Blog

by Tray Durrant - February 09, 2024

Introducing one of our most highly anticipated blogs to date. And it’s no surprise! Many of us have been raised with the belief that talking about money is a taboo - the idea of even hinting at a potential pay rise comes with a large side of anxiety. Is it normal to ask for a raise? In short…absolutely! It is not a favour or a gift! It is a symbolic recognition that you are contributing at a higher level than when your salary was initially set.

by Claire Gray - February 08, 2024

Job satisfaction is a critical ingredient to a thriving workplace, influencing both employees and employers. For employees, it stimulates feelings of fulfilment derived from various facets of the job such as the work environment, relationships with colleagues and management, opportunities for growth and compensation. Dissatisfied employees actually pose significant risks, including reduced productivity and increased turnover.

by Claire Gray - January 25, 2024

This sentence continues to surprise many: creating a positive and productive work environment hinges on the fundamental concept of accountability. When individuals fail to take ownership of decision-making, problem-solving, and addressing issues, tasks can often go unfinished, and goals can go unmet. When you are an assistant, the pursuit of accountability extends beyond completing tasks on time. It involves taking ownership of responsibilities and their outcomes!

by Julia - January 18, 2024

In order to kick-start our relationship, Astriid provided us with a hugely informative training session on invisible disabilities and long-term conditions in the work place. In this session we covered what these disabilities look like, how employers can be more supportive and the barriers in place for those with long-term conditions.

by Tray Durrant - January 10, 2024

Are you, perhaps, one of the many assessing their current satisfaction levels in career? Is it time for a fresh start? Even with our job board picking up when it come to opportunities, as a PA or EA it is essential you maintain a positive and professional reputation. The world is small, and you do not want to upset your current employer! This is a guide to help you prepare to say goodbye gracefully.

by Claire Gray - December 22, 2023

In the spirit of our festive pause, Bain and Gray are taking a break from social media until the 2nd! Before we sign off, we gift you our winter book recommendations. Get ready to slip into your cosiest socks, clutch a favourite hot chocolate, and embark on a magical journey to other worlds.

by Claire Gray - December 20, 2023

2023 has been another eventful and exciting year at Bain and Gray. Looking back at the start of the year I can hardly believe how much has happened, but I want to mention as much of it as possible, because Bain and Gray would not be where it is now without any of it.

by Emily Bain - December 12, 2023

People have trouble differentiating between a Personal Assistant (PA) and an Executive Assistant (EA). The technical difference comes down to the level of responsibility, with the roles containing overlap. While being an Executive Assistant is seen as a 'step up' within the profession, those working in Personal Assistant positions often have similar roles and responsibilities.

by Tray Durrant - December 11, 2023

Our latest episode of Links Bitesize with Tray Durrant and Founder and Director, Claire Gray unpacks the dynamic job market in our Salary Survey special. Explore the surge in job applications, pay trends over the last 6 months, and the future of hybrid roles. Discover the keys to effective staff retention through comprehensive benefits and upskilling. Plus, get insights into cutting-edge recruitment strategies fostering equity, diversity, and inclusion.

by Claire Gray - December 01, 2023

Have you had a chance to glimpse at our latest salary survey? In the data captured from placements made by Bain and Gray over the last 6 months, we have noticed that the volume of receptionist jobs has declined. From our observation, this role has become absorbed into a wider administrative role to fit the needs of businesses in a post-pandemic world.

by Claire Gray - November 24, 2023

Hybrid and flexible working have long been a topic of much debate. Our most recent salary survey states that 58% of employees are currently working in hybrid roles whilst 34% are in the office full time. Back in March 2021, the UK began phasing out of the lockdown. Today, we stand on the doorsteps of 2024 and witness specific industries (with major firms such as JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs) demand a return to the five-day-a-week model.

by Claire Gray - September 20, 2023

Did you know that an admin job is one of the best ways to gain invaluable experience within an office environment? We are delighted to share our expertise to help you land your first administrative position.

by Hetty - September 13, 2023

As a business we are making a collective movement to reduce our carbon footprint with the aim to achieve carbon neutrality (no mean feat!).

by Claire Gray - September 01, 2023

A performance review can be a formal and totally nerve-wracking process, but with a bit of preparation and guidance it's a walk in the park. Read more here.

by Livvy Bushell - August 24, 2023

by Claire Gray - August 23, 2023

by Tray Durrant - August 17, 2023

by Tray Durrant - August 10, 2023