Administrative Professionals Day

Administrative Professionals' Day History

Administrative Professionals' Day honours the contribution of administrative professionals to the successful operation of businesses and organizations. Diverse job titles, including secretaries, administrative assistants, and executive assistants to name a few, form this significant workforce segment. The occasion serves as an opportunity to express appreciation for these individuals' dedication and hard work, as they often oversee multiple roles that ensure smooth-running operations.

The observance, originally named National Secretaries Day, was introduced in the US in the early 1950s. It was later extended to administrative professionals of all kinds and its recognition reached Canada where a similar need to acknowledge such professionals was felt. For Canadians, Administrative Professionals' Day has become an important gesture acknowledging the efforts of these essential workers. Celebrations often include thank-you cards, social gatherings, and even professional development opportunities.

In the Canadian context, Administrative Professionals' Day is typically observed in businesses and organizations through a variety of activities. These can range from individual expressions of gratitude from colleagues and superiors, to company-wide events where the whole team celebrates together. In recent times, the observance has evolved to include online appreciation events, seminars, and webinars. In Canada, like in the US, Administrative Professionals' Day falls on the last full week of April, more specifically on the Wednesday of that week.

Facts about Administrative Professionals Day

• The original Secretaries Day was designed to attract potential employees. It was thought that this would help alleviate the skilled office worker shortage.
• Always be nice to secretaries. They are the real gatekeepers in the world - Anthony J. D'Angelo
• As per the Canadian government's Job Bank, the median salary for administrative assistants was $23.56 per hour, as of Aug 2021. However, the pay can vary widely depending on the industry, level of experience, and the scope of responsibilities.
• While a high school diploma is often necessary, many administrative professionals in Canada possess further qualifications, such as a diploma in Office Administration or a related field. Also, Certification such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) can provide an edge in the job market.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Administrative Professionals Day

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• If you are an employer, provide a business-related gift to your administrative support staff.
• Attend a seminar or conference to expand your administrative capabilities.
• Spa Day or Wellness Gift: Some employers might gift a day at the spa or a wellness package to their admins to show appreciation and promote employee well-being.
• Read a book to learn more about Administrative Professionals' in Canada:
  1) The Administrative Professional: Procedures and Skills - by Patsy Fulton-Calkins and Dianne Rankin
  2) The Definitive Personal Assistant & Secretarial Handbook: A Best Practice Guide for All Secretaries, Pas, Office Managers and Executive - by Sue France