This month we speak with Sophia, who is currently temping through Oriel Partners. We asked Sophia 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?
I enjoy being organised and being the go-to person for my Executives. Being a PA to busy Directors means that no two days will be the same, which is what makes the job exciting and challenging as you never know what’s going to come your way.
Q2. Tell us what it is like working in your current industry?
Working in professional services can be really fast paced as a lot of things can be happening in one go meaning you are being pulled in different directions. This can be challenging but rewarding as it has taught me to be versatile and adaptable and has led me to develop great relationships with different people I come across in my industry.
Q3. What are the biggest challenges in your role?
Definitely juggling the changing priorities as my Executive’s workday changes every day so making sure I am proactive as well as reactive to keep on top of everything.
Q4. How did you become a PA?
I graduated from University with a degree in Accounting and had worked a few summer jobs while at University in various Finance departments but realised very quickly that I couldn’t see myself working in Accounting after I graduate. I took on various temp jobs after University working in Administration, which is when I landed my first permanent role working for a publishing company as a PA to the Managing Director and have never looked back since. I enjoy being a PA and see myself doing it for a very long time.
Q5. What advice would you give to someone looking to start their PA career?
Try and work for a variety of different companies in different industries to figure out whether you like the more corporate side of things or prefer a more creative environment. Set yourself goals in what you would like to achieve within your role and learn to communicate in the best way possible.
Q6. What couldn’t you live without in your daily role?
My calendar on Outlook, I could not function without it day to day!
Q7. What is the best career advice you have ever been given?
The best career advice I received was that networking is key. Building as many professional relationships as possible with people within your industry and outside of it is always beneficial and LinkedIn makes that even easier to do.
Q8. When you are not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and the foodie in me always loves trying out any new restaurants in my area!
Q9. What is the hardest interview question you have ever been asked?
“What did you enjoy the least in your previous role?” This is one I have struggled with in the past because it’s hard to answer when you have thoroughly enjoyed everything in your last role but have to pick something that you liked the least!
