More than just a steppingstone, it’s a chosen profession!

Many of us administrative professionals see our jobs as a stepping stone for something "bigger "(whatever that is) than our current jobs. What we fail to note is that, it is actually a chosen profession for those who are passionate about the roles they play in their respective organizations.

The stepping stone thinkers are the ones who got into their jobs because there was nothing else to do or wanted to use the role as an entering point into a company or an industry of their choice. They don’t take pride in what they do and do not see the reason why they need to grow in their role. Their focus is on how to get the "bigger thing” and so all their effort is geared towards getting the “bigger” thing. What they forget to know is that to get the ‘’bigger’’ thing they need to excel in what they are currently doing (especially if you are considering being promoted)

The bible says in Ecclesiastes 9:10 “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” It also says in Luke 16:10 “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much”

There is nothing wrong with seeing your current job as a stepping-stone but my point is that, as you are already playing the role of an administrative professional see it as a profession and engage in activities that will develop and expand your knowledge in the role. Our job nowadays requires a higher skill set along with a higher educational background so take pride in what you do and excel at it and then when it’s time to move onto something “bigger” you do that gracefully!

An interesting aspect of this profession is that , it actually prepares you for whatever “bigger “thing you are aspiring for. I mean look at the skills that we put to bear performing our duties: time management skills, project management skills, communication skills, interpersonal skills, thinking on your feet, situation adaptability, conflict management, dealing with cultural diversity, being flexible just to mention a few. In addition, you are exposed to executives who are teaching, coaching and mentoring you to be became an executive yourself.

How then do you consider your role as a chosen profession?

Borrowing from the words of Jasmine Freeman, Executive Assistant to the CEO of Office Dynamics:

Decide, seek and grow.

Decide this is a profession and use all the tools available to excel at your role. You can start by joining your professional association; attending conferences, seminars and workshops.

Seek out a mentor. At APAG, one of the benefits for members is that they get to learn from people who have several years of experience in this profession.

Grow your network of people in your field so you can learn and share ideas with them. That is why you need to join APAG to connect with your peers to learn, share and grow!