It’s the million-dollar question every business professional asks, so let’s explore what really makes an effective assistant.
- Adaptability
- Demonstrates flexibility in the face of change
- Projects a positive demeanor regardless of changes in working conditions
- Shows the ability to manage multiple conflicting priorities without loss of composure
- Organization
- Time Management
- Determines the appropriate allocation of time
- Space Management
- Effectively manages the workspace (i.e. keeps a clean and organized office, appropriately handles all paperwork, maintains control over the physical environment, etc.)
- Task Management
- Balances conflicting priorities in order to manage workflow, ensure the completion of essential projects, and meet critical deadlines
- Time Management
- Proactive Anticipation of Needs
- Demonstrates the ability to foresee problems and prevent them by taking action
- Utilizes analytical skills and a broad understanding of the business to effectively interpret needs
- Communication Skills
- Listening skills
- Understands that the most important aspect of communication is the act of listening and actively works to improve those skills
- Oral
- Speaks with confidence using clear, concise sentences and is easily understood
- Written
- Produces well thought‐out, professional correspondence free of grammatical and spelling errors
- Client Service
- Interacts professionally with clients and associates at all times
- Promptly responds to requests with accuracy and a courteous demeanor
- Listening skills
- Broad Understanding of Business Concepts
- Demonstrates an awareness of fundamental business principles as well as an understanding of the overall industry in which the business operates
- Team Player
- Works as a competent member of the team, willingly providing back‐up support for co‐workers when appropriate and actively supporting group goals
- Computer/Technical Skills
- Displays proficiency using standard office equipment such as a computer, fax, photocopier, scanner, etc.
- Demonstrates advanced proficiency by quickly adapting to new technology and easily acquiring new technical skills
- Judgment
- Exhibits sound judgment and the ability to make reasonable decisions in the absence of direction
- Swiftly refers problems/issues to the appropriate person(s) when necessary
- Works effectively without constant and direct supervision or guidance