I set a goal back in 2013 to earn my CAP and OM. Life happened, and I did not meet those goals. Fast forward to 2017, a great new job, and a company willing to invest in me to earn these certifications. The CAP and OM are professional achievements that I definitely want to obtain. Not only for my own professional development, but to be more marketable, knowledgeable and competitive in the administrative field. There's so much to know these days! And I want to be among the best in this field. I'm equally nervous and excited about this endeavor and appreciate all the guidance I'll be receiving along the way. It will be an honor to be able to add those three letters after my name and join the ranks of other CAPs!

Congrats on taking the next steps in your professional development.

Barbara, you know that old saying, "there is no time like the present"? The timing is perfect for you to invest in YOU and to obtain  certification. And it's only the beginning...

It took me about 2 years to obtain mine. Life does happen. Another obstacle of mine was studying. It had been a while since I had exercised my brain, and I had lost my good study habits I used to have in school. It took some "oomph" to become more disciplined and buckle down. But I will tell you this - after realizing how difficult it was getting into that frame of mind, which had been so easy once upon a time, I refused to ever let myself get that comfortable again. The CAP is what made me become a lifetime learner. Earning my certification reminded me of why I used to love school. The climb, the struggle, and then... success! It's so rewarding. It only took me 7 more years to obtain my OM!

I think in our profession, Admins are conditioned to put everything and everyone in front of themselves. There's always other priorities and immediate needs in both our work and home lives. However, investing in ourselves is crucial to everything else we touch. Whether it teaches us to communicate more effectively with family or support a busy Executive, the results are the same. Investing in ourselves increases our efficacy and yields greater results from our efforts. Which in turn, allows us to support everyone else in a more meaningful way.

Congratulations on making that commitment! It's great that your company sees your value and is willing to invest in you. There's a wonderful group of Admins here that will root for you all the way!

Hi Barbara! I commend you for your initiative to elevating your career and increasing your marketability. Your drive and determination to invest in yourself will prove to be successful!