.  75%+ of the time, I'm thinking about where this job is going to take me.  In other words, I don't think I want to be an administrative assistant for the span of my career. And I guess it really has nothing to do with the company or the work, but more about what I want or where I see myself.

With that said, I'd like to take an informal poll from the board's population. How many of you are happy in an administrative role? Its funny, but there are times when I feel content and can envision doing so much. Then, there are other times when I feel like "heck, I don't wanna be an AA for the rest of my life."

Question:  How many of you love what you do and aren't pursing any other career. On the flip side, how many of you view your role as a "stepping stone" to the job/career you want.

Thanks to all for your responses.

I'm new, too and I love what I've seen thus far!



 

I've only ever really heard of IAAP, as an "official" organization for administrative professionals (more specifically for North America). Two of you mentioned "other" organizations. Can you tell me where I might find more information about these?



I've searched the internet, but generally IAAP is the only org. that I find. Can someone point me in the right direction?



Much obliged.  

One of the consultants I support refers to me as "The Queen." I rather like that moniker. She's also been known to call me "Quick Draw" because she says that whenever she needs something, I've done it practically before she's had a chance to ask.



Generally speaking, most folks just use my name when referring to me. When a title is necessary for distinguishing my role on one of our project teams, or when introduced to a client, I'm either "my assistant" or "AA."



Regarding title distinction between secretary or "administrative _______" I have to say that I, too, would prefer not to be called "secretary." Not that there's anything wrong with that role, but I do feel that a secretary's job responsibilities differ from mine. I think that as an administrative assistant there is a less defined boundary between my role and others within my practice.  Where I work, that equates to more room for growth.



That's just my $.02.

Deedeeb:



Why in heaven's name are you still there?  Not only do they not compensate you accordingly but it sounds like they don't even respect you or what you do?



Pardon my nosiness, but is there some reason you've remained with this company for 10 lonnnnnnnnnnnnggggg years without a raise, only to be given a measly 1% increase?   Well that was just purely insulting. I know that sometimes we have to do what we have to do, but I firmly believe that we should be duly compensated for the work that we do.



You should have received something if for no other reason than your loyalty!!



Final question...Do you plan on staying?

msgladiator:



Thanks for the follow-up. Didn't mean to jump to any assumptions, but I also didn't like the idea that just from my post I may have been viewed as indecisive or unsure of my capabilities. Let's call it water under the bridge, and thanks for your well wishes. I'll keep everyone posted on the outcome.



Yes, my heart is truly aching with what has happened this morning. It definitely brings things into perspective and makes you look at the big picture. I can't imagine what the family and friends of those affected by this tragedy are going through. Makes my piddly little "dilemma" seem pretty insignificant.



Take care all!

Thanks to everyone for the positive vibes and feedback! This board serves as a wonderful support system. Just an update - I've decided to post for the position!



msgladiator:



Perhaps I misinterpreted your post, but I sensed some condescencion in its tone. Though why you felt the need to express yourself in such a way is beyond me. I can appreciate candor and "being totally up front", when warranted.



I would never presume to ask perfect strangers for their blessings around a career decision. I was merely asking for your professional opinions and experiences. Clearly we process information differently, and your insinuation that because I didn't "JUMP" at the position when first offered means that I should not take it is evidence that no, you DON'T know me. I don't make decisions in a vacuum without carefully evaluating them. I do have a college degree with a minor in business management, and well over 10 years of post-college experience in the workplace, so I'm certain I can do the job. And as I stated in my initial post, I know deep down that I can perform in this role. And after seeing the job description, I'm even more certain. Perhaps had I been in my role (or even with this firm) for many years as you stated you had, I would have been quicker to jump at the offer.



I RESPECTFULLY asked for the opinions of those who have been in similar situations or who have performed in similar roles as an adjunct to my own decision-making process. I never asked to be TOLD that I would be great at the position. And, while the experiences and support of peers and family can be invaluable, I made the decision that was best for me of my own accord.



 

Thanks to everyone who responded. And yes, sometimes we need that extra reassurance that what we want and know in our hearts is a good decision. Needless to say, I've vacillated several times this weekend between taking it or staying in my comfort zone.



But...then I think of all the opportunities a managerial role could afford me, and I think that maybe I'd be foolish to pass it up. So...I haven't officially made a decision yet, but I'll be sure to let you all know how this plays out. I've consulted with myself, my hubby, other family members whose opinions I value, and other professionals. Now, time to consult with the Man upstairs. Only He knows what is truly best for me. Wonder how quickly He'll respond, though!  

I've been watching this board for quite some time now, but never really posted anything. But...I have sort of a career decision to make and could use the opinion of some other professionals.



I'm an administrative assistant with a global consulting firm. Excellent company, fulfilling, challenging job, great group of consultants to work for, the whole nine. Been with the company exactly 10 months to the day. My manager/practice/office manager, who was once an admin herself, is resigning. For personal reasons, nothing to do with the job or the company. Which leaves her position open. She has placed before me the opportunity to take on her role, or at least to put my name in the running. She is really a great manager, has always been very supportive and gives real-time feedback. I'm definitely going to miss her!



That aside, she REALLY wants me to try for this job. She has expressed that she thinks I'll have no problem doing the job and that I'll thrive in the position.



Here's my dilemma...I've never acted in a managerial role before. Never acted as an office manager. She also supports the regional practice leader, which is akin to an executive-level role. Okay, add to that the fact that I've never supported an "executive" before, either. Don't get me wrong, I'm flattered as all heck at the "offer" and deep down know that I can do the job. But...I'm not big on change. And being in my current role less than a year, I sorta feel like I was just getting into the groove of things. So, the change in and of itself makes me nervous. Plus, the fact that I've not been with the company a full year adds some anxiety around whether or not I'll know enough around company policy.



Let's add one other dynamic in with this. One of my cohorts has been an AA for close to 5 years now. But...per my manager, they won't offer the position to her. Mind you, I don't think she would want it even if they offered it to her. But I hate to think of how my taking on this role might affect our working relationship. Essentially, I would become her manager! Sometimes that doesn't play out very well.



So, I would love the opinion and feedback from any and everyone, but particularly those of you who have transitioned from an administrative role into a managerial position. Also, I would like some feedback on the difference between what an administrative assistant does, versus an executive assistant. AND (just one more thing, I promise)...what responsibilities does an office manager have?



Before you ask, I've already requested from her a detailed job description of what she does. Yes, she was my manager, but I certainly didn't see her do everything else that she does. I've not received it yet, so I'm sort of in limbo, and my inquisitive mind wants to know! She would like a decision as to whether or not I want to be considered as a candidate by noon Monday    but is willing to give me more time if I need it.



Thanks to all who have time to respond!