This month we talk to Natalie, who is a Senior PA working in the financial services sector. We asked Natalie some questions to find out what she enjoys the most about her role and how she got to where she is today.
Q1. WHAT DO YOU ENJOY THE MOST ABOUT BEING A PA?
Being a PA is such a varied role, for me, I find that no two days are the same and I enjoy doing something different every day.
Q2. TELL US WHAT IT IS LIKE WORKING IN YOUR CURRENT INDUSTRY?
Working for a private equity company is a really busy role and can be demanding but if you prioritise your work load efficiently it really helps!
Q3. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN YOUR ROLE?
Working for very busy Directors with complex diaries, sometimes you need to re arrange meetings that have taken a while to sort out but it’s just one of those things that comes up now and again.
Q4. HOW DID YOU BECOME A PA?
I worked for an investment management company in the admin team and a promotion came up for a PA & Office Manager role which I went for and got!
Q5. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO SOMEONE LOOKING TO START THEIR PA CAREER?
You might need to start from the bottom and work your way up to your desired role but stick with it as hard work does pay off! Also have a think about what industry sector you want to work in.
Q6. WHICH APPS & TOOLS CAN’T YOU LIVE WITHOUT IN YOUR DAILY ROLE?
My emails, calendar, note pad and phone!!
Q7. WHAT IS THE BEST CAREER ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN GIVEN?
Always ask questions to make sure you are clear on what has been instructed/asked!
Q8. What is your biggest professional achievement?
Being promoted to PA & Office Manager it was a great achievement.
Q9. WHEN YOU ARE NOT AT WORK, WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING AND WHERE?
I love taking my two young children on days out, going shopping, going out for dinner
and drinks, going on holiday, spending time with family and friends.
Q10. WHAT IS THE HARDEST INTERVIEW QUESTION YOU HAVE EVER BEEN ASKED?
Negative questions e.g. what is your weakness as people tend to give rehearsed lines (myself included!) as you want to stand the best chance possible of getting the job so you don’t want to hinder that in anyway!!
Q11. WHERE DO YOU GO TO UNWIND & RELAX?
I rarely get to do this!! I recently had some beauty treatments which was a real treat and very relaxing!
