Wed, Apr. 21, 2004
Make today special for support staff
By JEFF ELDER, Staff Writer
Know a secretary or administrative assistant?
Today's the day to thank them for all they do: It's Administrative Professionals
Day.
The annual event was organized in 1952 and is now celebrated worldwide. Millions
of people gather for community events, seminars and company activities
recognizing support staff or simply give gifts of appreciation.
Today, there are more than 4.1 million secretaries and administrative assistants
working in the United States, according to U.S. Department of Labor statistics,
and 8.9 million people working in various administrative support roles.
"Ambassadors of Excellence" is the theme for this year's observance, signifying
that administrative professionals are key front-line representatives for their
employers and signifying the global nature of today's workplace.
Recommendations For Employers and Supervisors
Recognize support staff's professional role. Provide opportunities for
professional learning and growth.
• Bring in a professional development speaker to address the support staff.
• Pay registration fees for a professional development seminar to build
technical, interpersonal or business skills.
• Support membership in appropriate networking and professional associations.
• Make a gift of appropriate business-related items, such as personalized
business cards, a desktop nameplate, a gift certificate, ergonomically correct
desk accessories or equipment, computer upgrades or a monetary bonus for
exemplary performance.
SOURCE: International Association of Administrative Professionals
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