In this instance, honesty and an apology is the best policy.   Approach this subject head on, with honesty and a solution. Ensure you are communicating properly and if you don’t have regular daily catch ups either on the phone, on teams or in person then start now.  Mistakes usually happen due to lack of communication, presumption and possible distraction.  Everyone makes the odd mistake, that’s why it’s called human error and it also will help you learn to put in new and successful processes.  It goes without saying that you need to triple check all moving forwards, to cover off all bases. However, you can also go the extra mile and make sure you are 2 steps ahead of your boss to indicate to them that you really are on top of things.

First impressions really count in an interview setting. Even if the role you are going for might be more casual day to day we would always recommend dressing on the smarter side, ie a smart pair of trousers and blouse. We recommend that you avoid denim and trainers. If interviewing on a video call, it is also important to make sure you are dressed smartly.  

Ensure that you have done plenty of research on the company, this involves looking beyond their website and perhaps looking to explore articles and other sources that mention the company. It is also important to make sure you prepare questions on the company and you role as this shows that you are engaged and interested in the position.

In general people look for relevant industries, not just due to terminology but also due to pace and working environment. Make it clear to your recruiter why you want to move industries and we can advise you in terms of roles and your experience.

The key thing to remember is that it is you who is looking for a new role and to put yourself first. Everyone looks for a new role at some point in their career and will face the same difficulties and work round them. You will need to offer some flexibility and show willingness to interview, this is key. Whether this is you don’t work from home so find a coffee shop down the road from your office that is quiet with good wif where you can interview on your lunch break. If you have the flexibility to work from home, remote interview if possible then and when in the office do an early in person interview. The main point is to explain to a consultant that it is tricky to interview and see how we can help work around this for you, come up with suggestions and be there to support you find your next dream job! 

Have you suggested finding temporary cover whilst you are away? Having a temp in to cover your holiday means your boss will have seamless cover whilst you are away – you can even offer to do a handover and/or hand back to make sure nothing is missed.

Perhaps you could arrange to go out for a coffee or walk away from the office to get to know them on more of a personal level. It may be easier to build a relationship with your colleague in a more relaxed environment.

1. Observe their working style and their daily routine to give you an idea of how to work around their schedule 2. When you start the role, try to find out what your boss finds tedious and time consuming 3. Try and have a daily catch up with your boss to ensure you are both on the same page of priorities for that day – this is your chance to take on some of their to-do list 4. Communication is key – keep them in the loop (either on email or talking) so you are reassuring them that everything is being actioned and taken care of 5. Be confident in your capabilities – you are there to make their life easier so go and show them you are boss! 

It’s great you love your job and the company!  I think we all go through phases of finding our bosses challenging!  My suggestion would be – always try and look at the overall situation (is it a stressful time for your boss, have they just had some bad news etc) and remember that they are human and very rarely is it meant personally, it is just that you are their right hand!  If things get too much – walk away, take a break – sounds cliché but phone a friend or talk to an ally in the office.  However, if it is an ongoing issue and it is getting you down then I would suggest speaking, in confidence, to HR or equivalent.

Keeping it simple is best!  Do include your Education, this can go at the start or the end of your CV, followed by your employment history in chronological order.  Ensure you add in the months as well as the years you were at each company followed by your duties in bullet points.  It is always nice to see any interests you may have as well as your skills and a short personal profile.

A great way to get into a PA role is to progress internally. Find a company that you want to work for and begin as a Team Assistant or Office Administrator and work up into the role once you have established trust and strong relationships in the team. 

Online courses you can do are Pitmans and Suitors and in person 6-month to year-long courses are OMBS and Quest.