Feeling overwhelmed by endless notes and too much information? It’s time to turn chaos into clarity! Join us for our popular Tech Hack session where we’ll dive into NotebookLM, the AI-powered tool designed to help you find, digest, and understand the information that matters most.
In this session, Lauren will demonstrate how NotebookLM, powered by Gemini 1.5, can make your notes more digestible. Whether you’re juggling meeting minutes, brainstorming sessions, or important project details, this tool is your secret weapon for simplifying complex information and turning it into actionable insights.
Key Takeaways:
Streamline Your Notes: Learn how NotebookLM’s AI can search key details and summarize what’s important.
Real-Time Demo: See NotebookLM in action and learn how to integrate it into your workflow.
This session is perfect for administrative professionals and executive assistants ready to take control of their notes and elevate their productivity.
Register now to discover how NotebookLM can help you move from information overload to actionable understanding!
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
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.
February 6
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM GMT
Are you ready to streamline your team’s onboarding, training, and workflows? Join us for this Tech Hack session featuring Trainual, the ultimate tool for organizing and documenting your business processes—all in one place. Perfect for administrative professionals and executive assistants, this session will show you how to make your team’s processes crystal clear and easy to follow.
In this hands-on workshop, Lauren will demonstrate how Trainual can help you:
Create a central hub for team knowledge and procedures.
Onboard new team members quickly and consistently.
Maintain process clarity, even in fast-paced environments.
Whether you’re managing employee training or creating SOPs, Trainual ensures everyone stays on the same page. Say goodbye to scattered documents and hello to streamlined workflows!
Key Takeaways:
Centralized Knowledge: Learn how to build and maintain a living, searchable library for your team.
Effortless Training: See how Trainual can automate onboarding and make training consistent and effective.
Live Demo: Watch a step-by-step guide to creating a process that saves you time and effort.
Interactive Q&A: Get your questions answered and discover tips for integrating Trainual into your workflow.
This session is perfect for anyone looking to simplify team management and enhance organizational efficiency.
Register now to see how Trainual can transform the way you manage and document processes!
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
Hey there, fellow administrative professionals! If you’re like me, you juggle a million things each day—from managing schedules and organizing files to keeping everything running smoothly. It’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed when challenges pop up. But here’s a little secret: there is an app for that! Technology has become our best friend, and it’s more intuitive than ever, ready to help us tackle any challenge that comes our way.
The Magic of Technology at Your Fingertips
Every day, we encounter situations that require quick thinking and creative solutions. Whether you’re trying to organize a complex meeting or sort through a mountain of emails, instead of stressing out, why not explore the amazing digital resources available to you? Here’s why embracing technology can make your life a whole lot easier—and boost your value as an employee:
User-Friendly Tools: So many software applications are designed with you in mind. You don’t need to be a tech genius to navigate them! Platforms like Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are super intuitive, making it easy to find solutions quickly.
Streamline Your Work: Automation is a game changer! With the right tools, you can set up automated tasks that save you time and reduce errors. For example, Microsoft Power Automate lets you create workflows that connect your apps. If you’re constantly copying data between Excel and other platforms, let’s find a way to automate that!
Collaboration Made Simple: Working with your team has never been easier. Whether it’s using Google Docs for real-time editing or Microsoft Teams for instant chats, these tools help us collaborate seamlessly and make teamwork fun.
A Wealth of Resources: The internet is full of helpful resources! From tutorials and webinars to forums where you can ask questions, there’s no shortage of information to help you level up your skills. Plus, many apps come with built-in support, so you can troubleshoot problems without breaking a sweat.
Why Embracing Technology Makes You More Valuable
Now, let’s talk about how embracing technology can elevate your career and make you a more valuable asset to your team:
Increased Efficiency: By leveraging technology, you can streamline processes and complete tasks faster. This efficiency not only helps you stay on top of your workload but also impresses your supervisors and colleagues, showing them that you’re proactive and resourceful.
Enhanced Skill Set: Staying up to date with the latest tools and technology means you’re constantly expanding your skill set. This not only boosts your confidence but also makes you more marketable within your organization. Employers value team members who are adaptable and eager to learn!
Better Problem Solving: Embracing technology equips you with a variety of tools to tackle challenges creatively. When you can quickly find solutions and implement them, you become the go-to person in your office for tech-related issues, further establishing your value as a reliable team member.
Improved Communication: Technology enhances communication and collaboration within teams. By mastering tools that facilitate smooth communication, you contribute to a more cohesive work environment, making you an indispensable part of your organization.
Cultivating a Tech-Friendly Mindset
Now, let’s talk about how to embrace this tech-savvy mindset. Here are some friendly tips to get you started:
Think Like a Problem Solver: When you hit a bump in the road, ask yourself, “Is there an app for that?” Take a few minutes to explore potential solutions online. Whether you’re looking for a better way to manage your calendar or an app to help with project tracking, I promise the right tech is out there just waiting for you to discover it!
Dive into Built-In Features: Before searching for new tools, take a look at what you already have. Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace are packed with features that can help you. For example, check out Microsoft To Do for tracking tasks or Google Keep for organizing notes and reminders. You might find everything you need is already at your fingertips!
Learn and Grow: Investing time in learning how to use your tools can really pay off. Many platforms offer free or low-cost training resources to help you become more confident. Consider joining online workshops or webinars specifically for administrative professionals to get the latest tips and tricks.
Connect with Fellow Assistants: Don’t underestimate the power of community! Networking with other administrative pros can open up new ideas and strategies. Share your experiences, ask for advice, and learn from each other to discover tools and methods that work for you.
Conclusion
Embracing technology isn’t just about making your job easier; it’s about empowering yourself to work smarter and enjoy your day even more! The next time you face a challenge, remember: there is an app for that! By developing a mindset of curiosity and exploring the intuitive tools at your disposal, you can boost your productivity, streamline your workflow, and truly shine in your role as an administrative professional.
Let’s embark on this exciting digital journey together, embracing technology as our trusted ally in the workplace! We’ve got this, and together, we’ll show the world just how valuable we can be!
Join our Tech Hacks
Ready to take your tech skills to the next level? Join us for our free Tech Hacks webinars designed specifically for assistants!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your skills and become an even more valuable member of your team. Sign up today and let’s explore the world of technology together!
Learn why optimal stopping is the key to making the right choice
Every day, administrative professionals are faced with countless decisions—whether it’s hiring a candidate, choosing a supplier, or picking the best venue for an event. The challenge? Making the “right” choice can feel impossible when options are numerous and there’s pressure to make a fast decision.
This is where a concept from mathematics, called The Secretary Problem, offers a unique perspective. The name alone makes it sound like it was made just for administrative professionals like you! It’s a classic mathematical problem that’s been used to guide strategic decisions across various fields. Let’s explore what the Secretary Problem is, how it applies to the choices you make, and why it can help you feel more confident in making well-timed decisions.
What is the Secretary Problem?
The Secretary Problem (sometimes called the “Optimal Stopping Problem”) describes a mathematical approach to selecting the best option from a sequence of choices—when you only get one chance to make that choice. Originally, this problem was framed around hiring a secretary: imagine you have a fixed number of candidates for the position. You have to evaluate each one in order, deciding whether to accept or reject them as you go. But here’s the catch: once you pass on a candidate, you can’t go back.
The goal is to figure out a strategy for identifying the best candidate without knowing who the remaining candidates are or how good they might be. Mathematicians studying the problem determined a clever way to maximize your chances of choosing the best candidate without looking at all of them.
How Does the Solution Work? The 37% Rule
The general solution to the Secretary Problem suggests that you should spend approximately 37% of your time (or the total number of choices) just evaluating options, without committing to any one choice. During this phase, you observe and set a benchmark based on the options you’ve seen. After reaching this 37% mark, you then select the first candidate that exceeds the benchmark set in the initial evaluation phase.
For instance, if you have ten candidates to interview, you’d evaluate the first four without making any offers. From candidate number five onward, you’d make an offer to the first one that surpasses those initial four in quality.
Why the Secretary Problem Matters for Admin Professionals
Understanding the Secretary Problem can help you in situations where:
You have limited time and resources (e.g., reviewing a long list of suppliers or vendors).
You need to make a choice without revisiting past options (e.g., deciding on a candidate for a temporary position).
There’s pressure to choose the best option (e.g., selecting a venue for a VIP event).
Let’s look at how applying this strategy can help in practical ways.
Applications of the Secretary Problem in Admin Work
1. Selecting Candidates for Open Positions
When you’re assisting in the hiring process, The Secretary Problem can be a helpful framework. By evaluating candidates without committing in the initial stages, you can develop a sense of the “standard” before you make a hiring recommendation. This can help you feel more confident that the candidate you recommend later on is genuinely one of the best in the pool.
2. Choosing Vendors or Suppliers
From catering to office supplies, finding the right vendor can be time-consuming. Following the 37% rule, you could spend the initial 37% of your review time just comparing and taking notes. Then, commit to the first vendor who outshines the ones reviewed earlier, confident that you’ve sampled enough of the market to make a smart decision.
3. Making Decisions with Limited Information
When comparing venues, partners, or project timelines, decisions often need to be made with limited information. Applying the Secretary Problem can reduce decision fatigue and help you avoid second-guessing your choices. It offers a rational stopping point, so you don’t feel the need to endlessly search for “something better.”
Key Takeaways
The Secretary Problem can help admin professionals approach choices strategically, ensuring they don’t rush to choose or endlessly search for the “perfect” option.
Using the 37% rule as a guide can reduce decision fatigue, giving you a structured way to determine when you’ve seen enough options.
Knowing when to stop (and that it’s mathematically backed) provides peace of mind when selecting the right candidate, vendor, or venue.
Whether you’re recruiting for a role, booking a supplier, or managing resources, understanding The Secretary Problem can be your secret weapon for making smarter, faster, and more satisfying decisions.
The next time you’re weighing a tough choice, remember The Secretary Problem and the 37% rule. It’s more than just math—it’s a tool that’s uniquely relevant to the decision-making challenges you face as an administrative professional.
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.
Recommended Reading
If you’re interested in learning more about practical algorithms that can simplify decision-making in work and life, I highly recommend Algorithms to Live By by Brian Christian and Tom Griffiths. This book dives into powerful strategies like the Secretary Problem and many others, offering insights into how computer science principles can help us navigate everyday choices.
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.
December 5, 2024
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM GMT
Join us for a special year-end Tech Tool Roundup designed for administrative professionals and executive assistants! In this fast-paced session, we’ll showcase the best of the best. We’ll be looking at all the best tech tools we’ve uncovered throughout the 2024 Tech Hack series.
Lauren will guide you through the top platforms and apps that have proven invaluable for assistants, helping you streamline your workflow, boost productivity, and manage your tasks with ease. Whether you’re looking for new ways to organize your day, simplify travel planning, or create polished visuals, this webinar will give you the insights and tools you need to stay ahead of the curve.
Key Takeaways:
Best of 2024: A roundup of the top tech tools we’ve explored this year.
Live Demos: See these tools in action and learn how to use them effectively in your role.
Practical Tips: Discover how these platforms can save you time and help you work smarter, not harder.
Interactive Q&A: Get real-time advice and answers to your questions.
This webinar is perfect for executive assistants, office managers, administrative professionals, and anyone looking to enhance their tech toolkit. Don’t miss this chance to explore the best tools of the year and take your skills to the next level!
Register now and get ready to transform your workflow with the top tech tools of 2024!
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
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.
November 7, 2024
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM GMT
Do you know you can create graphics for reports, presentations and more that truly impress? Join us for an exclusive webinar tailored for administrative professionals and executive assistants, where we’ll explore Canva’s latest AI-driven tools designed to help you produce standout visuals with ease! From beautiful presentations to eye-catching social media graphics, this session will show you how to leverage Canva’s cutting-edge updates, including the powerful new Dream Lab features.
Lauren will guide you through Canva’s AI-enhanced tools, demonstrating how they can help you design impressive visuals in minutes—no design experience needed. Discover tips and tricks for creating polished, professional content that will elevate your work and captivate your team.
Key Takeaways:
AI-Driven Design Tools: Dive into Canva’s latest AI features, including Dream Lab, and see how it can help you create eye-catching and truly impressive imagery that will wow your employer
Live Demo: Watch as Lauren shows you how to create team-worthy visuals using Canva’s intuitive, assistant-friendly tools.
Design Tips for Admins: Learn practical design techniques tailored to the needs of busy administrative professionals.
Interactive Q&A: Get your questions answered and receive expert tips
This session is perfect for executive assistants, office managers, and administrative professionals who want to add creative flair to their projects. Register now and get ready to wow your team with Canva’s newest AI-driven features!
Don’t miss out—join us and discover how Canva can become your secret design superpower!
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
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.
October 10, 2024
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM BST
Design Smarter: Microsoft Designer vs. Canva for Stunning Visuals
Description:
Curious about how Microsoft Designer stacks up against industry leader Canva? Join us for an insightful tech hack webinar designed specifically for administrative professionals and executive assistants! In this session, we’ll explore the capabilities of Microsoft Designer, highlighting its strengths, ease of use, and AI-powered features, while comparing it to Canva’s well-known design platform.
Lauren will provide an over-the-shoulder demo of Microsoft Designer, showcasing how it helps you create professional-grade visuals in minutes, no design experience required. You’ll learn how Microsoft Designer’s features can enhance your productivity and whether it’s the right tool for your specific design needs, especially when compared to Canva.
Key Takeaways:
Microsoft Designer vs. Canva: A comprehensive comparison of the two platforms, examining their features, ease of use, and strengths.
Live Microsoft Designer Demo: See how to create polished, professional visuals using Microsoft Designer’s intuitive interface and AI capabilities.
AI-Driven Design: Learn how Microsoft Designer leverages AI to help you create stunning designs quickly and effortlessly.
Interactive Q&A: Get your specific design questions answered and find out which platform suits your workflow best.
This webinar is perfect for executive assistants, office managers, administrative professionals, and anyone looking to boost their design game and streamline their creative process. Whether you’re a Canva loyalist or looking for something new, this session will give you a clear understanding of how Microsoft Designer can fit into your toolkit.
Don’t miss out—register now and see how Microsoft Designer measures up to Canva for all your design needs!
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
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.
September 12, 2024
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM BST
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Topic: TBC
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
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.
July 11, 2024
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM BST
Join us for an exciting and practical tech hack webinar designed for administrative professionals and executive assistants! Discover how to plan travel like a pro with insights from Lauren, who will share her favorite tech tools and vendors to streamline your travel planning process.
In this session, Lauren will give you an over-the-shoulder view of how she plans travel from a start-up POV, showing you essential tools that can transform how you manage trips for yourself and your team. Learn how to leverage these resources to create efficient, hassle-free travel plans that meet the dynamic needs of a startup environment.
Key Takeaways:
Top Tech Tools: Explore Lauren’s go-to apps and vendors for seamless trip management.
Resourceful Travel Hacks: Gain practical tips tailored for the dynamic needs of a startup environment. (aka alternatives for those who don’t have Concur and a travel team within reach)
Live Demonstration: Watch best practices and strategies in action through an over-the-shoulder view.
Interactive Q&A: Have your specific questions answered in real-time.
Don’t miss this app-solutely essential opportunity to elevate your travel planning skills with expert insights and tech-savvy solutions. Register now and see how Lauren plans travel like a pro!
This webinar is perfect for executive assistants, administrative professionals, office managers, and anyone involved in organizing travel, looking to enhance their planning skills with the latest tech tools and resourceful travel hacks.
About the Tech Hack Series Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
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.
June 6, 2024
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5:00 PM
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6:00 PM BST
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Topic: TBC
This is a FREE webinar open to all. Please note, our content is tailored for administrative professionals but all are welcome.
Lauren Bradley, FoundeR of The Officials + Lead Trainer
Join us for our wildly successful Tech Hack Series with host Lauren Bradley. She speaks with administrative professionals about her favorite tech tips and tricks to help assistants… – Embrace tech and not fear it – Make more money by boosting their skill set – Impress their team and bosses with their problem-solving skills – Stay relevant as technology rapidly redefines the way we work
Lauren has held every admin and assistant title under the sun including Office Manager, Virtual Assistant, EA to the CEO and private PA to HNWIs. She is a former OfficeNinjas All-Star winner and founder of The Officials. She is passionate about empowering admins and assistants.
