CRAIGS JOB LISTING

A good share of being a good admin is putting yourself in the other person's shoes. Ask yourself on a regular basis, "How would I want this done and what response would I expect from someone working for me?"

Your answer to that question is exactly how you should handle the situation/request. Being of value to your client or your boss is invaluably important to job security. But how does one go about creating value? You become more knowledgeable and indispensable. Learn as much as you can about what your boss/client does.

1. Ask questions. Most people are flattered to know that you care enough to ask how they do what they do and why they do it.
2. By learning more and asking more, you will be able to answer questions about the client/boss to his or her potential clients. If you can help him or her along this is way, you will inevitably become indispensable.
3. Make suggestions. If you see ways to improve a particular process or task - whether it creates greater efficiency or saves money - you'll look like the hero.

Offer to save the client/boss money. Everyone - I don't care how rich or poor they are - likes to save money. Don't recommend something you know to be a waste. Instead, offer a better, cheaper, more efficient option.

Practice good will. It goes a long way. A good example: This week a client asked about finding a particular list for him. No problem, I'd researched something similar for another client. I gave him the contact information so he could check it out and perhaps buy the list (from another vendor). He asked,

"Well, how are you going to make money on this?"

My response?

"I won't and I don't need to - all I did was refer you to someone who could help you out."