So, it´s less than a month to go until Administrative Professionals Day and although you may have been very prepared and have something in place, it may be that you´ve been waiting (and hoping) that someone else would organise something for you this year. Admin Day is your time, but let's be honest – sometimes it feels like just another day with a few extra smiles. This year, let's change that. Let's use it as a launchpad to get the recognition you deserve, not just for one day, but all year round.
So, first things first.
Think about what it means to you to feel appreciated. It´s different for all of us and a one size fits all approach is unlikely to work. If you´re in any doubt about the importance of feeling valued in the workplace, or you think your executive or HR may not see the importance in it, the go back to this article we wrote earlier in the year to remind yourself EXACTLY why it´s so important to be recognised.
It´s all Me, Me,Me..
Well, the day definitely needs to be about you feeling appreciated, but it´s also important to think about other people in a similar role within the company. Is there the opportunity to organise something company wide that could show a general appreciation for all of your administrative staff? If budget allows, consider using Administrative Professionals Day as an opportunity to organize a special event for the entire administrative department. This could be a skills-building workshop, a themed lunch with guest speakers, or even a relaxing team outing.
For inspiration on how to plan and execute a seamless event, check out our blog post on top event management tools for assistants. A dedicated admin event is also a fantastic way to foster the kind of internal networking that benefits everyone, something we explore in-depth in our post about the importance of assistant networks.
Above and beyond that though, let´s think about the ways that you can make sure that you have the sort of day that YOU deserve.
Treat Yourself, Because You're Worth It
Yes, start with that fancy coffee, the playlist that gets you in your work zone, and maybe even a cheeky new pen (we all have a favourite kind!). But don't stop there. This is a day to indulge in what fuels YOU. That might be a long walk at lunch to clear your head, or finally blocking time for that project you're excited about.
The "Brag File" That Goes Beyond Performance Reviews
We know to track our wins, but how often do we let ourselves soak them in? Create a "Feel Good File" – emails where your boss raved about your work, that thank-you note from a stressed-out exec you saved, even post-its from a coworker when you covered for them. When you have a tough day, this is your superpower, reminding you of your impact.
Your Dream Workday: Impossibly Perfect, but Invaluable
Close your eyes for five minutes and picture your IDEAL workday. Zero drama, everyone appreciates you, the tech works flawlessly...get detailed! Doesn't matter if it feels unrealistic. Compare that to reality. What are the BIGGEST gaps? This isn't about whining, it's about targeting what truly matters to you. It could be about feeling heard, having autonomy, whatever it is – that's your roadmap to asking for what you need.
Spread the Love, It Comes Back Around
Beyond the Bubble: Is there someone whose work makes yours possible, but they're always in the background? Facilities crew, the mailroom guy, the perpetually grumpy IT wizard? A small gift, a handwritten "thank you", those take minutes but mean the world. This is how we build a workplace where everyone feels seen.
Pay it Forward: Remember when you first started and felt lost? Offer to mentor a new admin, or just be the go-to person for that one process no one can figure out. Sharing knowledge isn't about making yourself replaceable, it's about making everyone stronger, which benefits you too!
Admin Day is a Mirror
We can pretend it's just about cake and cards, but deep down, we know better. How your company treats you on this day is a reflection of how they value you ALL the time. So let's use it wisely:
Celebrate the GOOD: Is your boss amazing? Brag about them publicly! Good workplaces deserve recognition.
Be the Change: Office party a bust? Next year, spearhead it. Show them what a well-organized admin can do!
Advocate with Kindness: If Admin Day highlights what's MISSING support-wise, don't get bitter, get strategic. That "Feel Good File" is your evidence when you calmly discuss what would improve your ability to do great work.
Let's use this day to lift each other up and build workplaces where being an admin isn't just a job, it's a valued role. We got this!
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