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In today’s uncertain commercial environment, hiring a new personal assistant may not be at the top of an executive’s priority list. However, it is precisely in such challenging times as these that the value and utility of the role emerges. A PA, after all, is not just a simple cost or someone to run errands. Rather, they are a savvy investment in a company’s efficiency and operational harmony with potential to drive value and cost-savings.
Would an investment in a PA be worth it for you? Here are four major advantages they can bring to a leader or leadership team:
All too often, CEOs and Directors find themselves pulled in multiple directions and attending to a plethora of issues across their companies. With time being such a precious commodity, it is crucial that the administrative work which constitutes the bedrock of an organization finds itself in capable hands, enabling the C-suite to focus on its core functions: leadership, big picture thinking, and expansion.
Here, a skilled and experienced PA will truly make themselves felt by giving management back its all-important time and headspace to focus on taking the company to the next level.
As we have seen, a PA’s organizational skills are critical in keeping operations running smoothly and effectively from an administrative point of view. However, a PA brings infinitely more than this to the table. Increasingly, a PA acts as a lieutenant in everything from hiring and market research to communications and culture. It is precisely the malleability of the role that makes it a vital addition to any leader’s office.
If you find you need someone jump in when unexpected issues arise, an expert PA could be the person to put out the fire before you even know it’s started.
To that point, an effective executive cannot be and should not have to be everywhere at once. Good leaders rely upon the competency of those they entrust with the on-the-ground running of the business. But beyond monthly metrics and reports, how does the C-suite stay connected to the day-to-day troubles and triumphs of those they lead? A PA will act as the eyes and ears of the C-suite, providing essential insights into the challenges facing staff, whilst contributing to a culture of accountability and collaboration.
Hiring a PA is a wonderful way to stay connected to your wider organization, especially if you’re feeling stretched thin.
During periods of economic turmoil, contraction, or uncertainty, it is natural that hiring strategies will see re-evaluation, with some hires de-prioritized or postponed. But commercial downturns do not change the essential tasks of leadership. In fact, sound strategy and high-level management become more important than ever, and with them, the support of capable staff to keep things running.
Quality becomes the decisive factor here. One good hire can offset major commercial challenges by providing that practical edge which all leaders need to prioritize the essentials. If you want to double down on value-for-money hires, a personal assistant could be the perfect place to start.
If you would like to browse more of our market and leadership insights, please do so in our Advice Section.
While Page Executive is optimally positioned to place talent at the executive and management levels, our colleagues at Page Personnel can help you to find support talent, such as personal assistants.
