Developing Professional Skills for Senior Secretaries and Personal Assistants

Course Overview

The role of Executive Secretaries, Personal Assistants, and Administrative professionals continues to evolve as organisations adapt to changing business needs. While their contribution is sometimes undervalued, these professionals play a crucial role in supporting both internal and external operations. They are the backbone of organisational efficiency — ensuring that processes run smoothly, communication flows effectively, and executives can focus on strategic goals.


Key Features

This course will help participants to:

  • Strengthen their professional skills to operate at a more advanced level.
  • Recognise the significance and impact of their role within the organisation.
  • Gain a deeper understanding of the business to perform more effectively.
  • Master communication techniques for personal and organisational benefit.
  • Develop strong interpersonal skills to enhance teamwork and workplace relationships.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

  • Refine and build upon their existing professional skills.
  • Redefine and expand their roles to add greater value.
  • Write clear, persuasive, and professional correspondence.
  • Deliver confident and memorable presentations.
  • Adopt a proactive and solution-oriented approach to work.
  • Strengthen their understanding of business operations and decision-making.
  • Learn techniques for managing and supporting their managers effectively.
  • Apply interpersonal intelligence to improve collaboration and workplace dynamics.
  • Take greater control over their time, workload, and productivity.

Target Audience

This program is designed for Personal Assistants, Executive Secretaries, and Administrative Professionals who wish to grow, enhance their influence, and contribute more strategically to their organisation.


Training Methodology

This course follows a highly interactive, discussion-based approach. Participants will engage in group discussions, role plays, and practical exercises that reflect real workplace challenges. Delegates will be encouraged to share experiences, exchange insights, and collaborate on strategies for personal and professional development.
Pre- and post-course assessments will be used to evaluate learning outcomes and progress.


Course Modules

Module 1 – Building on Existing Skills

Key Topics:

  • Defining and understanding your role.
  • Enhancing organisational and multitasking skills.
  • Planning and prioritising tasks effectively.
  • Managing time and pressure efficiently.
  • Delivering excellent customer service and mastering telephone etiquette.

Module 2 – Developing the Role

Key Topics:

  • Becoming proactive and taking ownership of your workload.
  • Expanding your knowledge and understanding of business operations.
  • Embracing and adapting to change in the workplace.
  • Setting realistic and measurable goals.

Module 3 – The Importance and Value of Communication Skills

Key Topics:

  • Understanding why communication is critical to success.
  • Developing assertiveness in the workplace.
  • Effective delegation and task management.
  • Active listening and empathy in professional communication.
  • Writing clear, impactful business letters and emails.
  • Structuring reports and presenting information effectively.
  • Delivering engaging and professional presentations.

Module 4 – Managing Your Manager and Raising Your Profile

Key Topics:

  • Managing your professional image and reputation.
  • Building and maintaining a strong working relationship with your manager.
  • Understanding mutual expectations and communication styles.
  • Increasing your effectiveness and confidence in meetings.
  • Enhancing self-confidence and teamwork skills.
  • Supporting your manager’s priorities through effective coordination and initiative.

Module 5 – Interpersonal Intelligence

Key Topics:

  • Understanding and adapting to different personality types.
  • Communicating with clarity and confidence.
  • Expressing needs assertively and respectfully.
  • Giving and receiving constructive feedback.
  • Influencing others and resolving conflicts professionally.
  • Collaborating effectively as part of a team.
  • Demonstrating flexibility and emotional intelligence at work.