Sunday, December 11, 2016

The evolution of today's administrative professional

The evolution of the administrative professional is a development process that not only provides growth for the individual, but also for the industry.  By 2024, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for administrative assistants will increase by 8 percent. In addition to a growing population of office personnel, job duties and responsibilities will also escalate, which will require more skills, experience, and education. Who would have thought that a job created over six decades ago to support male executives by answering phones, transcribing correspondence, greeting visitors, and of course, performing other duties as assigned would have the potential to grow into a managerial position?

The evolution involves a quick progression that simultaneously evolves with technology.  The more technology improves efficiency, the more productive we are expected to be which means additional responsibilities.  Today’s administrative professional has morphed into a diverse office employee who wears many hats, essentially running the office. In a recent article by The Atlantic, a successful Chicago office manager, Debra Leonard-Porch talks about her professional journey being a part of the evolution. Beginning her career as a receptionist, then to secretary, next as an executive assistant, and now office manager, her 35-year experience has added to the historical timeline of growth for today’s administrative professional. And since secretarial functions have become more administrative, the overall duties are to maintain the office and supervise activities.

The future is very bright for today’s administrative professional. There is a clear indication that this profession will continue to evolve in all industries and develop the people on its career path.
For more information about the career, certifications, and networking with others in the field, visit these professional development websites:


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