If you’re currently wondering what route to go down, whether you’re a graduate looking for their first role or you’re already an established professional looking to utilise their skillset, have you considered being a personal assistant? This job requires a combination of factors to be considered, but is a rewarding career.
Typically, to become a personal assistant you will have to have an education, and have certain traits and skills already such as organisation and interpersonal skills. In this blog post we will be discussing the steps you can take in order to become a PA.
Educational background
If you want to become a personal assistant, there are a few routes you could go down. The first is the academic route, which involves studying for the qualifications that employers look for. GCSES in maths and english is important, as well as having A Levels too, preferably in business administration.
Have these essential skills
Showing you have the following skills is important when interviewing to become a personal assistant. As a PA you need a range of skills to succeed. These include:
- Excellent organisational skills
- Communication skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Attention to detail
- Time management skills
- Able to take initiative
- Work well under pressure
- Proficiency in office softwares such as Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, etc.
- The ability to maintain confidentiality.
Gain experience
Another way to break into the PA industry is to gain administrative experience and work your way up to becoming a personal assistant. Work experience is valued very highly in the job market today, many employers look for candidates with some real world experience, so applying for secretarial and admin roles is a great way to get a head start. Becoming a receptionist, admin assistant, or office clerk is a great place to start your journey to becoming a PA.
You should also look for opportunities to develop skills in scheduling, managing calendars, handling phone calls, and maintaining files and records, as these are great skills to learn and add to your CV.
Start networking
Building a professional network can work out in your favour for many industries, including the world of personal assistants. By building your network, you can potentially find some personal assistant opportunities that you may not have found before. Attending industry events and joining professional organisations is a great way to connect with professionals who may be looking to employ some personal assistant.
LinkedIn is a great social platform to begin growing your network and joining in on industry related discussion. This gives employers a chance to find you as well.
Go to a recruitment agency
There are certain recruitment agencies that specialise in PA and secretarial roles. These companies can help match you with a PA job suited to you. So if you’re really struggling to break into the industry on your own, you can go to professionals who will help you achieve your goal of becoming a successful personal assistant.