News

In our Today’s PA survey last year, we asked several questions relating to PA support networks.  These ranged from ‘Do you belong to any PA associations/networks?’’ to questions on attendance at conferences, exhibitions, training, and magazines read.

In our training courses and at our annual Today’s PA Conference, we see PAs who are new to networking suddenly discovering that being with other like-minded Assistants encourages not only learning, but sharing knowledge, and swapping ideas. Feedback indicates that this aspect is particularly appreciated by our attendees.

So, naturally, we were interested to see the survey results …

Surprisingly, over half of our 120 respondents (60%) did not belong to any network or association.

This was unexpected.  We all know that, at times, the role of PA can be a lonely one.  Reasons vary from working alone, perhaps in a remote office of a large organisation, or being the only PA in a specialist office or team.  PAs in these situations find they benefit enormously from joining such a group, learning from others’ experiences, and discovering new or alternatives approaches to working practices.  However, it is sometimes the very nature of your role – and that of your boss – can cause you to feel isolated.  EAs working at a very senior level may need that fresh perspective that comes from talking with those who appreciate the complexities of such roles.  These are just a couple of reasons why these networks and association are so invaluable, providing support, advice and practical help to PAs across the world.

There is now such a range of networks that there is literally something for everyone.  Professional associations, national and international, promote CPD, training and accreditation.  Local ‘meet-up’ groups provide fantastic networking opportunities for PAs and admin staff.  There are groups for PAs employed in specific sectors and industries, for those working at senior level, for high net-worth individuals, and for celebrities.

Virtual communities and groups on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn comprise of thousands of PAs from just about every country, keen to network, and link up with others who understand their unique role and the challenges faced.

And on further reading of the survey, it seems that despite not belonging to any ‘official’ association, a significant number of respondents read PA magazines, visit exhibitions, and/or have attended PA training and conferences – all forming part of that vital support network.

The complete results of this section of the survey were:

Do you read any PA magazine?

Yes – 38% (45 respondents), no 62% (73 respondents)

Do you belong to any PA associations/networks?

Yes – 40% (47 respondents), no 60% (71 respondents)

Have you attended a PA training day before?

Yes – 55% (65 respondents), no 45% (53 respondents)

 Have you attended a PA conference before?

Yes – 42% (50 respondents), no 58% (68 respondents)

Have you attended a PA exhibition before?

Yes – 37% (44 respondents), no 63% (74 respondents)

Interesting findings:

Several PAs who have worked in a PA type role for 20-30-50 years have indicated they have never attended a PA training day or a conference, don’t belong to any PA associations and don’t read any PA magazines.

Although the results of the survey were not what we were anticipated, there is still a strong case for PAs – at all levels – to seek out their local (or virtual) group or association. The recent explosion in professional associations and networking events clearly shows that PAs want to feel part of a community, to help and mentor each other, to share their expertise, and promote ‘best practice’ and professionalism throughout their industry.

Such a wealth of experience and knowledge across a wide cross-section of PAs, all working at the sharp end, surely must be worth tapping into?

PS:  Interestingly, just over half the respondents said they had attended a PA training course – another opportunity to network.

PAul Pennant

MD & Principal Trainer at Today’s PA