"We have the wisdom of Solomon, the charm of Aphrodite, the patience of Job, the discretion of a Trappist monk, and the diplomatic skills of an ambassador!"

"We have a Positive Attitude

We Provide Assistance

We're Particularly Approachable

We have the Practical Ability to get things done

We have the Professional Acumen

and Political Astuteness to manage a variety of tasks

We are Pleasantly Appreciative when receiving praise

We Practise Absolute discretion

We are Perfectionists, Always."

"Well we've been multi-tasking for years, before the term was even coined! We can often answer a question before it's been fully asked, and are good at anticipating needs. We're good organisers which means you'll often find PAs at the centre of things in an office - not necessarily connected with work, but anything that needs a bit of organisation, we're in there. And when the PA is self employed, as I am, that organisation skill is called upon like never before, as you juggle all your clients' needs at once!"

"The contribution PAs make to companies is the secrecy that we have to endure, i.e. see nothing, hear nothing, say nothing! If could write a book on all the secrets and confidential information that has passed through my mind over the last 21 years (although I wouldn't do that of course)! To me, that is what makes PAs brilliant!"

PAs are so brilliant because they are like diamonds. They are multi-faceted and the 4c's of diamonds can be interpreted to match their qualities

• Cut Design: Systems, Policies, Procedures, Office layouts
• Clarity: Precision, Influence
• Colour: Adds a vivid element
• Carat: Unit of weight for something precious

And there you have it - the brilliant PA !

PAs are brilliant because they:

• Always put others first
• Are flexible and adaptable
• Possess a wealth of knowledge
• Are always eager to learn new things
• Are loyal
• Enjoy networking
• Are prepared to devote personal time to business events - often at very unsociable hours.

"PAs are brilliant because they have such a wealth of skills, and multi-tasking is their middle name. Just think of all the different hats they wear - IT expert, diplomat, project manager, researcher, to name just a few. Fortunately that tired old expression 'just a secretary' is disappearing. Many these days are the unsung heroes of the office - the power behind the throne.

In a survey I read some time ago, senior businessmen were asked what they missed most when they retired. The majority replied, 'My PA!'. I think that says it all!"

PAs are brilliant because:

• They are the lynchpin of the team/company and the first point of contact
• They have a strategic as well as an operational/day-to-day view
• They are experienced problem solvers
• They are highly organised
• They have good communication skills - they're used to communicating with a variety of professionals within a team/Company (ie cleaner to Managing Director)

"I can safely say that almost all offices would fall apart without us. We, as PAs, are a reflection of the boss and of the company, a vital frontline contact for all current and potential clients. In my job with the Merchant Navy Welfare Board, I feel I go the extra mile and as an all-rounder responsible for organising, problem solving, communicating, to name but a few, I feel I work above and beyond my job description. While trying to cope with often demanding and fast-changing environments, I am responsible for managing the office and my assistant as well as executing my boss' work to a high level. I am the first point of contact in times of crisis and my boss relies on me as his 'working-life support'!"

"PAs play a big part by helping to make the boss's life run smoothly by organising his or her time effectively and by anticipating their needs and adapting to last minute changes. And don't forget, the PA deals with the small details, thereby allowing the boss to deal with the bigger issues. So they may not be indispensable - who is? - but they do have a major role!"