SecsintheCity

The Secret PA: Day 730

A jinxed juxtaposition and the Executive Armada 

So much for the Sunshine…gone before it even settled for a cuppa by the feel of it. I’m quite envious of Scarlet…..she’s heading off to Cyprus for a week. She’ll be lying on a beach while I’m getting the new office set up in not so sunny Manchester. In a way I’m glad work is hectic, it’s keeping my mind off things and I made a new friend at an event a few weeks ago.

She’s an administrator in retail in Northampton and is looking to move to London. At the moment she’s doing shift work so it’s four days on and four days off so she spends the days off in London. She says the money is good because the shifts are longer but she really wants to move here and find a Secretarial job in fashion. She’s tri lingual (and speaks Russian) so I’ve told her to look at SecsintheCity and upload her CV there because they do feature multilingual opportunities.

I got the official promotion from PA to Senior PA this week as Whiz Girl passed her probation and is now a Junior PA, so I guess I could start thinking of planning my holiday…but at the moment I’ve been so busy with work and working on myself. I think we all need to find time for ourselves each day to focus on the things we want to achieve and as Nancy used to say, get the ‘Dolphins’ going (she meant endorphins) - so I started taking yoga lessons and going for a run twice a week….and I’m reading this book called ‘Empowering Women’ and I was so high on the ‘Positive Thinking’ I was reeking of it when I got in to the office according to Whiz Girl.

The other reason I haven’t planned my holiday is that I am sort of on hold. Banker Guy said he was moving back before the summer…but then a week later he said he thinks his contract will be extended and if it is he wants to stay on. He has changed his mind about three times in the last two weeks! Whiz Girl is having her own set of issues with her seemingly perfect boyfriend and I overhead Tie Max talking to Pepper and it sounded like he was getting cold feet. I seriously hope not because if he doesn’t it won’t be pretty. No one wants to re-enact Carrie Bradshaw’s –getting-stood-up-at-the –altar. Maybe Pepper is not really the best person for him to be talking to about this given that he has been round the divorce block twice #justsaying It’s like a cloud of anti-relationship has been cast over this office all of a sudden.

Speaking of which there they come now and Scarlet seems to be making her way here too! It’s the invasion of the Management armada and Whiz is on lunch so I’m the sole defender.

 

Got to go. More later. 

 

xxx 

 

  

    

     

Follow me on Twitter

@TheSecretPA

 

Find me on Facebook! 

The Secret PA 

 

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To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

 

 

Green Office Week Calls on UK Businesses to Champion the Environment

Office workers are urging businesses across the UK to help support their environmental efforts as part of Avery Green Office Week, May 13^th-17^th.

A OnePoll survey of 1,000 office workers, commissioned as part of Green Office Week, has revealed that over eighty percent of individuals in the UK would like to see the businesses they work for do more for the environment. 

Despite the increasing importance for companies and organisations to adopt green policies, forty percent of office workers would still not rate their company as environmentally-friendly and less than thirty percent feel they are encouraged to implement green practices at work.

Two of the biggest factors holding businesses back are not having anyone specifically allocated to environmental issues (34%) and a lack of specialist green facilities and equipment (33%). Being too busy and lacking the time to be green was also a common complaint with nearly twenty percent of individuals highlighting that it has an impact on their environmental efforts. Despite this, over sixty percent said they would be happier if their workplace was seen to be more environmentally-friendly.

The survey also revealed that small businesses are lagging behind larger organisations when it comes to encouraging green practices. Individuals working at companies with more than 250 employees say they are twice as likely (40%) to be encouraged to be green at work than employees at smaller companies (21%), this is despite the cost-saving and efficiency benefits on offer to businesses adopting greener working practices.

 

Getting the Green Habit

 May 13th – 17th sees the fifth ever Avery Green Office Week, championing environmentally-friendly practices in the workplace. With individuals admitting to a host of green bugbears at work, including needlessly throwing away paper (41%), printing things that do not need to be printed (39%) and leaving electrical devices on standby (22%), Green Office Week aims to encourage and empower individuals across the UK to make small, practical changes to their daily work routine.

Gregg Corbett, Marketing Director at Avery, said: “We’re nearly four times more likely to consider ourselves greener at home than we are at work. This is largely due to the fact that we don’t feel we can make a big enough difference at work, where we often lack the right equipment and encouragement. Green Office Week sets out to change this by demonstrating the power of working together, highlighting the key issues that we can all look to address to make our workplaces more sustainable.”

Green Office Week provides tips and inspiration encouraging office individuals to think about the steps they can take towards creating a more sustainable working environment. The week also highlights some of the innovative solutions that can help us all to be greener at work, such as Avery Recycled Labels and Recycled Dividers, the Avery DTR Eco desktop accessory range and unique BlockOUT™ Labels that allow files, envelopes, and packaging to be re-used rather than thrown away. With most of these products part of the Avery Rewards promotion too, there’s never been a better time to be green!

To find out more and to get involved with Green Office Week 2013, simply register at greenofficeweek.eu or follow @greenofficeweek on Twitter.

 

The top green bugbears

1. Throwing away paper

2. Not putting recycling in the recycling bin

3. Throwing away food packaging

4. Printing out things that don't need to be

5. Leaving the computer switched on overnight

6. Leaving electronic devices on standby

7. Not turning off the lights

8. Not printing double sided

9. Boiling a full kettle

10. Leaving things on charge all day

11. Using plastic cups

12. Not reusing envelopes and parcels

13. Using non-environmentally-friendly products

14. Throwing out printer cartridges

15. Traveling by car too much

 

Which of the above do you see happening at your work place?  

Feel free to leave your comments and questions below

 

To find a new PA, EA or Secretarial opportunity, search and apply on SecsintheCity

 

Booking a holiday or overseas trip?

If you're looking for an effective and efficient travel solution for your boss or even a holiday idea the Emerald Global Group's friendly, knowledgeable and flexible team are a good starting point. Representing over 60 airlines, ATOL protected and with over 35 years’ experience the Emerald Group offers a range of cost effective and creative travel options via emeraldcorporate for business and etours for leisure travel.

Top tips for today’s travel planner:

• Ensure you have the appropriate travel insurance

• Remember relevant vaccincations if the destination demands it 

• Be clear brief about what you are looking for and by when

• Book as early as possible to secure the best deals

• Don’t be afraid to ask questions and inquire about alternatives 

Testimonials: 

‘They do everything and offer a very good service’

 - Professor Dato Jimmy Choo OBE, founder of Jimmy Choo shoes

 

‘…All requests, no matter how big or small are dealt with efficiently and with courtesy.  I would thoroughly recommend them’

- Simon Cundey, Director Henry Poole & Co, Savile Row

Join the LCCI PA Club for their 5th birthday at Planet Hollywood

 

The LCCI PA Club invites you to their 5th Birthday Party to be hosted by the fabulous Planet Hollywood London on Tuesday 4 June 2013. 

Eat, drink and feel famous at Planet Hollywood London, a unique dining experience inspired by the glamour of Hollywood, with movie memorabilia on display throughout the restaurant. Five versatile spaces perfect for events, receptions and parties from 35 seated in the Bond Room to the exclusive use of the venue for up to 800 people for a reception.

When: Tuesday 4 June 2013, 5.45pm - 7.45pm

Where:  Planet Hollywood, 57 - 60 Haymarket, London SW1Y 4QX

 

With brilliant prizes up for grabs and a goody bag for all attendees; this is certainly one party you don't want to miss!

Prizes provided by:

 Planet Hollywood

Four Pillars Hotel

Malaysia Airlines

Royal Ascot

 

Spaces are limited so please book early

 

To RSVP please download the booking here  form and return to lccipaclub@londonchamber.co.uk 

 

Please Note LCCI PA Club events are STRICTLY for PAs and corporate in-house event organisers only. Registration is at the discretion of the LCCI PA Club Event Manager.

 

 

To find a new PA opportunity, visit click here 

 

Welcome to Brasserie Blanc

 

Private dining and events are special at Brasserie Blanc and we love to organise a party! Each of our seven London brasseries in landmark locations is unique with their own inimitable character. From intimate wood panelled dining rooms to theatrical bars, there is a venue to suit everyone and every occasion. Enjoy cocktails overlooking the bustle of Covent Garden, champagne and canapés at Charlotte Street or a seated banquet at Tower Hill. 

 

 

The spectacular settings are complemented by menus specially created by Raymond Blanc and a carefully selected wine list. We can also create cocktails for the occasion, throw a masterclass so you can blend your own or organise wine and whiskey tastings. If you are looking for something extra, we can also source and arrange anything from conference equipment, PA systems and wedding DJ’s through to late licences if you want to party for longer.

We aim to make the whole process from start to finish as easy as possible. You will have a dedicated co-ordinator throughout the planning process and they will be on hand to answer all your queries. With this in mind, we asked our events co-ordinators their top tips:

• Know your brief - You may have some fantastic ideas but if they don’t fit the brief and budget then the event will not be a success. At Brasserie Blanc, we’ll ask key questions when you first contact us so this will help in the initial planning process. 

• Keep it simple – The key elements of any event are food, drink and entertainment so allocate your budget accordingly. Once the basics are covered you will know what budget you have left for the extras. Guests are more likely to remember the quality of the food than the threadcount of the napkins! 

• Cloakroom to Canapés to Carriages – Rehearse and plan every single element of the event from a guest’s perspective. This way you’ll identify potential issues and resolve them before the event rather than on the night!

If that isn’t enough, this May Brasserie Blanc is also launching the PA Passport. This is your passport to great incentives when booking tables, private dining and events at any of our seven London brasseries. Your PA Passport will also open the way to exclusive member offers and events. Pop into your local brasserie to pick up your card and find out more.

 

It is never too early to contact us to discuss your event and we’ll be happy to talk to you about your requirements and wish-list. Just visit www.brasserieblanc.com to contact your local venue.  

 

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 To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity  

Avery Research Reveals 70% Struggle with Office Organisation

Paperwork to archive, desks to de-clutter and files to update…it’s often the little things that we struggle with when it comes to organisation at work.

Sound familiar?

A new study from office experts Avery reveals that a staggering 70% of UK office workers admit to finding it hard to keep on top of organisation at work.

Simply not having enough time in the day to stay on top of things was one of the most common responses recorded in Avery’s research, with a quarter of office workers saying there are so many other important things to prioritise, that paperwork and organising always get left to one side. Messy desks and untidy workspaces scored highly on the list of problems that arose as a result of not having time to get organised in the office.

Day-to-day tasks that office workers struggle with include the filing of important documents, cited by 38% of people, and the proper organisation of files and folders by labelling them clearly. It even emerged that only four in ten office workers actually stick to a strict filing system!

 

Is Poor Organisation Holding You Back?

It seems the problems of letting office organisation slip can have some unfortunate consequences for efficiency in the workplace:

• Nearly one in five people say they have lost important documents through lack of organisation
• The same number said that important tasks can get delayed through wasting time looking for things
• One in ten people confess to having to work late simply to re-establish order and make the office look a bit more organised!

 

Office Organisation Made Easy with Avery

With spring upon us, now is the time to think about breaking bad working habits and being more organised in the office. If spring cleaning, de-cluttering and organising your office, or even just your desk sounds daunting, don’t worry, Avery Organising & Filing Labels are here to help. This practical range of labels is all about helping you stay on top of everyday office organisation.

Available in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes that fit perfectly on Box Files, Binders and Lever Arch Files, they’ll help you find what you need in an instant. The range includes labels made from Avery’s unique, totally opaque BlockOut™ material to completely cover old labels and text, so you can re-use your files and folders. And with free, easy-to-use Templates and Software available at www.Avery.eu you can create labels with company graphics and logos, to give your filing system the ultimate personalised touch. 

You’ll be surprised at just how much difference getting organised can make to your daily routine. So what are you waiting for? Arm yourself with Avery Organising & Filing Labels and take on that messy workspace, the dishevelled filing cabinet and those piles of paperwork!

Don’t forget, throughout 2013 you can treat yourself to an instant reward every time you purchase Avery. Just look inside special Avery Rewards promotional packs to find your unique code and start treating yourself to some retail therapy or a once in a lifetime experience by registering at www.averyrewards.co.uk. 

For more details on Avery’s Labels for Organising & Filing visit www.avery.co.uk/filinglabels

 

To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity  

 

 

Research carried by OnePoll. Survey size 2,000 UK office workers.

 

 

Avery Dennison Office and Consumer Products markets products under the well-known Avery brand name and is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of self-adhesive labels and paper products for laser, inkjet and multifunction printers, labelling software, index dividers and a wide range of other products for both consumer and commercial markets. Avery Dennison Office and Consumer Products Europe, a business unit of Avery Dennison Corporation, has manufacturing operations in UK and Germany and sales and marketing offices in more than ten countries across Europe.  For more information about Avery products, consumers can visit www.avery.eu. Avery and all other Avery brands and product names are trademarks of Avery Dennison Corporation.

 

For more information, please contact: Francesca Weeks on 01962 738718 or Francesca@footprint-comms.co.uk

Secretarial Salary Levels Increase in the UK

 

 

Personal assistant and secretarial salaries are increasing at a faster rate in the North than London, according to findings from the Robert Walters 2013 Salary Survey. 

Permanent salaries for support staff in the North of the UK are up 2.4% year-on-year (they have fallen 1.2% in London), while contract rates in the region are also up 2.9% (they have increased by 0.9% in London). This compared to overall UK figures of -0.1% for permanent salaries and +0.9% for contract rates. 

These relatively low average increases in basic pay are reflected in the fact that 40% of secretarial and support professionals received salary increases in 2012. The Robert Walters Compensation Survey (conducted in November 2012) also reveals that 38% received a bonus pay out last year. But more are predicting pay rises (49%) and bonuses (42%) in 2013. 

Lucy Bisset, Manager of Secretarial and Support Recruitment for the North region for Robert Walters, comments:

“The fact that salaries are creeping up in the North is a reflection of the jobs market across the region. While the market remains tough and vacancy levels are not spectacularly high, employers are willing to be flexible for talented professionals with desired skills. In particular, team secretaries and personal assistants with good Microsoft Office skills are especially in demand and are receiving salary uplifts when they are moving jobs. 

“Businesses are noticeably reluctant to commit to permanent headcount and many are preferring to hire on a temporary basis, which explains why contract rates have increased to the extent they have. Interestingly, many professionals who are being hired on this basis are subsequently being offered permanent positions.” 

Danika Jarmer, Associate Director of Secretarial & Support Recruitment in Robert Walters’ London office, comments:

“Although market conditions are clearly challenging, secretarial professionals are still receiving salary increases and employers are keen to attract and retain strong support staff. The majority of recruitment demand in London is from smaller companies at the moment as these employers seek personal assistants and team secretaries to support their business growth.”

 

If you're looking for a new legal role, search and apply for the latest opportunities from Robert Walters onSecsintheCity 

 

About the Robert Walters Salary Survey 2013

The Robert Walters Salary Survey 2013 is a review of recruitment and pay trends across each of the 23 countries that the firm operates in globally. The figures quoted are based on the difference between the average salary figures for each of the roles we have recruited for from January 2012 to January 2013.

 

About the Robert Walters Pay and Compensation Survey

The Robert Walters Pay and Compensation survey, conducted in November 2012, is based on the responses of 2,419 professionals about the pay and bonuses they received and their compensation expectations for the future. 123 of these respondents were secretarial and support professionals.

 

About Robert Walters

Robert Walters is one of the leading international recruitment consultancies, with a network of 53 offices spanning 24 countries, including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Continental Europe, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, South Africa and South America. 

WIN Dinner for Two at Brasserie Blanc with Avenueto

 

 

Win a prize each month with Avenueto

Until May 2013 we'll be having a competition each month for you to win something special from one of our members. The competitions are open to all, and the answer will be found somewhere within the avenueto.co.uk website.

 

This month’s prize is dinner for two with wine up to £70.00 at Brasserie Blanc (redeemable at any London Brasserie)

 

 

"I am often asked what a Brasserie Blanc is. Well if the Manoir is a delicate waltz then the Brasseries are the Can Can. For sure, this is not a place for refined haute cuisine and three course meals. Rather, Brasserie Blanc is a place for relaxed enjoyment where I can offer you simple, high quality food that comes as close as possible to the meals that my mother prepared for me at home in Besancon and at a price that encourages you to visit us regularly. The real origins of French brasseries are lost in time and probably in several litres of beer but nowadays in France they are the bastions of good eating and drinking, locally and informally. I want my Brasserie Blancs to be a central part of the local community where you can have fun and enjoy particularly good food. So sit back and relax"

- Raymond Blanc

 

At Brasserie Blanc we love a party! We can accommodate large groups at all our Brasseries and several have beautiful dining rooms. All events are supported by a great team and fabulous food.

Holding an event at Brasserie Blanc is a unique and special experience. With venues in Georgian townhouses, theatrical bars and the majestic splendour of medieval halls, Brasserie Blanc can host events ranging from private celebrations and weddings through to conferences and corporate events. Each event is unique and we will work with you to ensure that every detail exceeds your expectations whilst remaining within your budget. Choose from one of our events menus specially created by Raymond Blanc or work with our team to create a bespoke menu. We can cater for anything from a canapés reception with mouth-watering bite-sized tarts and succulent oysters through to a seated banquet featuring some of Brasserie Blanc’s signature dishes such as roast rack of Southdown lamb and free-range Cornish fillet steak.

We can also help you with the finishing touches to your event from arranging AV equipment, a DJ or a late licence for those extra special events.

It is never too early to contact us to discuss your event and we’ll be happy to talk to you about your requirements and wish-list. Just visit www.brasserieblanc.com to contact your local venue. 

 

 

COMPETITION

WIN Dinner for two with wine up to £70.00 at any of our London Brasseries

Click here and answer the question to be in with a chance to win

 

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To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

 

The Secret PA: Day 715

Dues, Departures and Doughnuts

This post has been long over due, sort of like that credit card bill that had a way of getting over due without even telling you. I moved house and then went on holiday for a few days and then came back to find a note for an overdue credit card bill for a credit card that I don’t even use! Not sure what that’s about since I am very good at keeping things like that in order so it looks like I’m going to have to make a trip to the bank. I can feel my stress levels starting to rise and it’s only Tuesday!   

Things have been a bit manic at work lately which explains why I’ve gone AWOL for a bit. The bosses finally agreed on an office space up in Manchester which is where I’ve been over the last few weeks just trying to set things up. It should be fully functional in the next 2 weeks but there is still plenty of admin that needs to be sorted for the move but luckily I’ve got Whiz Girl to help. Tie Max’s stag do is pretty much organised and the wedding plans are going relatively well…or shall we say with minimal margins for errors and rounded corners instead of corners being cut. 

There’s been a fair few changes in the office, with people moving around and coming and going. Pink Streak has left and Raggie’s internship finished. Helper has moved back home to Australia so I guess we won’t be seeing any more of his post it notes about the office when things are fixed…..or helicopters in the canteen. The blokes in IT gave him a remote controlled helicopter which had a fair few rounds about the kitchen/lounge area at lunchtime courtesy of the number of blokes wanting to have a go. Whiz Girl and I happened to go there to make a coffee and voila! Boys and their toys. 

Clawly is back but seems quite changed and actually seems to like her job and doesn’t talk about leaving like she used to. She even seems ‘uninterested’ in the Curly Scarecrow. There’s a new bloke in Finance who decided it was smart to leave an invoice on my desk in my absence and couldn’t understand how it went AWOL by the time I returned to the office. 

I had a nice break for a few days in Brighton with the girls which was lovely but it just went so quickly. Scarlet and Pepper are up in Manchester for a couple of days this week and Tie Max is on Jury duty so in that sense things are a wee bit quieter. Some of the finance, sales and marketing teams are moving up to Manchester and new staff are being taken on so in that sense there’s been a bit of a restructure. I might have to look for a team PA for the Manchester office but for now it looks like I’ll be managing things from here. 

It’s so sunny outside today; hopefully it’ll stay like this over the weekend. Oh there’s Whiz Girl with our doughnuts and frappuccinos. Yum! Got to go get my caffeine shot before tackling some reports and sinking in to a world of spreadsheets.

 

More soon xx

 

  

    

     

Follow me on Twitter

@TheSecretPA

 

Find me on Facebook! 

The Secret PA 

 

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To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

Redundancy - get over it. Onwards and Upwards

By Tanya De Aguiar

Tanya De Aguiar is PA to a Director and a Senior Executive at a Major UK Retail Bank. She has worked across a range of industries which include Travel, Transportation, and now Banking. 

A year ago, I was working as a PA to two Heads of Departments at a small but well known Association and then suddenly, after four years of service all of a sudden I was facing redundancy. Jolted I went from content to shocked to worried. At first It was soul destroying and as a result my health began to decline. I was asked to work in my notice period and I managed to negotiate time to attend interviews and if necessary, leave the role earlier than planned but still retain my full redundancy package. Over the 3 month notice period, I applied for what felt like hundreds of jobs. Even if the role sounded remotely like something I could do, I applied. Even if it took me away from the roles I preferred.

I dug out business cards of agents I had used previously and contacted them as well. Former work colleagues that I had kept in touch with when they moved on were also contacted. I put my CV on every conceivable jobsite such as Secsinthecity and others. I updated my Linkedin profile and used that to apply for roles as well. I left no stone unturned. I even went on Twitter having previously claimed to have no time for that. (On a side note, if you are not on twitter, do join and soon and follow @Secsjobs and @Secsinthecity) My fellow PA’s that I have met on twitter via @SecsintheCity have been amazing and very encouraging when you need someone in the same role who will understand your pain and quite frankly kept me going.

A couple of weeks into working the notice period, I was contacted by phone as someone had found my CV online and thought that I might be a good fit for one of their positions. An impromptu phone interview took place and I heard nothing further and forgot about it in between everything else. After weeks of searching and applying, and only two interviews that went nowhere, I was starting to consider the possibility of having to move home when I got a call from the forgotten “agency” that conducted the phone interview and was asked to come in for a competency interview. I had never been through one of those before and was understandably nervous. Even more so when I discovered that the agency wasn’t really an agency but rather the HR department for a large UK Retail bank.

I went for the interview but having heard nothing further after almost 2 weeks, I assumed I had been unsuccessful as I lacked “Banking Experience”. Precisely 2 weeks after the last interview I got a call from the HR department apologising for the lack of feedback. Apparently the Heads were having diary conflicts that were now sorted and would I be willing to come in the next day for a meeting with the two Head that this role would be looking after. I went, and found that these were two people I could work with and be comfortable to disagree with them if needed.

A further week went by and on the way back from a disastrous interview for another role; I got “The Call” from the Bank’s HR Department. The Role was mine! After five months of soul-destroying worrying, I had a new role even without the banking experience and nine months later, I’m still loving it! I haven’t been able to say that I enjoy going to work for a long time prior to this role, but I can say it now! And my health made a dramatic turnaround.

I have been given a chance to use my hard earned skills and learn a few more. I was given to tools to do my job from anywhere. I can now work from home as easily as I can in the office (though not often) and as much as I hate it, I find I can’t live without the dreaded Blackberry.

What I discovered through the whole redundancy fiasco is that whilst you may not suit the role you applied for, the agency or workplace that you applied to, may have another role not yet made public that will suit you better.

For those of you in the same or similar situation don’t be afraid to ask for things from you ‘old’ bosses. Whilst you may not get all you ask for, it certainly won’t hurt. And time off for Interviews is a must and make sure that it doesn’t affect your remaining holiday entitlement.

Be prepared to temp. Some companies will be more likely to hire a temp already working the role, than train someone new. Be willing to learn. Even if it’s something you already know. Their way might be better. Or you can share your way which leads to you being seen as someone who will contribute to the Organisation. And I know it’s difficult and extremely stressful, but try to maintain your usual ‘Positive, Can do attitude’. It does help, especially in front of a would-be employer.

 

SecsintheCity Top Tips if you're being made redundant: 

Get started with your jobsearch immediately.

• Update your CV  - View our CV template to get started

• Register and Upload your CV on SecsintheCity so employers and recruiters can find you

• Sign up for newsletters, LIKE us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @SecsintheCity and @Secsjobs to keep up to date with the latest jobs and updates

• Set up job alerts by saving your searches so you never miss out on the right job for you

• Join our community on LinkedIn

 

 Got a question about your job search or need career advice? Feel free to leave your questions and  comments below.  

Tanya De Aguiar is PA to a Director and a Senior Executive at a Major UK Retail Bank. She has worked across a range of industries which include Travel, Transportation, and now Banking. Although new to the banking industry and the very fast paced role, she still finds time to feed her fascination with Excel and loves trying to figure out a new programme.  

Win tickets to the Royal Ascot with the LCCI PA Club

 

 

The LCCI PA Club is offering you the chance to WIN a table for 4 with full hospitality on Saturday 22 June at Royal Ascot - the world’s most famous race meeting. Read on to find out how you can be in the running for this prize. 

About the venue:

The Panoramic Restaurant

This fabulous restaurant is located on Level 6 of Ascot’s magnificent grandstand. Offering stunning views across the racecourse, chef Tom Kerridge from the 2 Michelin starred The Hand and Flowers Restaurant in Marlow, will be presenting his five course lunch and afternoon tea. This prize is worth over £3500.00 and includes: 

• Royal Enclosure Badges*
• Private table for 4 people
• Champagne and caviar reception
• Five course lunch with selected wines and liqueurs
• Complimentary bar throughout the day including Champagne
• Afternoon tea with strawberries and cream
• One car parking label per couple, racecard and racing paper

 *please note strict Royal Enclosure dress code applies to this restaurant

 

Click here to enter your details for a chance to win this fabulous prize. 

 

 

Work Life Balance - PA Eleanor Marshall shares her top tips

By Eleanor Marshall

Eleanor Marshall is  Senior PA to Content and Marketing Directors of Absolute Radio, as well as the Marketing Director.She is passionate about Event Management, and works within the Events team, regularly working on live gigs, music festivals and outside broadcasts. In addition she is also the ‘voice’ of Absolute 80s on all social media accounts, including Twitter and Facebook. Before Absolute Radio she worked as PA to the CEO in a TV advertising company, and prior to this she managed a team of secretaries in the Lloyds of London insurance market in the City. 

Working long hours, skipping lunch breaks and taking work home are all common traits, even more so now with the rise of Smartphone technology and mobile working. More hours are spent reading and replying to emails than ever before.

The tendency to work late and ‘go the extra mile’ are classic personality traits of a PA, and perfectionism and a strong work ethic go hand in hand with the role. More often than not the PA is the first and last person in the office each day, and patterns like this can have a serious impact on work/life balance.

I’m a firm believer that work expands to meet the time given to it, and regularly staying late doesn’t mean that you actually get more work done; it just means you spend longer working on the same jobs. Be really strict with yourself about leaving on time, set yourself a fixed time to leave and then stick to it. If you can’t get all your work done on time (and you truly are working effectively during the day) then perhaps your workload is too much, and you need to sit down with your boss to see what you can do about it.

Of course there are always certain times when there is no getting away from working late; but these should be the exception, not the norm. If you get in to a habit of working late on a daily basis then you need to understand why. Do you simply have too much work for one person? Or are you not managing your time as effectively as you can? Understanding the reasons behind your work overload are important. 

 

So what can you do to redress your work/life balance?

 

Lunch

Missing lunch (or eating lunch at your desk) is a common mistake. You might think you are gaining time, but time you spend resting (and away from your computer) is not wasted time and taking time out from the office can actually make you more productive when you are working. When possible, try and leave the office and take a walk even if it’s just for 15 minutes, or sit in a local park and read a book. Clearing your head and getting some fresh air is important. I feel very stagnant if I work through lunch and miss that gap in the middle of the day. Remember: you are not paid for that hour, and it is yours to use as you wish. Use it wisely, and take a break. It’s surprising how little it takes to feel refreshed; even just leaving the office and walking around the block once can help put a new perspective on things.

 

Turn your phone off

If you start answering calls and emails 24/7, then your boss will expect you to. Unless you are specifically employed to be on call during non-work hours, it’s best to avoid falling in to the trap of being available at all times. Your time away from the office is precious; try to spend it doing things as unrelated to your work as possible. It will make you better at your job.

 

Schedule your personal time

If you’re like me, I find it very difficult to find the time to see all my friends and family, mainly because the time I’m not working is often spent doing (usually overdue) personal admin or catching up on much needed sleep!

 

One way of tackling this is to strictly schedule your personal time in the same way that you plan your boss’s diary. The way I see it, I have five short evenings per week to meet my personal priorities, so I plan my week in advance, and try to stick to it. For example a typical week will be Mon: workout, Tues: working at gig, Wed: see my sister, Thurs: night in with husband, Fri: dinner with friends. I put these tasks in my paper and online diaries and stick to my plans. I’ve even been known to schedule nights in to “sleep” or “do laundry”!  Having things written down helps remind me of what I need to do, keeps me focused and helps me to achieve the things I really need to get done. 

 

How do you maintain your worklife balance? Feel free to share your thoughts

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If you're looking for a new PA role (a PA job within a Media organization perhaps?) search and apply on SecsintheCity 

 

The 2013 Super PA – what it takes to be one

By Kate O'Halloran

Kate O’Halloran is PA to Directors at Tiger Recruitment. Kate’s role is varied from PA, to general admin to marketing and blogging. Kate loves her work and for her, the team she works with is just as important if not more than the role itself.  

With the Easter Break over and the winter slipping into the distance (slowly and we hope surely!), it is a great time to evaluate your goals as a PA and make those changes to get your career on track.

So what does it take to be a Super PA?

First and foremost, knowing the person you are supporting inside and out are a must. From their regular meetings with clients and knowing who their contacts are to how they like to have their cup of tea. Pre-empting the day ahead will aid in your work load being less hectic and thus more organised, which your boss will love you for! You are, as your title says, their Personal Assistant. So it is expected that you are on top of the most current events occurring in the office and the business in which your boss can rely on you to have an answer ready for them – you are their eyes and ears.

Being a PA can at times be quite a demanding role. One minute the office can be calm and relaxed and then next minute everything starts happening and your boss needs you to do a million things at once! It is important to remain calm under pressure and organised with files up to date, meetings in order with papers ready and the like to assist you when these times arise. A to-do list will also help in staying on top of your normal work, with prioritising urgent requirements.

As a PA, communication is essential. A polished PA is highly valued as you are representing your boss and the business, either over the phone, in person or even email. Communication is also important between you and your boss. Daily meetings should occur so as to find out the events of the day ahead and so you can brief your boss on anything that has arisen as well.

Punctuality in any job is a characteristic that is highly valued. It demonstrates not only that you are organised in getting to work or a meeting on time, but you are eager to be there.

Finally, having a good understanding of MS Office suites is imperative. Make sure you stay updated with the latest versions, and if there are any programs that you aren’t completely confident on, then it could be a good idea to undertake some training to ‘freshen up’ your skills.

So after looking at our top characteristics to make a Super PA, do you think you possess them? Or are there aspects that you think you could improve on? Or perhaps you have grown tired of your current role and you are looking for a change? Either way, now is a fantastic time to re-evaluate your goals so you are on track to where you want to be. Stay focused and be productive, and you will get to where you want to be.

 

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What's the biggest challenge you've had to face on the job to date? We'd love to hear about your experience. 

 

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If you're looking for a new PA role search and apply on SecsintheCity 

Spring PA Audio Teleclass Sessions

 

 

Due to popular demand we are running a further series of 4 PA Audio Teleclass Sessions commencing on Thursday 18th April at 1pm. 

We invite you to join our sessions to be motivated and inspired and gain Tools and Tips to be more effective without having to leave your desk. 

You are the Office Nurturer, Organiser & Saviour and without you the Boss and the Team could not do their job. 

Would you like a friendly voice every 2 weeks offering you tools and tips to take away the pressure?

 

Then join me, Rosemary Parr.....

 

On :  

Thursday 18th April at 1pm

Thursday 2nd May at 1pm

Thursday 16th May at 1pm

 

Thursday 30th May at 1pm - on our final Teleclass we will have Guest Speaker, Dan Collins of www.freshtracks.co.uk an expert motivational trainer and team builder.

 

Worried you might miss the Teleclass?

Don't worry each Teleclass will be recorded and you will be sent an email with the recording so you can listen in your own time.

 

Content of the 4 Sessions will include the following topics:

• 7 Key Skills of 21st Century PAs. Discover the 7 key skills and how to implement them within your role for increased knowledge and confidence.

• Top Tips on how to manage the Executive Office from multi tasking and project management through to relationship building and client and customer liaison.

• Enhancing your Emotional Intelligence, how to have those Courageous Conversations. Plus managing workplace stress and looking after your health and wellbeing.

• Dan Collins on maintaining motivation, managing and juggling meeting schedules and top tips on building effective teams. 

 

Cost of the Teleclass Sessions:

£10 a session. 4 x Sessions are £40.

Book and pay for all 4 sessions in advance and receive a 10% discount to £36.00.

You will receive details of registering for the Teleclass once you have paid.

 

To make payment:

Email us at enquiries@globalpanetwork.com and we will send you a Paypal invoice or we will invoice your company and you pay via BACS transfer.

 

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Book early, limited places.

For further information call 0845 257 4804 or email us at

enquiries@globalpanetwork.com

 

We look forward to you joining us on the call.

 

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Testimonials from previous Teleclass Sessions:

"I don't usually enthuse about anything but I just wanted to say what a great teleclass yesterday. Loads of inspiration just when I needed it. Suzy had so much enthusiasm and gave great examples I could really relate to." Sue, Prometric

 

"Thank you for a very informative Teleclass. Whilst I have been working as a senior level Executive PA for many years, I found it refreshing to hear things from another perspective and it is also good to be reminded of some of the obvious things. Some good down to earth advice went down an absolute treat." Susie, NHS

Thank you, I have enjoyed the teleclass very much and would be interested in future ones." Julie, Circle Housing Group

"I think the classes have been great. I have got many good tips from you that I can use and some that I am already using. So altogether it's great value. On top of that you've really got a perfect voice for this and I am enjoying your British language as well. That in itself is worth it for me - being a Dane." Lone, IC Companys, Copenhagen

 

 

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 To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

 

Get Insider PA Knowledge From Celebrity Personal Assistant

Donna Coulling, PA to Helena Bonham Carter & Rachel Weisz

Become An Extraordinary PA In A Day

★ Not sure how to prioritize in order to be 3 steps ahead?

★ Tired of feeling stressed at the end of a long day?

★ Worried about learning on your feet without consuming so much    

    time?

Donna's Seminar Helps Take Your PA Skills To The Next Level.

Say Goodbye To Stress and Confusion And Hello To Aptitude And Resilience….

 

★ Learn The Tips and Secrets of a Successful PA

★ Know Exactly What To Say When Networking With Influential People

★ Build Your IT Knowledge  And Become Invaluable To Your Clients

 

This one day course is filled to the brim with tips and secrets from Donna on how she manages to juggle 4 clients, a daughter, TV presenting, public speaking, plus running a website and newsletter. Follow the exercises in Donna’s detailed workbook, get advice, motivation and inspiration from guest speakers including Victoria Darragh from top recruitment consultants HAYS, Stephanie Davies – motivation expert from Laughology and Lucy Brazier – networking and contacts supremo and founder and publisher of Executive Secretary Magazine and VA Magazine. Donna has been the assistant to Helena Bonham Carter, Rachel Weisz, Sir Derek Jacobi and Samuel West for over a decade. Given her passion and enthusiasm for the job she loves, you can’t help but come away feeling enthused and invigorated for the role you have or one you might be working towards.

 

DATE: May 17th 2013: 8.45am – 5.30pm

VENUE: HAYS, 107 Cheapside, London EC2V 6DB

PRICE: ￡195

 

To find out more about Donna: www.DonnaCoulling.com

Bookings and more details:: Becky@donnacoulling.com

Don’t miss this opportunity, places are limited.

 

 Are you attending? 

 

To find a new PA opportunity, visit click here

The Secret PA: Day 690

Gigs, Gags and Geiger!

As much as I love the sequence 4 day week- 4 day weekend – 4 day week it does result in a bit of a squeeze when it comes to fitting 5 days work into 4 days. Goodbye lunch hour, hello lunch bar i.e. 2 x cereal bars acquired via the kitchen vending machine with change collected from my purse, handbag pocket and desk drawer.

I also made two trips to Manchester before Easter to recci for office spaces before drawing up a shortlist to take the bosses to see. It wasn’t too hard to get it down to 5 because I had a pretty detailed spec. I won’t be spending a lot of time there but the bosses will make trips up and I will sometimes need to go with them so I did choose places that I liked too ;) Let’s see what the bosses think. Worst case scenario they won’t agree on any so it’ll be back to square one. That’s not unusual and when you have three to contend with….it’s hard to please everyone.

The Easter event went well and the intern’s gig was a bigger hit than I expected. It even went on to YouTube before midnight and a few clients are interested. Of course Scarlet wants us to own the relationship so essentially we’ll be working as her agent but then intermediaries play a key role in the way businesses develops today which is fine as long as your contract safeguards your spot in the middle. The risk is often that A and C will develop a relationship and you’ll get eliminated from the equation but that’s why it’s a key clause in contracts. And after all, we did give her the opportunity to perform and it was a company event funded by sponsors. The bosses are also well connected and we have the resource to support her and as they say “it’s all about the money honey” #cheesy  

The weekend went so quick, then again it always does when you’re having a good time. I spent it with family but we also had friends round as friends I grew up with were also back at their folks for the Easter break. Too much eating and too little exercise. I haven’t even been for Pilates in at least a month!

We did go shopping one day though which is exercise when it’s a marathon shopping day out. The best part was my bargain buy at Kurt Geiger. It doesn’t get better than 70% off really and I did need new pumps for work. I did go for a much needed mani pedi with mum after which was nice. A change from going with the boss where it’s her having a manicure and me writing notes. 

The only non relaxing bit of the weekend was Twitter’s April Fool’s joke that did cause me momentary panic.

For those of you who didn’t have the pleasure of being woken up by a text saying Twitter was going to start charging for vowel usage in tweets and then met by Twitter’s articulation of this new rule only to end up at the below, you saved yourself a few extra heart beats.

It was pretty ingenious though I have to admit. It’s been a while since someone came up with a good April Fool’s Day prank. I have to say that Grumpy Cat didn’t go down as well with me….and by the sounds of it with the bosses too…they were discussing it when I walked into work on Tuesday and they weren’t impressed. They were impressed with Twitter’s April Fool’s Day gag.

 

Anyway, I’ve got to head over to HR…. There a bit of reorganisation and movement of sorts happening in the office at the moment…

 

Fill you in later xx

 

 

  

    

     

Follow me on Twitter

@TheSecretPA

 

Find me on Facebook! 

The Secret PA 

 

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To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

 

 

Join us with the LCCI PA Club at the Royal Garden Hotel

Join the LCCI PA Club for an exclusive showcase of the Royal Garden Hotel. Network with like-minded colleagues and enjoy drinks and canapés.....

 

The Five Star Royal Garden Hotel is located in the heart of Kensington, overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens and boasts a panoramic view of the capital's skyline.

On: Wednesday 22 May 2013, 6.00pm - 8.00pm

At : Royal Garden Hotel, 2 - 24 Kensington High Street, London W8 4PT

 The Five Star Royal Garden Hotel is located in the heart of Kensington, overlooking Kensington Palace and Gardens and boasts a panoramic view of the capital's skyline. This contemporary hotel combines the utmost in luxury with an unsurpassed level of service. The hotel includes 394 rooms and 17 magnificent suites. 

The renowned Min Jiang restaurant offers fine dining Chinese cuisine whilst the elegant, more traditional Park Terrace restaurant offers finest British food made with locally sourced ingredients, including an extravagant afternoon tea service.

To enhance your stay, the hotel also has a Spa and three bars. With excellent transport links to the traditional English countryside and London's fashionable west end situated just 10 minutes away, the Hotel is perfectly positioned to experience both the contemporary and traditional British lifestyle.

        

To book download booking form  here and return to lccipaclub@londonchamber.co.uk

 

Please note LCCI PA Club events are STRICTLY for PAs and professional in-house event organisers only, event registrations will only be accepted if a full corporate email address is provided 

 

See you there?

If you’ve previously attended any LCCI PA Club events and would like to share your experiences, feel free to leave your comments below. 

 

 

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 To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

 

Bank Manager, Tennis Umpire, Judge, Dancer....or PA?

By Sacha Louise Keating

Sacha provides Executive Support Officer to Chief Executive at Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust. She has worked as a Personal Assistant/Executive Assistant for six years and enjoys organising, planning, keep fit, running, media & has a general zesty positive & enthusiastic energy for life…in amongst all the chaos

 

 

A retrospective look at my life & views as a busy PA…..   

My childhood aspirations were to become a Bank Manager, Judge or Tennis Umpire (not sure where that one came from) or a famous actress or dancer.I mean I just assumed it was going to happen, right? Well needless to say none of the above happened. Any regrets? No. I would not change how things have gone or where my life is taking me now. Well maybe just the odd tweak here or there.

I work as an Executive Support Officer to the CEO of a large NHS Trust based in Liverpool – recently appointed having previously worked as a PA to the CEO of a large social enterprise, PA to the Board of an NHS out of hours organisation and PA to the CEO/Chair at Liverpool Women’s Hospital. I have supported large teams of eight to ten people and now I support one. Happier? Oh yes.

I love being a PA but it has not been an easy ride. I “fell” in to the role from an admin position as I enjoyed organising, planning, thinking outside the box and yes being in control. I work well alone and although on the surface I am a popular, social creature, underneath I am very much a person who prefers their own company – being a PA I get to indulge both. The demands on you are immense – talk about having to be an octopus come juggler. I spin that many plates that I sometimes feel I could give Gordan Ramsey a run for his money.

It can be a tough, demanding and often unforgiving job, working under immense pressure for a number of high level staff who each consider their own needs more important than the rest – often you are the middle ground, mediator...pacifist almost.

Our skillset requires being the most competent drinks maker in the world to project organiser, assisting in tenders, line management and events co-ordination – where else do you find these diverse and often overlooked skills in any other job role. I often used to sit at my desk and felt like crying, feeling inadequate as I tried to manage a huge amount of tasks flying in from all angles, not knowing where to even start sometimes & fit in meetings in calendars that had the space of a thimble for numerous staff, or slave over endless minutes from endless meetings only to see huge parts of them ripped apart in horrid red tracking font…was I really that bad at taking these things. A thick skin was indeed developed to cope with the endless wondering if you were actually just not able to cope.

Then something happened…I can’t exactly put it in to words what it was but life events turned everything back around and now I have “fallen” back into something and found a new found passion which is transforming the way I work….I relish the role of a PA, thriving on all the pressure and demands and being part of a team of strong like-minded individuals who just get how it feels and I have learnt to feel immensely proud of what I achieve anddeliver in often very quick turnarounds of time.

All PAs should feel proud…you are a go getter, networker, accomplished organiser and planner, negotiator, persuader, sales person, confidante, trusted co-worker and downright amazing support network that enables the top level to deliver. The role has evolved and in my opinion supporting any more than one or two staff is counterproductive as it loses energy and perspective especially when through endless meetings and minutes into the mix…bring the role back to a more old fashioned view and you can excel and become the PA you want to be and exactly what it was designed to achieve….after all nothing is unachievable……

 

Feel free to share your thoughts and feelings in the comments space below

 

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 To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

Smartbox: Smart gift. Smart offer - Special offer for PAs from Buyagift

 

Are you struggling to find the perfect gift or reward for your colleagues, employees or customers? Smartboxes are uniquely packaged gift boxes allowing the recipient to select the what, when and the where, making the decision easy on you.   Each box includes a glossy brochure packed full of exciting experiences, as well as the contact details so your recipient can call up and book directly with the location of their choice. Each box is valid until the 21st December 2013 so they have plenty of time to choose what to do.   What’s more, Buyagift are offering corporate customers a fantastic 30% off* Smartboxes until the end of April 2013! *based on full retail price.   To take advantage of this great offer, call now on 0870 444 2577 or email info@buyagiftcorp.com and quote TMDR.

 

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 To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity 

 

Join the Global PA network for an evening at Boujis London

Since opening in 2002, Boujis has built and enjoyed the reputation our clientele have given us: that of the best private members’ club in London. Frequent visits from international VIPs, aristocracy and other high profile figures demonstrate not only Boujis’ style, but also the natural intoxicating power it has to draw these same crowds back for more. Naturally and due to demand, the club has opened itself up as an events venue; available for private and corporate parties, receptions and networking events.

Boujis itself also hosts six prestigious global events each year, taking over venues such as Blue Marlin in Ibiza and providing a range of locations for the elite and chic of London and beyond to party and socialise.

             

 

Where: 43 Thurloe Street, London SW7

When: Wednesday 3rd April between 9pm and 10.30pm.

 

This special event, with live music will be followed by free access to the club which will open to the public from 10.30pm.

 

 

 

If you would like to attend please email kayleigh@globalpanetwork.com 

 

We look forward to seeing you on the night. 

  

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 To find a new PA opportunity, search and apply for your ideal role on SecsintheCity