The Issue
In speaking with 100’s of Administrative Professionals and having done the job I have observed many things that cause AP’s to see what they do as a job and not a career. One of the major issues is many feel over worked, meaning they are asked to mimic their executives schedule and work load. They are often asked to do things outside the scope of their duties i.e. personal errands and the like. An EA or AA often acts as a middle man between their executive and their clients and or colleagues. So being an Admin is often considered a high stress job, without the high stress salary. In addition to the lesser pay, many AP’s must exhibit great humility. Many Executive Assistants are college graduates and are very intelligent hard working individuals. However even though the executive and the admin both may have a college education, industry knowledge, and years of experience the position of administrative support is still looked at as lesser or not equal. Many administrative professionals complain of being talked down to do, and not being treated as a co-worker but more as a servant. So why is someone who does Administrative worked looked down upon or paid low wages at some organizations? Well seeing that all executives and organizations are different it is hard to say. Speculation isn’t fact so we cannot say for certain.
Resolution
So what is to be done about this? What is certain by example of history is that often getting what one deserves isn’t given but demanded, lobbied for, and aggressively pursued. Those who felt the injustice made the choice to plead their case and get what they deserved. Please take a look at this article on salary negotiation, you may find it helpful. Here are some of Y-GA’s Tips:
- Know your worth so you can negotiate your worth.
- Do your homework, both within your organization and abroad to find out what can be done in regards to raises and bonuses.
- Be Diligent
- Be Patient
- Remember relationship is a large part of being an AP. “Partner for Success” with the person or persons you support.
- Speak Up with Solutions- Don’t just complain, come up with resolutions to the issues that concern you.
Many Administrative Professionals have the great fortune of working with employers who consider them equals, who value them in every way, and who are financially compensated accordingly. To them we wish continued success. If however you are among those AP’s who feel over worked and under paid, you must be your own advocate. Do you job to the best of your ability, know your worth and make sure those you work with and for, know it too. Remember to watch your attitude, and go for gold!
Posted on March 23, 2010
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