Most Underrated Skills of Administrative Professionals
In the fast-paced and dynamic world of administrative professionals, certain skills often go unnoticed despite their crucial role in ensuring smooth operations. Back in November of 2023, a poll on EA's LinkedIn business page (see image above) shed light on what administrative professionals themselves believe to be the most underrated skills. With 483 votes cast, the results are in, and the winner is surprising yet enlightening.
In this article, we’ll talk about:
Emotional Intelligence insight and why it matters
Adaptability insight and why it matters
Problem solving insight and why it matters
Technological Proficiency insight and why it matters
Emotional Intelligence at Work
The poll’s revelation: 45% favor emotional intelligence.
This essential skill involves the ability to understand and manage one's emotions while effectively navigating interpersonal relationships. As administrative roles increasingly demand collaboration, the emphasis on emotional intelligence, which sometimes includes managing annoying people, is more crucial than ever.
Why Emotional Intelligence Matters:
Enhanced Interpersonal Relationships: Administrative professionals connect different teams and people. Emotional intelligence helps them handle various personalities and build positive relationships.
Conflict Resolution: When things get intense, conflicts can arise. Emotional intelligence enables administrators to approach conflicts with empathy, leading to more effective resolutions.
Adaptability at Work
The poll’s revelation: 28% favor adaptability.
The modern workplace is marked by rapid changes, and administrative professionals need to adapt. From technology updates to changes in how the company works, adaptability ensures that admins remain effective in the face of uncertainty.
Key Aspects of Adaptability:
Tech-Savviness: Using technology is a big part of today's administrative work. Being adaptable means embracing new tech, staying updated, and using tools to work more efficiently.
Proactive Problem-Solving: Adaptability and problem-solving often go hand in hand. Admins who can quickly assess and respond to new challenges contribute significantly to organizational resilience.
Problem Solving at Work
The poll’s revelation: 20% favor problem solving.
In the ever-changing world of administration, challenges are inevitable. An administrator's ability to analyze situations, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions is paramount.
The Role of Problem-Solving:
Improving Efficiency: Administrators who excel in problem-solving contribute to streamlined processes and increased productivity. They find and fix issues that optimize workflow.
Innovative Solutions: Creativity and problem-solving often go hand in hand. Admins who think outside the box can offer innovative solutions to longstanding challenges, contributing to organizational growth.
Technological Proficiency at Work
The poll’s revelation: 6% favor technological proficiency.
Being an admin in today’s fast-paced world requires being technologically proficient (like using ChatGPT for Executive Assistants). It’s more than a skill, it’s a silent power player. Admins who embrace and master technology contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of their organization.
Aspects of Technological Proficiency:
Digital Integration: As technology becomes increasingly integrated into administrative tasks, staying proficient in digital tools and platforms is essential. Leveraging technology streamlines processes and productivity.
Data Management: Technological proficiency includes the ability to manage and analyze data effectively. Being proficient in data management contributes to informed decision-making within your role and company.
To wrap it up, think of emotional intelligence as the essential glue for administrative professionals within the organization. It's not just a skill; it's a vital aspect of being an exceptional admin. When organizations value emotional intelligence, they empower admins to excel in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and navigating change. Let's celebrate this often-overlooked skill as we pave the way for a more effective and harmonious future in administrative leadership.
Launch Pad:
Take a moment to assess your strengths and areas for growth in emotional intelligence. Explore resources to develop this skill.
Share this article with your colleagues and start a conversation about the importance of having emotional intelligence.
Explore resources such as books, online courses, or workshops to expand your Suite of Strengths™️.
For additional Emotional intelligence, and several laughs, be sure to hit play to our latest #eaPodcat episode below: