Description

A personal assistant’s job can be varied, depending on what is required by their employer. They may answer phone calls, take messages, take various notes, and schedule meetings. They may also run errands, such as going to the bank to deposit checks on behalf of their employer, picking up lunch, and picking up their children from school. Their job is to provide services that relieve their employer from having to do various tasks.

They must usually have at least a high school diploma. Some employers may require candidates to possess a certificate from a secretarial school. Some employers may only consider personal assistants who like children and/or pets. They may perform a liaison function between their employer and the household staff (including maids, cooks, butlers, and drivers). Personal assistants may have to screen people who want to contact their employer. They may act as the first point of contact for their employer. They make travel arrangements on behalf of their employers. Some employers require that personal assistants travel with them.

Personal assistants must have excellent oral and written communication skills. They must have good interpersonal skills. Some employers require that their personal assistants are comfortable using Microsoft Office. Some employers require that personal assistants possess a valid driver’s license and have clean DMV records. They are often required to pass background and drug tests.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Personal Assistant with 9+ years of experience in Singapore, your main responsibilities include:

  • Manage the executive's calendar, schedule appointments, and coordinate meetings with internal and external stakeholders. Efficiently handle the executive's calendar, ensuring all appointments are scheduled and meetings are well-coordinated.
  • Screen and prioritize incoming emails and phone calls, ensuring that urgent matters reach the executive promptly. Effectively filter and prioritize incoming communication, ensuring that urgent matters are promptly addressed.
  • Prepare and review documents, presentations, and reports, ensuring accuracy and professionalism. Skillfully create, edit, and review documents, presentations, and reports, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and a professional standard.
  • Act as a liaison between the executive and various departments, ensuring efficient communication and coordination.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Personal Assistant job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Excellent organizational skills to manage complex schedules, arrange meetings, and coordinate travel arrangements for the employer.
  • Strong communication abilities, both written and verbal, to effectively interact with clients, stakeholders, and colleagues on behalf of the employer.
  • Proficient computer skills, including knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software, to create and maintain documentation and aid in data analysis.
  • Discretion and confidentiality to handle sensitive information and maintain the privacy and trust of the employer and stakeholders.

Essential Skills For Personal Assistant

1

Database Administration

2

Business Management

Skills That Affect Personal Assistant Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Database Administration

20%

Business Management

1%

Career Prospects

With over 9 years of experience as a Personal Assistant in Singapore, several exciting career paths are available to pursue. Here are following options to consider:

  • Executive Assistant: A role working closely with top-level executives, managing schedules and providing strategic support.
  • Office Manager: A position that involves overseeing administrative tasks, ensuring the smooth running of the office, and managing a team of support staff.
  • Event Coordinator: A role that involves organizing and executing events, managing budgets, and negotiating with vendors.
  • Human Resource Manager: A position focused on managing HR functions, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, benefits administration, and compliance with legal regulations.

How to Learn

The role of a Personal Assistant in Singapore is expected to witness steady growth in the market in the coming years. The job role has seen significant developments over the past decade and is likely to continue evolving, adapting to the changing needs of businesses and professionals. With an increasing number of businesses and individuals seeking administrative support, the demand for Personal Assistants is projected to rise. In the next 10 years, there is a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this field due to the continuous growth of Singapore's economy and the increasing emphasis on organizational efficiency and productivity.