Future-Proof Your Administrative Career: 5 Insights from Robert Half Experts

Future-Proof Your Administrative Career: 5 Insights from Robert Half’s Top Experts

In a world where roles are evolving as quickly as technology, staying relevant as an administrative professional requires more than experience—it demands adaptability, curiosity, and a strategic mindset.

That was the resounding message in a recent Office Dynamics webinar led by Alexandra Von Tiergarten, District Director at Robert Half International, and Kim Garstein, Senior Vice President at Robert Half International.

From market trends and AI integration to personal branding and career resilience, Alexandra and Kim shared valuable advice for today’s assistants on how to future-proof your administrative career. 

And the best part? You can meet Alexandra in person at the 32nd Annual Conference for Administrative Excellence this October, where she will be delivering a powerful session on Dynamic Professional Presence and co-leading our Career Coaching Corner.

Here’s a recap of the key takeaways—and why this year’s conference is the perfect next step for your career growth.

1. Yes, AI Is Here—And It’s Your Career Advantage

Both Alexandra and Kim emphasized a core truth: AI isn’t replacing administrative professionals—it’s elevating them.

Rather than fearing the shift, they encouraged assistants to embrace AI tools like ChatGPT, job scan platforms, and resume builders. These tools automate routine tasks, giving assistants more time to focus on high-value, strategic work like event planning, executive support, and stakeholder communication.

Pro tip from Kim: Start simple. Use AI to draft job descriptions, create travel itineraries, or research companies in your area. Then, personalize the output to showcase your unique voice and expertise.

2. Communication Skills Are Non-Negotiable

In today’s hybrid and remote environments, strong communication skills—both verbal and written—are critical. Alexandra highlighted the importance of knowing when to speak up on Zoom, how to manage your digital presence, and why active listening is one of the most undervalued skills in the workplace.

Your communication style can either elevate your professional brand—or make you invisible. At this year’s conference, Alexandra will dive even deeper into this topic during her session Dynamic Professional Presence: Elevating Your Impact Across Every Workspace.

3. Build Career Resilience Through Upskilling

With five generations now in the workforce and job expectations constantly shifting, assistants must stay curious and proactive.

The most in-demand skills today, according to Robert Half’s research?

• Written and verbal communication

• Digital fluency (think: Microsoft 365, Teams, Asana, Salesforce)

• Adaptability and versatility

• Project management basics

• Personal branding

Alexandra recommends that you update your resume and LinkedIn profile every six months and to keep a running list of your accomplishments and projects—even if you’re not currently job hunting.

4. Seek Out Mentorship—Both Traditional and Reverse

One of the most refreshing pieces of advice from the webinar was the idea of reverse mentorship—learning from younger professionals who may be more tech-savvy or offer fresh perspectives.

Alexandra and Kim both credit younger colleagues and recent grads with helping them discover new tools and trends.

Want to know what else sets high-achieving assistants apart? They don’t wait to be told what to do—they ask, volunteer, and initiate.

5. Use Curiosity as a Career Strategy

Alexandra and Kim both agree: curiosity is your competitive edge.

If you have downtime in your current role, don’t sit quietly—ask your manager how you can contribute more. Whether it’s offering to help with a new project, learning a new software tool, or streamlining a process, your willingness to grow speaks volumes.

And when you combine curiosity with visibility, you start to position yourself as a strategic partner—not just a task-taker.

Why Meet Alexandra at This Year’s Conference?

You can read about leadership all day—but there’s nothing quite like learning face-to-face from the experts.

At the 2025 Conference for Administrative Excellence, you’ll have the opportunity to attend Alexandra’s session, meet her during the Career Coaching Corner, and receive tailored career advice that could shape your next move and future-proof your administrative career.

She’ll be joined by other powerful voices in the profession—including Joan Burge, Peggy Vasquez, William Arruda, and more—at Red Rock Resort in Las Vegas. From dynamic keynotes to immersive learning and the unforgettable Joan Burge Gala, this is more than a conference—it’s a launchpad for your next level.

Ready to Elevate Your Career?

Join Alexandra—and hundreds of ambitious administrative professionals—at this year’s Conference for Administrative Excellence, October 14–17, 2025. Whether you’re looking to grow your confidence, master your communication, or make meaningful career moves, this is your moment.

Register today at OfficeDynamicsConference.com

Let’s hear from you:

What’s one skill you’re focused on developing this year? Drop a comment in our Assistant Exchange Facebook Group—we’d love to know what you’re working on!