Advice Archives - The Officials

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Simple Gamification to Beat Task Paralysis and Tackle Overwhelm

Staring at an overwhelming to-do list or a packed inbox, feeling completely stuck has happened to all of us. The task feels too big, too endless, and too impossible to start. That frozen, paralyzed state is what’s often called task paralysis, and it’s a common struggle for busy professionals.

The good news? You don’t need a complex system or a fancy productivity app to break through it. Sometimes the simplest tricks can be the most effective, especially when they use gamification to spark action.

Why Gamification Helps Break Task Paralysis

Gamification is simply the act of adding game-like elements to non-game tasks including:
✔️ clear rules,
✔️ progress markers,
✔️ rewards.

When a task feels overwhelming, your brain often can’t see the path forward. Gamification creates structure and momentum by giving your brain something it craves: small wins.

The beauty of this approach is that it doesn’t have to be elaborate. In fact, simple gamification works best because it removes overthinking and gets you moving quickly.

A Real-World Example: The “Sets of Five” Email Hack

One small but powerful gamification trick I use is when I’m faced with an overflowing inbox. Rather than trying to tackle everything at once, I break the job down and only work on 5 emails at a time.

I grab my notebook and I write the number of emails I have down in batchese of five. If I have 54 emails then I would write the 54, 50, 45, 40, 35, 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 5, 0 in a grid (see image).

Once I clear five, I cross off the number and move on to the next set. This simple action transforms an overwhelming, open-ended task into a clear, achievable challenge. This helps me visually see my progress and then I want to solve the simple game and get to zero.

Why Simple Gamification Works

It Reduces Overwhelm
Breaking a large task into smaller steps makes it easier to start and less intimidating.

It Delivers Quick Wins
Every crossed-off number or completed step releases dopamine, giving your brain a sense of achievement that motivates you to keep going.

It Turns Tasks Into Games
The repetitive structure (clear five, cross off, repeat) helps your brain focus on “what’s next” rather than “how much is left.”

It Builds Momentum
Once you’ve crossed off the first few milestones, it’s much easier to keep moving. That forward motion is often all you need to break free from paralysis.

You Don’t Have to Overthink It

The best part? Gamification doesn’t need to be complicated. You don’t need apps, charts, or reward systems. Simple, visual, and tangible tricks like writing numbers on paper or setting mini-targets can be enough to shake you out of feeling stuck.

Try It for Yourself

Next time you’re staring down an overwhelming task whether it’s a packed inbox, a cluttered project, or a long list of admin jobs you can experiment with a small dose of gamification:

Break the task into bite-sized, countable chunks.
Track your progress visually.
Celebrate each small win.

You might be surprised how quickly the momentum builds, and how something so simple can clear the mental fog and help you move forward.

Interested in more tips to make you job easier? Why not sign up for The Officials Dossier newsletter?

A woman in a blue suit at work on an old fashioned computer. His twin is in red pajamas standing behind him looking worried.

The Work is Mysterious, The Work is Important: Lessons from Severance for the Devoted Assistant

The Sacred Order of Work

The world has gazed upon Severance, the acclaimed series that unearths some dark themes about working life with reverent precision. At Lumon Industries, the severance procedure is a surgical process that splits a person’s mind in two, creating a “work self,” also know as an innie, that only exists at the office and a “home self”, also known as an outie, that has no memory of work. The procedure effectively splits one’s mind to provide a perfect harmony: an innie who knows only duty, an outie who remains unburdened. No overlap, no discord. A clean and perfect division.

For assistants, this vision may feel eerily familiar. In service to their leads, they too are expected to uphold a partition between self and duty, embodying professionalism while concealing the storms beneath. What, then, can the devoted assistant learn from the ways of Lumon?

The Lumon Handbook reveals all.

The following article is an imagining of what the sacred words of Kier, the cult-like founder of Lumon, might have written in the Lumon handbook and alternatively what lessons can we, the non-severed, learn from them.

Two Selves, One Duty: The Sanctity of Division

“The devoted worker leaves themselves behind. The self is a burden; the work is purity. Within these walls, you are unshackled from the chaos of personal existence. The self outside is not your concern. The self inside is blessed with duty.”

And yet, we know that the line is never truly clean. Just as in the show, parts of our work and personal life often appear and interrupt.

An assistant might wears two faces: the one that belongs to the world and the one crafted for the office. They guard their executive’s time, their reputation, their very ability to function. But what of the self? Where does the assistant end and the role begin? We are told to maintain balance, but sometimes the role consumes as much as it is permitted to take.

Sometimes duty doesn’t stop as you step out of the office. Not only does one have responsibilities to take care of oneself, but if they have a family, home, pet, or partner they walk right into another set of duties. Constantly thinking and doing for others and one can be left feeling their time is not their own.

While Lumon is trying to create the ultimate boundary, like in the show, the reality is that work and personal life sometimes bleed into each other. And boundaries are absolutely important but at times flexibility is needed. The key is not losing oneself and making sure downtime is protected. A time where your mind can wander and relax.

The Smiling Sentinel: She Who Must Endure

“To serve is to present the best of all things. The devoted must remain composed, must endure, must soothe the fears of those they serve. A smile is the shield against disruption. A composed voice is a weapon against chaos. To show strain is to fail.”

Observe Natalie, devoted steward of Lumon’s will – fyi she’s the assistant to the board. Her presence is required in all great moments, from grand announcements to corporate crises. She bears the news. She smooths the edges. She does not waver.

The assistant, too, is often expected to perfect this art. To remain serene in the face of calamity. To filter the chaos before it reaches the executive team. To absorb pressure without showing the strain. The work world demands their patience, their adaptability, their unflinching poise. As the Lumon handbook states, “What is stress but the shadow of a lesser mind? The devoted endure.” But even the most devoted have their limits.

In Mr. Milchik’s office, there is a small painting of a glacier. Beautiful and calm, but no one quite sees the depths of the work. What lies beneath the surface that no one can see?

At The Officials, we teach admins how to appropriately make the invisible work visible. It’s important that this illusion be illuminated and those around them are educated on the true value of the role. It can be found that many can describe the responsibilities of the role but not the true business case for how that role helps further the mission. Admins and assistants consistently look upwards for guidance and recognition and come away wanting.

Administrative professionals know that one request require a series of actions often not considered by others combined with an extensive mental handbook they have been building that records every personal preference of those they support, the minutia of every step of a request, deep knowledge of the tools at their fingertips to deliver these requests, and a constantly changing prioritization protocol.

Finding ways to articulate not only the value of the role but the deep work behind it is a skill and an essential element of professional and personal growth for administrative professionals.

The Illusion of Choice: When You Serve But Do Not Decide

“The devoted worker is free to choose within the boundaries of their service. Choice is a gift, bestowed only in the ways that serve the greater good. To step beyond this is to err. To question is to misunderstand,” so states the handbook.

Severed workers are “free” within Lumon’s walls. They may walk, speak, think—within prescribed parameters. They make choices, but only the choices permitted to them.

Assistants may come across this unwritten rule at work. They manage schedules, execute decisions, craft responses. But whose decisions are they, truly? The assistant operates as the hand of another, shaping reality on their behalf. And yet, in moments of crisis, when no guidance is given, the assistant must decide. A delicate dance of autonomy and servitude. To act, yet never overstep. To lead, but never claim leadership. Does the assistant hold power? Or merely the illusion of it?

This too is an illusion, or least it should be. Sadly, admin and assistants often contribute to this narrative as well. Many leads are looking for someone to MANAGE their time, help keep them on track and focused on targets, but this need often gets lost in delivery. While leads wait for admins to manage and direct, the lead can also struggle with how to provide direction to the admin especially when that is why they needed to hire someone in the first place.

In truth, it takes surrender, input and patience on the part of the lead. It takes fortitude, core confidence, creative problem-solving skills, and intelligence for an admin to decide to take charge of this part of their role.

These characteristics require skills that can be learned. In The Officials, we have courses that teach influence for positive and impactful change as well as how to build a strong relationship with a lead that highlights that you are two sides of the same coin, with the same goals, but each have different duties to perform to support the mission.

The Work is Mysterious, The Work is Important

“To question the work is to diminish its purity. The devoted need only know that it matters. They are given tokens of appreciation—a melon slice, a dance, a small trophy—to remind them that all is as it should be.”

The Lumon employees on the severed floor do not know how their work contributes to the company’s goals. They know they are corralling numbers, containing them, but they do not understand what the numbers represent, what they affect, or the value of their work. They are simply told to do it and are rewarded with small perks—finger traps, egg socials, melon bars, five-minute dance experiences.

For those new to the workplace or those who have stayed with one employer for a long time or have walked into a questionable or toxic work culture, this may feel familiar. If one has never been exposed to good workplace culture, these limp carrots seem like real treats rather than hollow incentives meant to keep staff in line.

It is imperative that administrative professionals understand the mission and targets of those they support, ensuring they align with their own values and setting goals accordingly. They must also recognize the services they provide and their value to the company. Only with this clarity can they move beyond mere servitude to become strategic partners, shaping not just the work but their own professional destiny.

This can be started today by simply asking one’s lead what their targets are and then analysing the admin’s own work to determine how their actions and own goals align. The latter part of this task can trip many admins up and again is a skill that can be developed by talking to others in the industry, mentorship, and training.

Conclusion: Reclaiming the Role

Administrative professionals have long been expected to quietly uphold the structure of an organization while asking for little in return. But true success comes not from blind devotion, but from understanding the full scope of our contributions. By seeking clarity about the purpose of our work, setting boundaries to protect our well-being, and making the invisible work visible, we can take control of our careers rather than being subject to the whims of the system.

Assistants are more than just facilitators—they are strategists, problem-solvers, and key decision-makers in their own right. The work is mysterious, yes, but it does not have to be. It is time for assistants to define their own value, take ownership of their roles, and ensure that their contributions are recognized—not just with melon bars and dance breaks, but with real opportunities for growth and leadership.

An assistant in a pink button up shirt. Holding her black rimmed glasses, a pink coffee cup, and her notebook.

The Invisible Work of Pink-Collar Roles: Recognizing the Mental Load of Administrative Professionals

When we think about career classifications, the terms “white-collar” and “blue-collar” are often the first to come to mind. However, there is another crucial category that plays a fundamental role in the workforce—pink-collar jobs. These roles, historically associated with administrative work, caregiving, and service-oriented professions, have been instrumental in shaping industries and businesses worldwide. Among the most essential of these are administrative professionals, the backbone of organizational efficiency and success.

The Invisible Work and Mental Load of Administrative Professionals

Administrative professionals—including executive assistants, office managers, receptionists, and coordinators—take on an immense mental load that often goes unnoticed. Their responsibilities extend beyond logistical tasks; they manage the emotional and operational well-being of their teams, anticipate needs before they arise, and ensure seamless workflows. This unseen labor—the scheduling, the crisis aversion, the remembering of countless details—keeps businesses running smoothly but is rarely acknowledged in workplace meritocracies.

What Are Pink-Collar Roles?

The term “pink-collar” first appeared in the 1960s¹ to describe service-based professions traditionally dominated by women. These jobs often emphasize soft skills such as communication, organization, and relationship management, which are critical to maintaining a well-functioning workplace. Unlike blue-collar jobs (typically manual labor) or white-collar jobs (corporate or managerial roles), pink-collar work often sits at the intersection of operational and interpersonal responsibilities.

The Overlooked Role in Workforce Meritocracies

Despite their significant contributions, administrative professionals are frequently overlooked in merit-based systems that reward quantifiable achievements over unseen, service-oriented work. Many workplaces prioritize revenue-generating roles, leaving administrative professionals without the recognition or career advancement they deserve. Their work is assumed rather than acknowledged, expected rather than rewarded.

In reality, these professionals are essential to business operations, serving as gatekeepers, facilitators, and problem-solvers who ensure that organizations function efficiently. Their ability to multitask, anticipate challenges, and maintain team cohesion is a skill set that should be valued as highly as any other professional expertise.

The Evolution of Pink-Collar Roles

Over the years, pink-collar jobs have evolved to require a diverse and highly specialized skill set. Administrative professionals are no longer just handling clerical tasks; they are leveraging technology, managing high-level projects, and acting as strategic business partners. The digital era has transformed the role, with assistants now mastering tools like CRM systems, project management software, and data analytics platforms.

Why Pink-Collar Work Deserves More Recognition

Essential to Business Success: Without administrative professionals, many organizations would struggle to maintain order, efficiency, and communication.
High Cognitive Load: The ability to balance multiple tasks, anticipate needs, and manage interpersonal dynamics requires immense mental energy.
Undervalued in Traditional Meritocracies: Administrative work is often perceived as “supportive” rather than strategic, leading to fewer opportunities for recognition and career growth.
Career Growth Opportunities: With advancements in automation and digitalization, administrative professionals are taking on more dynamic, leadership-driven responsibilities.
A Changing Perception: More businesses are recognizing the strategic importance of pink-collar roles, leading to greater professional development and career advancement opportunities.

How to Overcome Being Overlooked: The Power of Mentorship

One of the most effective ways to break through the invisibility of pink-collar roles is mentorship. Having a mentor who understands the unique challenges of administrative work can provide guidance, career development strategies, and advocacy in the workplace. Mentorship helps professionals:

Gain confidence in asserting their value.
Develop leadership and strategic skills.
Navigate workplace challenges and advocate for their contributions.
Build a network that recognizes and appreciates their expertise.

Final Thoughts

Administrative professionals are the unsung heroes of the modern workplace. Their invisible work, mental load, and problem-solving abilities are crucial to organizational success, yet they often remain unrecognized in workplace meritocracies. By acknowledging their contributions, advocating for their professional growth, and fostering mentorship opportunities, we can ensure that pink-collar professionals receive the respect, resources, and opportunities they truly deserve.

If you’re ready to overcome being overlooked, seek out a mentor who can guide and champion your professional journey. The more we support and elevate administrative professionals, the more we create workplaces that truly value the critical work they do.

An image of a trainer standing in front of a full room of attendees at the PA Show. The administrative professionals in the crowd are listening attentively as the trainer talks behind a clear podium.

Growth Opportunity Trends Spotted at the Spring PA Show 2025

Want to stay ahead of the curve in the administrative profession? At the Spring PA Show 2025, Lauren Bradley, founder of The Officials, uncovered key trends shaping the future of executive support roles. From career growth challenges to the rising demand for digital skills and workplace flexibility, these insights are essential for assistants looking to thrive. Watch the video to discover the biggest growth opportunities in the industry that we saw at the show.

Transcript below

Speaker: Lauren Bradley

[00:00:06] So it is Monday after the PA Show Spring 2025, which we have here in London every year. And I wanted to come on here and one, thank a few people and two, talk about the trends that we saw this year, except in the last couple of years.

[00:00:18] One, thank you so much for the wonderful, wonderful Officials Team for being on the stand.

[00:00:26] And then an extra thank you to Paul, Isabelle, Susanna and Dee, who were all panelists on one of our sessions that we did about the importance of engaging with community in the administrative field. And what was incredible was in that panel, somebody actually raised their hand and said, I’m ready and said, I want to engage.

[00:00:47] Uh, but she was moving to Germany and just a few months and right away we were able to connect her with some amazing connections in Germany and advocates there. And it basically just proved the point. And if it wasn’t for you all being on that panel and sharing your experiences and inspiring those in that room, that wouldn’t have happened.

[00:01:05] So we had a real life example of why that’s so important right there in the moment. It was fantastic.

[00:01:12] And just to say , Marta, who is my right hand here at The Officials, thank you, thank you, thank you for all of your support, for everything that you do. Um, I cannot thank you enough.

[00:01:23] the second set of thank yous I have is to all of the attendees, anyone that attended any of the six sessions over the two days or came up to us on the stand. There were so many that engaged, that were vulnerable, that told their story, and I really appreciate that. I love hearing your stories.

[00:01:41] It’s, I said this to several people is addicting. It’s like a drug. I cannot thank

[00:01:45] you enough. I love problem solving. I love hearing what’s out there. And I love one of her original questions as well. It helps me create more content for all of you, to share with all of you. But I just wanted to thank you for seeing us on the stand.

[00:01:58] My voice is coming back. So that shows how many people we’re speaking with, but it was wonderful. Thank you for attending. Thank you for engaging. Thank you for being there.

[00:02:07] Okay, so let’s talk about some trends that we saw at the PA Show. So I’ve made a couple of notes, but let’s talk through it. So one is that, uh, not, well, not everyone felt this way.

[00:02:20] There was this sort of theme where people, they’re gravitating to the officials or coming up to me after the, the sessions, it was because

[00:02:27] they felt in general stuck. So it’s not that everyone’s feeling stuck, but there are quite a few assistants feeling stuck right now that are looking for some extra help.

[00:02:36] Now there’s a couple of reasons why they might have been feeling stuck. One of the biggest trends we always see and we are continuing to see is that they feel stuck.

[00:02:44] because they’re not being heard at work. And so whether they are not using the correct language, whether they are in the wrong place, but they are trying to prove their value constantly and they’re getting bummed out because it’s not being heard or they’re not progressing as they wish when something’s happening, feel completely stuck.

[00:03:06] The other reason why they might feel stuck is because maybe they have been heard and the company really loves them and compliments them, but they’ve basically been told you’re at the top. This is, this is all the growth possibility there are, there is at this company. Now one, that could be a short sightedness on the part of the company or two, it could be they’re telling you exactly who they are, whether they say, believe people and they tell you who they are.

[00:03:31] They’re telling you, you’ve outgrown the company. So maybe it’s time to start believing them. So those are some of the things we’ve seen about people feeling stuck.

[00:03:39] The other is, uh, when they’re applying for roles. So maybe being a top assistant, being great, their company, their company loves them, but they feel it’s time to move on and they’re applying for lots of roles.

[00:03:51] And nothing’s happening. And so there’s some really quick tips we were able to give people there, but it shows again and again that understanding the value bring to the role and how to create a CV that gets past the application tracking systems and then hooks people when they actually human eyes see it is essential.

[00:04:10] I find that a lot of the mentorship that we do here, the officials is on that particular subject and I will continue to drill this home. So if there’s someone in that space, we got to talk. Okay? So then feeling her job description, career progression.

[00:04:26] There were also a lot of talks, just not necessarily whether their company heard them or not heard them, but people talking about being in this place where some kind of transition needs to happen now, whether it’s they need to make more money or they’re looking to move out of the PA/EA admin role in general.

[00:04:46] And so there’s a lot of questions around that and how I feel that the skills here can transition. Now, while I think “that’s great.” I want everyone to be successful in wherever they feel pulled.

[00:04:55] In fact, while we were at the PA Show, I met the former head of communications for the F1 and she was a former assistant. I can’t wait to talk to her further and see if I can get some more details from her. She’s now trains in communication, but, uh, she was fascinating.

[00:05:10] But of course there’s ways that we can progress. Okay. I progressed to founder, right? And so, it really depends on what that looks like, but also I want to make it really, really clear, because it’s something I’ve been hearing lately, uh, too many times lately, is that, is asking about this, well, you know, I think I’m done with this profession, because there’s nowhere else to go, there’s this ceiling, is that I think that is BS, when I explain that to people, they don’t realize what is available to them. We don’t necessarily have to change our title. We might just be adding more responsibilities. You might become the lead of a network of assistants or department of assistants.

[00:05:52] It could be that you move into supporting someone more senior. So that was like a trend that I kept hearing as well. Like I can only move up if who I support is higher up and that’s definitely not the case. It is one trajectory, but it’s not the only path. And so I found myself making sure that before somebody left our profession, that they understood where they could go with our profession.

[00:06:16] There’s definitely a technology trend still where a lot of assistants are still very Microsoft based and also very frustrated with the task tracking tools within Microsoft and are very unaware of the alternative technology that is outside of that ecosystem and how that prevents them from applying for jobs in maybe a Google based environment with a different tech stack.

[00:06:40] And so we find we’re doing a lot of work in that space as well.

[00:06:44] But were you at the PA Show? What trends did you see? What sessions really stood out to you, who you talked to? I would love to hear if you, if you were there, please let me know your thoughts on the PA Show.

[00:06:54] But thank you again for another fantastic year and to the MashMedia team for putting it [00:07:00] on and we can’t wait to come back next year.

We’d love to know what you think. Pop your comment below or email us at hello@jointheofficials.com to learn more about our HQ Membership, Mentorship and Corporate Training services.

4 women in neutral tones crowded around a laptop in an office. They are assistants working together.

Redefining the Admin Role: How Assistants Can Elevate Their Profession and Drive Industry Change

Let’s explore one of the biggest trends in the admin industry—an issue that is holding many professionals back. Despite their essential roles, administrative professionals often struggle to gain the recognition they deserve, leading to missed opportunities for growth and development. By addressing this trend, we can better understand the importance of valuing and empowering administrative staff to enhance their impact within organizations.

The solution? Admins themselves must take ownership of their value and communicate it effectively. When more administrative professionals learn to articulate their worth in business terms, they not only elevate their own careers but also create a lasting ripple effect that transforms the industry as a whole.

The Problem: Why the Admin Role is Undervalued

Lack of Visibility – Many administrative tasks happen behind the scenes, making it difficult for executives and colleagues to fully grasp their impact. If work isn’t directly tied to revenue generation, it’s often seen as a “nice-to-have” rather than an essential function.

Leaders Struggle to Define Admin Value – Executives are experts in justifying their own value, but they often lack the language or perspective to advocate for administrative professionals. Without clear articulation, admins risk being undervalued, underpaid, or overlooked for advancement.

Admins Aren’t Trained to Speak in Business Terms – Administrative professionals aren’t typically taught how to frame their responsibilities in terms of business outcomes, such as efficiency, cost savings, retention, or profitability. Without this skill, their work is often described in vague or task-based terms, making it harder to justify raises, promotions, and respect.

The Industry-Wide Impact – If admins don’t take control of the narrative around their roles, the industry as a whole will continue to face challenges in recognition, compensation, and career progression.

Why Admins Must Take the Lead in Changing the Narrative

Career Advancement – When you can clearly define your impact in business terms, you increase your chances of earning promotions, pay raises, and new job opportunities.

Professional Confidence – Understanding your value gives you the confidence to advocate for yourself in performance reviews, interviews, and networking situations.

Industry-Wide Change – When a critical mass of administrative professionals begins speaking in value-driven terms, companies will start hiring, compensating, and promoting assistants differently.

Improved Leadership Relations – Executives and managers will develop a clearer understanding of an admin’s strategic role, leading to stronger working relationships and greater professional respect.

The Framework: How to Define & Communicate Your Value

Shifting the way you talk about your role starts with a strategic approach. Instead of listing tasks, administrative professionals need to present their work in a way that demonstrates its impact on the business. Here’s how:

Step 1: Adopt a Business Mindset

Think of yourself as a consultant within your company. Consultants don’t just complete tasks—they solve business problems and drive efficiency. By viewing yourself in this way, you gain more control over how you position yourself and the work you do.

One of the biggest mindset shifts is realizing that you have a say in what services you provide. Defining the scope of your role helps you set professional boundaries, preventing burnout and ensuring that your work aligns with business goals.

Step 2: Identify & Define Your Services

Start by reviewing your job description and breaking it down into distinct services. Many job ads now categorize responsibilities by service area—something you can use to your advantage when refining your own role.

For example, consider this job listing:

“Managing executive calendars and correspondence with key stakeholders.”
“Booking travel, managing expenses, and handling event logistics.”

These broad responsibilities can be categorized as:

Calendar & Email Management
Travel & Expense Management
Event Planning & Coordination

Instead of listing tasks, describe these as services that add value to the company.

Step 3: Use the Value-Based Formula

To effectively communicate your impact, use this simple formula:

What you do + Who you do it for + The business value it brings

Instead of saying, “Manage executive calendars and scheduling,” you can frame it as:

“Optimize executive schedules to maximize productivity, minimize conflicts, and ensure seamless coordination with key stakeholders—driving efficiency and strategic decision-making.”

This approach helps shift the perception of administrative work from task-based to strategic.

Turning Individual Action into Industry-Wide Change

When individual administrative professionals start articulating their value more effectively, it creates a ripple effect across the industry. Here’s how:

Improve Your Resume & Job Applications

If every assistant started presenting their responsibilities as business-driven services, hiring managers would begin to expect—and respect—this language. Use your resume and LinkedIn profile to reinforce this shift. Clearly articulate how your work supports business goals, rather than listing generic admin duties.

Transform Performance Reviews

Many assistants dread performance reviews because they rely on their executives to recognize their contributions. Instead of hoping for acknowledgment, prepare a case for your value. Present your achievements in a way that ties them directly to company success. For example:

❌ “Organized team events throughout the year.”
✅ “Planned and executed team events that improved employee engagement, reduced turnover, and strengthened cross-functional collaboration.”

This framing makes it clear that your work has a measurable business impact.

Encourage Corporate Training Programs

Companies that invest in admin training programs often see improved retention and efficiency. If your organization has multiple admins, advocating for professional development opportunities (like those offered by The Officials) can create a company-wide shift in how admins are perceived and valued.

Resources & Tools to Help You

Regularly Review Job Listings & Admin Profiles

More companies are now structuring job descriptions by breaking down responsibilities into clearly defined services. Reviewing these postings can help you refine how you describe your own work.

Optimize Your Job Description: Look for patterns in job ads to improve the way you frame your role on your resume, LinkedIn, and performance reviews.
Benchmark Against Other Admins: Review how other assistants describe their roles to strengthen your own positioning.

Leverage AI for Better Value Articulation

AI tools like ChatGPT can help you:

Refine your job descriptions
Reword responsibilities into value-driven statements
Identify key business benefits of your services

Additional Resources

Lynn Walder’s Title Recalibration Initiative – Full of structured and highly detailed job description documents for administrative professionals, this resource can help you identify services in your role and wording to help define them and the all important value.
The Officials Goal Setting and Performance Review Course – Led by the talented Jillian Huffnagel, this course is the perfect resource to help you better articulate your value.
The Officials Mentorship Programs – If you feel you need some one-on-one help to define your services whether you are updating your resume/CV or preparing for a performance review, then our mentorship program is just the thing.

Conclusion

Change starts with individual action—when administrative professionals redefine their own roles, the entire industry benefits. By learning to articulate your impact, you elevate your own career while paving the way for future generations of administrative professionals.

A futuristic robot assistant in a green leafy forrest.

The Wild Robot’s Unexpected Lessons for Assistants on the importance of overwriting your original programming

I recently watched The Wild Robot and was surprised at the themes that jumped out at me. As an assistant (whose job is to complete tasks) and a mother, I found myself reflecting on how Roz’s journey parallels the experiences of many assistants, women, and mothers. The more I thought about it, the more I saw how her story speaks to the hidden, often undervalued labor that so many of us perform every day.

Roz, a robot designed to follow orders and complete tasks efficiently, finds herself stranded in the wild with no instructions, no clear path forward, and no immediate purpose—until she is thrust into the role of caretaker. When she adopts the orphaned gosling, Brightbill, she does not immediately know what to do. She tries to feed him, but the process is far from straightforward. She has to research, experiment, fail, and try again until she gets it right. This mirrors the experience of many assistants, who are often expected to “just figure it out” when thrown into new challenges without training or guidance. We learn through trial and error, innovating out of necessity because someone is relying on us.

Motherhood, too, is full of these moments of improvisation. At one point, Pinktail the opossum mother with 7 babies of her own tells Roz, “No one knows what they are doing. We just make it up.” This line resonated deeply with me. Like assistants and caregivers, Roz is not given a manual for how to nurture, teach, and protect Brightbill—she has to learn on the go, much like so many of us do in our professional and personal lives.

Throughout the film, Roz’s approach to problem-solving evolves. She cannot simply show Brightbill how to fly or swim; she must help him through repeated efforts, enlisting the guidance of others and adapting her strategies along the way. Many creatures, like Pinktail, offer guidance showcasing the power of leaning on community for help. Later Roz meets Longneck, the old veteran leader of the flock of geese on the island. He agrees to help Brightbill learn to migrate and later helps the young gosling to attain a leadership position in the flock. Without the help of Pinktail and Longneck, and many others, the task would have been much harder and potentially near impossible highlighting the importance of collaborating with community and experts to be successful.

Another striking moment comes when Roz meets another robot, Rummage, who runs a diagnostic and declares her “defective” for having overridden her original programming. Roz admits, “I have been overwriting my code for months. It was the only way to complete my task.” This moment highlights the expectation that assistants (and women, in many cases) should function transactionally—completing tasks without evolving, strategizing, or becoming innovators. Roz, like many of us, learns that real success requires adaptability and self-reinvention. She has changed permanently—not because she was broken, but because she learned and grew from experience.

The film also highlights the unseen labor of caretakers when Roz rescues the entire forest from a deadly blizzard. Predators and prey, once divided, huddle together under her protection. Even those who once mistreated or distrusted her recognize that she has sacrificed and even damaged herself to save them. This mirrors how assistants and caregivers often go unappreciated until a crisis reveals just how essential they truly are.

Perhaps the most profound lesson of The Wild Robot is that survival is not just about endurance—it is about adaptation, connection, and innovation. Roz, initially programmed to follow orders, learns to lead, nurture, and strategize. In doing so, she evolves to meet the challenges that face her and her community and her growth benefits the community-at-large.

Assistants, like Roz, are often expected to function like machines—efficient, predictable, and self-sufficient. But in reality, our greatest strength is our ability to adapt, to learn from experience, to collaborate, and to find creative solutions when there is no clear roadmap. Just like Roz, we are more than our original programming. We are innovators, problem-solvers, and leaders in our own right.

Have you seen the film? Read the books? Share your thoughts below.

To assistants reaching out and touching fingers to show connection. One has colourful tattoos on her arm and fun polka dot nails.

Finding Your Community: Why Engaging with Other Administrative Professionals is a Game Changer

Being an administrative professional can sometimes feel isolating. Even if you work with other assistants, there’s often an unspoken expectation that you must always have everything under control. You’re the go-to problem solver, the steady hand behind the scenes—but who supports you? There can be a stigma around admitting you need help, that you have tough days, or that you’re feeling stuck in your role. The pressure to always be on top of everything can be overwhelming, but here’s the truth: You’re not alone, and you don’t have to do it alone.

The Power of Connection

The antidote to feeling isolated is simple—connect with others who understand your world. If you don’t yet feel comfortable seeking out other administrative professionals within your own company (or if you’re the only one in your office), there are incredible resources available beyond your workplace.

There is an entire community of assistants out there who share your challenges, triumphs, and insider knowledge. Engaging with this larger network can be transformative, giving you access to advice, industry insights, and the camaraderie of people who truly understand your role.

Finding and Building a Community

I know firsthand how valuable community can be. When I moved to New York City for an exciting new job, I quickly realized that despite working in a major business hub, I felt professionally isolated. I had built my career in London, and my network was primarily based there. I remember standing on Madison Avenue, looking up at the towering skyscrapers, and thinking about how many other assistants were working behind those windows—people who shared my experiences and could offer insight, guidance, and friendship.

But I couldn’t find the kind of community I was looking for. I needed something that fit my lifestyle—something flexible, online, and welcoming. I had a baby to get home to after work, so in-person networking wasn’t always an option. When I couldn’t find the kind of supportive, accessible space I needed, I created it. That’s how The Officials was born.

I built this community because I needed it, and over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how impactful it can be to connect with peers. Whether it’s getting advice, learning about trusted suppliers, or simply sharing frustrations and wins, there’s real power in shared knowledge. No one at my company truly understood the nuances of my role, but my fellow assistants did. That’s why The Officials has become my life’s work—because when we come together, we all rise.

The Impact of Community

The validation and comfort that comes from talking to peers is hard to describe until you experience it. When you engage with a supportive group of assistants, the weight of being the office problem-solver feels lighter. You feel invigorated and more excited about your career. Seeing how others navigate challenges or simply getting a recommended vendor from a trusted peer can make all the difference. Your job becomes easier, and your shoulders feel lighter.

You Get What You Put In

One of the most important things I’ve learned is that community engagement is a two-way street. You will get out of it what you put in. The more you contribute, the more you’ll receive in return. Share your experiences, ask questions, offer support—this is how real connections are formed and how you’ll see the greatest benefits from engaging with others.

Where to Find Your People

If you’re ready to start engaging with the administrative professional community, here are some of our favorite places to connect:

The Officials HQ Membership – Our membership is built to provide administrative professionals with resources, mentorship, and an active, engaged community that supports and uplifts one another.
Industry Facebook Groups – There are now lots of administrative professional groups that exist where assistants share advice and job opportunities. We particularly like The State of The Executive Assistant.
LinkedIn – Professional groups dedicated to executive assistants and administrative professionals are great for networking and learning. There are also tons of advocates that are worth following
Local and Virtual Meetups – Many organizations host events specifically for administrative professionals. If in-person events don’t work for you, online meetups can be just as valuable. If you are in NYC we highly recommend EAs to the Rescue.
YouTube – Many administrative professionals and industry experts share valuable content, from productivity tips to career advice. Following relevant channels can be a great way to learn and stay engaged with the community. One of my all-time favorites on YouTube is Melissa Peoples of Admin Gurus, she offers practical advice from a career admin who is also a Microsoft Specialist.
Podcasts – There is invaluable advice that you can gain from listening to podcast hosted by another admin or assistant. Some of our favorites include Have a Seat… with Debra Coleman, The Whole Assistant with Annie Croner, and The Future Focused Admin with Candice Burningham and Jessica McBride. There are also some great podcasts with those who support our industry including Reach by Maven Recruitment and Assistants Together with Henrietta Barker.
Newsletters – There are plenty of great e-newsletters out there with helpful tips for admins and assistants. We have our own newsletter at The Officials called The Dossier but we can also recommend The Assist for a wide variety of advice.
Local and Virtual Meetups – Attending an admin-centric event can leave you feeling connected, supported and more knowledgeable. Walking into a room surrounded by others that now the highs and lows of this profession is incredibly empowering. My favorite in-person event each year in the UK is the PA Show. I love it so much I am even on the Advisory Board.

If in-person events don’t work for you, online meetups can be just as valuable. This is why we host monthly online events for our HQ Community members.

Did we miss any groups, advocates, or resources that you think should be on this list? Comment below and let us know.

Ready to Connect?

You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re looking for a place to engage, learn, and grow, we’d love for you to join us at The Officials. Our HQ Membership is designed to give administrative professionals like you the support and tools you need to thrive.

Join us today and become part of a community that for assistants by assistants.

Written by Lauren Bradley, Founder of The Officials

A woman in a yellow sweater at a podium. There are 3 women on the stage at The PA Show speaking on a panel.

Why Attending Industry Events Can Be the Key to Unlocking Your Career Potential as an Administrative Professional

As administrative professionals, we often feel like we’re stuck behind the scenes—providing support, managing schedules, and handling details—but rarely in the spotlight. I used to feel the same way. But attending industry events, especially those dedicated to our profession, changed everything for me.

The First Step Towards Connection

I’ll never forget the first time I attended The PA Show as an assistant. Walking into that space at the ExCeL in London, I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement. There I was, surrounded by hundreds of other assistants, all experiencing the same challenges, triumphs, and pressures I knew so well. But more importantly, it was a space where I could finally connect with others who understood my role.

At the time, I was too shy to network with anyone beyond a few vendors. But just being there was a pivotal moment for me—a reminder that there was an entire community out there who shared the same passion for their work, and that my profession mattered. That event sparked something in me, a desire to do more, learn more, and connect more.

A Bold Moment That Changed My Career

Fast forward to one of my last times attending as a delegate. That year, I made a wild decision. While standing in the middle of the event, feeling that familiar buzz of inspiration, I grabbed my phone and went live on Instagram. In that moment, I proclaimed that by the next year, I would be on stage at the event as a speaker.

It might have seemed like a bold, maybe even crazy statement at the time, especially since I had never spoken to any of the organizers of the event. But here’s the thing: I believed it. I believed that attending these events—and showing up with my authentic self—could propel me toward something bigger.

And the best part? One of the organizers reach out to me, without ever seeing my post. I had just come onto their radar through my advocacy and they invited me to speak the very next year.

From Delegate to Advocate: A Career Transformation

That moment was the launchpad for what became an entirely new chapter of my career. The PA Show—along with the connections I made at that event—gave me the platform to start advocating for assistants in a bigger way. By attending, I didn’t just learn from incredible keynote speakers or discover useful resources; I also put myself in a position to be seen, to build a presence, and to make connections that would eventually lead to speaking engagements, opportunities to train, and the privilege of helping so many assistants take their careers to the next level.

The PA Show didn’t just support me as an assistant—it supported me as an advocate, a trainer, and now as someone who gets to pay it forward by helping others grow in their careers, just like mine grew from attending that event.

Unlocking Your Potential

Now, I make it a point to treat every person I meet at events with the same warmth and openness that I needed when I was just starting out. I know how it feels to walk into a room and feel unsure, nervous, or disconnected. That’s why I make it a priority to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable and confident to connect.

Whether you’re an assistant, EA, PA, or office manager, attending industry events is one of the most powerful ways to unlock your career potential. You get the chance to network with people who share your challenges and aspirations, discover new tools and resources that can help you succeed, and most importantly, put yourself in the position to be seen and heard by those who can help you take your career to the next level.

Just like it did for me, an industry event could be the first step in a journey that transforms your career. So, take the leap—attend an event, make that bold post, step into the spotlight, and see where it takes you.

Ready to Take Your Career to the Next Level?

If you’re ready to experience the power of industry events for yourself, don’t wait! Whether you’re looking for inspiration, career advancement, or just a chance to connect with others, attending these events is the first step toward unlocking your true potential.

Learn more and sign up for the next PA Show on 26 and 27 February 2025 and get ready to open the door to new opportunities, just like I did. And check out our events page for more ways to connect.

Top Tech Tools of 2024 for Administrative Professionals

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As administrative professionals, staying ahead often means finding the right tools to supercharge productivity. In our Tech Hack series, we explore some of the best tools for administrative professionals in 2024. Whether you’re creating designs, organizing travel, or managing team projects, these tools are here to save time and simplify your workflow. Here’s our roundup for 2024:

1. Canva: Elevate Your Visual Content

Canva remains a favorite among administrative professionals for its intuitive design interface and expansive library of templates. From crafting polished presentations to creating branded social media graphics, it’s ideal for assistants juggling diverse visual tasks. This year’s updates, including AI-powered design suggestions and enhanced collaboration tools, make Canva even more indispensable.

2. Microsoft Designer: Automate Your Visual Creations

Microsoft Designer is making waves as a robust alternative for those in the Microsoft ecosystem. Seamlessly integrated with Office apps, it combines AI with user-friendly templates for presentations, flyers, and social media. Assistants will appreciate its ability to auto-generate designs from text prompts—perfect for tight deadlines.

3. Scribe & Tango: Documenting Processes with Ease

Documenting workflows and creating guides can be tedious, but Scribe and Tango turn this into a breeze. Both tools generate step-by-step instructions automatically as you perform tasks, complete with screenshots. Scribe excels in creating shareable, polished guides, while Tango shines in capturing real-time processes for internal documentation. These tools are especially helpful for assistants managing onboarding or training.

4. Wanderlog & TripIt: Simplifying Travel Management

Travel planning for executives or teams just got easier. Wanderlog and TripIt are standout tools for organizing itineraries and tracking travel plans. Wanderlog is excellent for creating collaborative travel plans, while TripIt shines with its automatic itinerary syncing and updates.

5. Microsoft Loop: Collaboration Made Smarter

Microsoft Loop revolutionizes teamwork by combining flexible, shareable components across Microsoft 365 apps. Think of it as a hub for project collaboration that integrates seamlessly with Teams, Outlook, and OneNote. Whether you’re brainstorming, sharing updates, or tracking progress, Loop streamlines workflows like never before.

6. Goblin Tools: Perfect for Neurodiverse Admins

Designed with neurodivergent users in mind, Goblin Tools offers microtasking features, time estimation, and organization aids to help break down overwhelming tasks. Even if you’re neurotypical, the app’s unique approach can provide fresh perspectives for tackling complex to-dos.

7. The Admin Attaché: Tailored for Assistants by Assistants

We’re proud to highlight The Admin Attaché, a tool we created specifically for administrative professionals. Designed by assistants, for assistants, it’s packed with resources to streamline your workday, including templates, resource libraries, and tools for managing your to do list, travel, your goals and more. Tailored to address the unique challenges faced by admins, The Admin Attaché stands out as a holistic solution to help you work smarter and impress your team.

8. Arc Browser: A Fresh Take on Internet Browsing

Arc Browser reimagines browsing with a focus on organization and productivity. Features like visual tabs, intuitive shortcuts, and workspace separation make multitasking a breeze. Assistants who handle multiple projects or clients will find Arc invaluable for managing workflows.

Discover More in Our Tech Hack Series

These tools have been game-changers for administrative professionals in 2024, and we’ve loved sharing their features in our Tech Hack series. If you’re looking to stay ahead in your role, join us for our next webinar where we explore even more time-saving tools and strategies.

What are your favorite tools this year? Share your experiences in the comments below!

How to Escape the Meeting Room (Without Losing Your Mind) – Tips for More Productive, Stress-Free Meetings

Please note this page may contain affiliate links that support us to do what we do best. We only partner with products and services we love. You can read our Affiliate Disclaimer for more information.

We’ve all been there: trapped in a meeting that seems to stretch on forever, with no real point, no decision, and no escape in sight. You’re waiting for someone to finally say “That’s a wrap!”—but it never happens. The clock ticks on, and you’re stuck in a time suck.

But here’s the secret: meetings don’t have to feel like an endurance test! In fact, with a little prep, a few simple tweaks, and some smart strategies, you can make every meeting you run or attend more effective, productive, and (yes) even enjoyable. For assistants, office managers, and admin pros, this is especially important—you’re the ones who often organize and manage meetings, and when they run well, so does your day.

Let’s unlock the secrets to better meetings, so you can escape the chaos without losing your sanity.

Step 1: Set Clear Objectives – Your Meeting’s Key to Freedom

Instead of thinking you’re headed into a meeting, imagine you’re entering an escape room adventure. You’ll need to solve a few puzzles to find the key or code that unlocks the room and gets you the heck out of there. The way meetings are often treated is like walking into an escape room where you find endless puzzles but no keys.

The best way to stop this madness is by defining clear objectives for your meetings and making sure they are at the top of your agenda. These “key” objectives, when completed, get you one step closer to freedom. Once you’ve completed all the objectives, it’s time to go!

Pro Tip: Here’s where you can really level up. Use AI tools to help you write your meeting objectives! AI can help you frame objectives that aren’t just “what” you need to achieve, but “why” it matters and the value behind it. When prompting an AI assistant like ChatGPT, ask it to help you craft objectives by including the expected outcomes, the impact on the team, project, or company, and the bigger picture value.

Example AI Prompt:
“Help me write a clear and strategic objective for a meeting to review and approve the new client proposal. Include the purpose of this meeting, the expected impact on our project success, and how it aligns with our company’s goals for client satisfaction and future growth.”

For example:

Original Objective: To review and approve the new client proposal.
AI-Enhanced Objective: To review and approve the new client proposal to ensure it aligns with the client’s needs, company strategy, and budget, paving the way for successful project execution and long-term partnership growth.

By using AI to craft more specific, outcome-focused objectives, you’ll ensure that your meetings drive meaningful results and remain aligned with your larger goals. This will make your meetings more effective and impactful, and everyone will leave feeling like they’ve accomplished something important.

Step 2: Craft a Well-Structured Agenda – The Roadmap to a Smooth Escape

A meeting with no agenda is like an escape room with no clues—frustrating and time-wasting. A solid agenda keeps everyone on track and helps you hit your objectives faster.

Break down the meeting into specific discussion points, and give each one a set time. That way, you can keep things moving and ensure that you tackle all the important stuff without getting lost in the weeds.

The best part? Share the agenda ahead of time. When everyone knows what to expect, they’ll come prepared and ready to dive into the conversation, which means less time spent rehashing old topics and more time getting to the good stuff.

Pro Tip: Keep the agenda simple, clear, and action-oriented. Focus on outcomes, not just topics. For example:

Review client feedback (15 mins)
Discuss marketing strategy revisions (20 mins)
Assign action items for next steps (10 mins)

With a clear agenda, the meeting will flow like a breeze—and before you know it, you’ll be out of there and onto the next task.

Step 3: Use a Digital Tool to Track Actions – Your Meeting’s Final Escape Code

Okay, you’ve set the objective, created an agenda, and had your meeting. Now comes the most important part—tracking what gets done. Without a system to capture action items, all your hard work can slip through the cracks.

This is where digital tools like Notion come in. Notion is perfect for tracking everything discussed in your meetings and assigning tasks to the right people. It’s like having a personal assistant for your meetings, making sure no action item gets forgotten.

Pro Tip: After the meeting, drop your notes, action items, and deadlines into Notion (affiliate link), and assign tasks to your team. Everyone will know exactly what they need to do next, and you’ll avoid those awkward “Wait, who was supposed to do that?” moments.

Why This Works: Escape the Chaos, Find the Productivity

Here’s the thing: meetings don’t have to be a never-ending, chaotic mess. With clear objectives, a structured agenda, and a tool to track action items, you’ll be able to escape the meeting room faster and more effectively. You’ll save time, feel more organized, and most importantly, avoid feeling like you’ve wasted an hour (or more) of your precious workday.

For assistants, office managers, and admin pros, this approach isn’t just about improving your meetings—it’s about taking control of your time and making your entire day more productive. You’ll spend less time in unnecessary meetings and more time focusing on the work that really matters.

Ready to Escape?

The next time you find yourself in a meeting that feels like it could drag on forever, remember: you’ve got the tools to escape! Set a clear objective, create a structured agenda, and track your action items in a tool like Notion . With these simple steps, you’ll be able to walk out of the meeting feeling accomplished—and most importantly, free.