Message #45417

[Cozwaz]

Galaxyblue

I am new to the PA role, I have only been in my position since June last year.  Previously I temped for a year or so and prior to that I was self employed for about 8 years running a recruitment agency and carrying out secretarial and accounts work for various small businesses

My boss had never had a PA before until he employed me, and I had never been a PA before, so it has been a learning curve for both of us but we are getting there.

Over the last 10 months I have learnt so much, and have paid particular attention as to how my boss works, thinks and getting used to his ways.  I try and anticipate his next move and requirements eg documents he might need, things he might need for meetings, and if he has a meeting and hasn't asked me to get anything ready for it I always make a point of asking him.  When it comes to replying to correspondence, emails on his behalf I always think as to what he would put.

My tips are

1. If your post is with a new company - read, read and read.  When I started my job I spent the best part of the first two weeks reading project files etc so I knew what was going on.  It helped me tremendously

2.  As Bethalize says, write everything down.  My notepads are very valuable to me and I keep them all so I can always refer back to old messages, notes etc.

3. Don't use scraps of paper to write messages down on they can easily go astray.

4. If you are in any doubt about anything don't be afraid to ask your colleagues or boss.  My boss got pestered to death by me in the beginning.

5.  I know its been said before, but don't panic or get stressed out its not worth it.

6. One other thing I do do which I know some PAs don't .......... I use Outlook as a diary etc but I also have a desk diary which I keep up to date,  so if at any point (god forbid) we have computer problems I always have access to an up to date diary.

7.  If you need help or advice remember there is always Desk Demon, the forum has certainly given me lots of tips and ideas.

Good luck with your new job - I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoy mine.

Coz

PS Sorry I have waffled on!!