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Why do PAs need PA training?  It’s a question you may have been asked from time to time (although hopefully not too often).

So why exactly do PAs need good, high-calibre, real-life PA training?

The role of a PA is unique.  You need to be able to provide comprehensive support and assistance to your manager or managers, some of whom may work remotely (for all or part of the week).  You are the first point of contact for anyone wishing to speak to your boss, and you are your boss’s first port of call when things don’t go as planned!  You need to remain in control of any situation and be up to speed on all matters concerning your boss, team or department.  You need to be organised and efficient, and you also need to be one step ahead!  Dedicated PA training courses are developed with all this in mind.

Over the years, since technology first started to creep (and then to sprint) into the office, many traditional jobs have changed out of all recognition.  That of the PA is just one example. However, the PA’s role has also been enhanced by office technology and PA training has grown and developed to reflect this.

The traditional skills (such as shorthand and typing speeds) are still important but these, too, have adapted.  For instance, PAs still look after their bosses’ diaries but today they need be experts in Outlook to do so efficiently. And just as the office and the role of the PA/EA has changed, so PA courses have had to adapt to help PAs stay ahead of the curve.

A PA’s job is now more demanding and stressful than ever.  As well as typing, taking minutes, and diary/email management, PAs may also need to manage budgets, run projects, interview staff, make presentations and write reports. Training now needs to cover all of these skills and more.

PAs can be the lynchpin of their departments or even of entire offices so it’s important to be able to manage heavy workloads, minimise stress and to remain calm and cool in any situation.  Training in soft skills such these, together with office etiquette, and dealing with difficult people are very popular courses and becoming more so as the demands of the role continue to grow. The role of the PA has broadened considerably over recent years as organised, efficient offices rely more and more on their PAs.

PA courses are designed and delivered by those who understand the challenges and restraints that go with being a PA.  Such training will not only provide you with the skills and knowledge you need but will also inspire and motivate you throughout your career.