Start Planning Now For Admin Professionals Week

Administrative Professionals Week is April 22 -28

Every year during the last week of April businesses around the world take time to recognize the administrative professionals that support their success. Wednesday of that week is set aside for special events and recognition as Administrative Professionals Day. (This year it's April 25.)

Start planning now

Contrary to what you might believe, your administrative professionals are not panting for flowers, candy and a nice lunch. Nor are they desperate for massages, gift cards for dinner or (oh no, you didn't) self-help books or time management systems! On the other hand, a carefully chosen assortment of chocolates for a chocolate lover, a gift card to Pike Nurseries for an avid gardener, or a gift card for dinner at a favorite restaurant for a foodie will make a lasting impression. A book lover might really appreciate a gift card to Barnes & Noble, Border’s or amazon.com. A dog or cat fancier might relish a gift card from PetSmart. What’s important is to take the time to make it personal and meaningful. When in doubt, it's always a good idea to ask your firm’s administrator or the individual’s significant other for suggestions.

Don't pass the buck

Even if the firm has plans to observe Administrative Professionals Week, their gift or recognition may not always hit the mark. Your admins want to know that the person they work hard for all year (you) cares about them. Add a hand-written note to your personal gift as a heart-felt finishing touch. (See last month's Message for more on writing business notes.)

Don't make it just once a year

There are many opportunities throughout the year to recognize your admin staff. Build reminders for service anniversaries, birthdays and other important milestones into your calendar as you would your planned activities for business development.   Remembering these events will help create a working environment that inspires loyalty and commitment.