Are Today’s Demands on Assistants Impossible to Meet?

Administrative_Assistant_Conference

Administrative_Assistant_Conference

In today’s busy workplace, it’s easy to get into a slump. With so much coming at you on any given day, it can feel practically impossible to keep up. So today, we’re addressing this simple question: Have expectations for assistants become unrealistic?

Go on, think about what you’re attempting to do on a daily basis:
Manage an overflowing email inbox

  • Execute a growing list of tasks and projects
  • Oversee a complex calendaring system for others
  • Handle endless requests from a demanding executive (or many!)
  • Ensure your executive(s) stays on point and focused
  • Navigate office politics and workplace relationships
  • Utilize new and complicated technology
  • Respond seamlessly to constant change
  • Present a poised and polished image

And that’s just the beginning!

Looking at this list, one might easily think the standard is impossible. After all, you’re only one person and you only have a limited number of hours to devote to the job. Most of us have families and lives to attend to outside of the workplace.

But these exceptionally high standards have become the norm. That’s because the pace of work itself has increased across the board. Everyone is stretched to keep up, from assistants to the executives they support.

The standard might seem impossible on the surface, but these days, it’s what’s expected.

So, the question we should be asking isn’t about whether or not it’s possible, it’s about how to make it possible.

As an assistant, we know you have a lot on your plate. But you also have more power than you think. You can—and should—be an active part of the expectation-setting process.

To paraphrase a famous quote, you can do everything—just not all at once.

Today’s accelerated workplace requires a new set of skills. It’s not enough to simply work hard and let the chips fall where they may. You have to step up to the challenge and become more effective, not just more efficient. You have to help guide the ship.

At times, that might mean negotiating deadlines and explaining priorities. At other times, it might mean delegating to others. You have tools at your disposal, but many of those tools are not the same ones you’ve used in the past.

This heightened expectation placed on assistants is the inspiration for this year’s Conference for Administrative Excellence. Here at Office Dynamics, we believe excellence is still possible, even in the face of increasing demands. In order to adapt to this new world in which we operate, you have to become The Accelerated Assistant.

We can’t wait to share the exciting, new strategies you need to be successful in the modern workplace. Our agenda is truly groundbreaking. We’re going deeper than ever before, and we’re confronting the reality of life as an assistant.

If you’ve ever felt like this new workplace standard is impossible, you’re not alone. Stop simply surviving and start thriving. When you become The Accelerated Assistant, you find that anything is possible.

Learn more at our 2017 Conference in Las Vegas!

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Office Dynamics International
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Priscilla Pfeiffer

Priscilla Pfeiffer

Speaker | Entertainer | Trainer | TEDx Speaker

You Don’t Matter, Or Do You?

In today’s fast-paced business world, the role of administrative and executive assistants is more crucial than ever in driving innovation and positive change within organizations. However, a common pitfall is that many organizations dive headfirst into radical change without first understanding the heart of the people responsible for implementing it. This dynamic keynote, which includes mesmerizing entertainment elements, will shine a light on the transformative power of seemingly insignificant actions, inspiring you to take the first step towards positioning yourself as a key catalyst to SPARK success.

In this session, you will…

  • Discover how small, intentional actions can have a ripple effect. 
  • Gain strategies for positioning yourself for success within your teams and organizations.
  • Feel empowered to become a catalyst for positive change within your respective spheres, without the burnout.
  • Be inspired to initiate bold actions that can lead to significant personal and professional growth.

Priscilla Pfeiffer, a seasoned professional, boasts a two-decade career in entertainment and business. Her unique show business background allows her to craft mesmerizing performances, leaving enduring memories. Focused on delivering resonant and empowering messages that inspire audiences to make an impact in the world, she illuminates individuals to unlock their full potential in both personal and professional lives.

Renowned for creating “wow factor” moments, Priscilla has an esteemed clientele, including brands like BMW, LinkedIn, iHeart Radio, Michael Jordan’s Air Jordans, Pfizer, Bacardi, Cosmo Latina Magazine, and Zappos. Her impressive credits include sharing the stage with Joan Jett, Will-i-am, Pitbull, Enrique Iglesias, and Marc Anthony, as well as performances on America’s Got Talent, The Latin Grammy Awards, The NHL Awards, Comic Relief, and Celebrity Cruises. Priscilla has also graced the prestigious TEDx stage, where she delivered a compelling talk that resonated with audiences, showcasing her ability to captivate and inspire on a global platform.

In addition, Priscilla hosts the podcast “Spark Your Inner Fire” which delves into the creative mind, torching the inner critic, and reigniting purpose. Through interviews with world-renowned creatives, she shares stories and wisdom, illuminating listeners on their journeys.

In essence, Priscilla Pfeiffer is not only a veteran but a trailblazer whose performances consistently inspire, motivate, and create lasting impressions.