1.     Embrace continuous learning

As Administrators one of the most powerful tools for personal development is continuous learning. Or as we like to call it in our office, ‘be curious’. Ask questions, understand the why and delve deeper in a subject or topic. Don’t just stop at a google search. Explore further. Stay up to date with the latest tools and software, such as project management platforms, CRM systems, or office suite applications. It improves efficiency and job performance. There are so many courses, webinars, forums and so much more we can tap into, learning comes in all shapes and sizes!

2.     Build strong communication skills

One of the fundamental elements of an administrator’s role is communication, whether that be verbal, written or via one of the other plethora of platforms we interact on every day. Your communication needs to be clear, well executed and tailored to suit the recipient. Take time to refine your communication style. Be clear and concise in your emails, and practice active listening during meetings and calls. Continuously working on your communication skills will not only improve your working relationships but also quickly make you an indispensable part of the team.

3.     Emotional intelligence

This is the favourite in the EST10 office! Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognise, understand, and manage your emotions. It also relates to understanding the impact you have on others. We navigate different situations every day in our roles, many of which could be considered challenging. With good EQ you are more likely to deal with these situations effectively and manage any associated workplace stress better. To develop your EQ, start with self-awareness. How do you respond in different situations? Observe yourself and others. Empathy comes hand in hand with EQ. Take time to listen, acknowledge and support colleagues when needed. By building strong interpersonal relationships and managing emotions effectively, you’ll foster a positive and collaborative work environment.

4.     Cultivate a growth mindset

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities can be developed through hard work, perseverance, and learning from mistakes. This is a great way to enhance your own personal development, with a switch in mindset what were obstacles become opportunities for growth. To develop your growth mindset, embrace challenges and venture outside your comfort zone! These don’t always need to be big things. View your career development as a continuous process, you become more resilient and open to change.

5.     Seek feedback and act on it

Feedback is one of the best ways to understand your strengths and areas for improvement. It is also a great way to understand your impact on others (see bullet 3- emotional intelligence!) Feedback comes in all forms and doesn’t just need to be at performance review time. In fact, waiting for a performance review to hear feedback is not recommended! Instead, actively seek out feedback all the time. Take this on as your own initiative.

Taking constructive criticism positively is essential for growth. Feedback isn’t always easy to hear. Be open, listen actively, don’t get defensive and consider all the points raised so you can set clear goals and track tangible improvements. Most importantly, treat feedback as a gift and thank the person for sharing it with you.

Personal development never ends, it takes work, commitment and a proactive mindset – the rewards, however, speak for themselves! As administrative professionals, personal development can enhance our skills, expand our knowledge and unlock new career possibilities. Investing in your personal development is an investment in your future and in today’s world, is non-negotiable. By investing in yourself, you not only enhance your skills, but also demonstrate initiative and ambition—traits that employers value and love!

If you would like more information, Roxanne, our MD’s first book, Employable: 7 Attributes to assure your working future provides fabulous insights, tips and advice on this subject! And excitedly, we are about to launch a new business, proving coaching, training, mentoring and more. Stay tuned!