Career Development & Training

The myths – and reality – of references

Kate Hilpern opens your eyes to the most common misconceptions about references from past employers and offers advice on how to avoid a damaging appraisal

PA profile: Grace Opeyokun

Grace Opeyokun, 31, thought working as an admin assistant at hairdressers’ Trevor Sorbie was simply something to tide her over. Nine years later, she’s now PA to the boss

All in a good cause

What springs to mind when you think of charity work? Volunteers giving up their time for free? For many PAs, its becoming a sound, and very rewarding, career choice, as Kate Hilpern reports

The secret of success at work

Getting ahead and being noticed at work is easier than you might think. With a few simple rules and advice, the key to success will be in your hands

Will your CV get you that interview?

To give yourself the best shot at getting an interview for that new, dream job, you need to make sure your CV is up to scratch. Kate Hilpern speaks to the experts

Stand up and get trained

On 6 April, many PAs will get a legal right to request training. But what sort of course should you be taking and how will you persuade your boss to let you take it?

Four’s a crowd

With half of all PAs now working for four (or more!) bosses, juggling their demands and your workload can be a difficult balancing act

Take a letter...Mr Jones

The number of male PAs is on the increase, but what attracts men to what was once regarded as a female-only job?

Build smart documents

Learn how to use the new content controls and smart document elements in Microsoft Word 2007

Status update

Most people view social networks as a lighthearted and fun way of keeping in touch with friends. But what impact do your posts have on career development?

How to... Interview

PAs are often called upon to conduct interviews, but don’t underestimate the importance of proper training – otherwise you may end up with someone unsuitable.

Rural vs City

Not all PAs work for high powered, huge company bosses in the city. The PA role is possibly one of the most diverse jobs out there. Executary News explores the pros and cons of the PA role in totally different walks of life.

My working day…

For Donna Coulling, 41, juggling the demands of a handful of celebrities including Helena Bonham Carter, Rachel Weisz and Sir Derek Jacobi means there’s no such thing as an average day

How to...Organise your boss

A productive relationship between a PA and their boss is a must, but organising someone more senior can be challenging

Power to you

Delegation doesn’t have to mean the whole office turning against you; it can develop your team and allow you to maintain high standards