An Exploration into the World of Secretaries and Administrative Assistants

Abstract

Secretaries and Administrative Assistants play significant roles in each and every
organization. Despite the general stereotype of their professions, one can never fully
understand the extent of their work, particularly so when technology and time have
transformed their roles over the past decades. This explorative qualitative study, attempted to
dig a little deeper into the professional lives of ten secretaries and administrative assistants
through in-depth interviews from different industries. Out of the ten participants, up to 90%
were female, with only 10% represented by the male gender. Services were rendered to top
management, and contacts were made both internally and externally to accomplish task
assignments. The majority performed secretarial duties while 20% were involved in other
non-secretarial duties as well. Most secretaries enjoyed their work and expressed three areas
in which they enjoyed and least enjoyed in their careers, as well as challenges encountered
on the job. The enjoyment included working with nice bosses, the contacts made, and being
entrusted decision-making. They were however, unhappy with the negative perceptions
people had of them, working with jerks, and work pressures. Although the majority were
satisfied with their jobs, up to 40% stated that they would like to move to other professions
if given the opportunity.