What is the job of a personal secretary?

Thinking about different career options, and the role of a personal secretary caught my eye. What are their main job duties and is it a good career choice after high school?

A personal secretary, often referred to as a personal assistant or executive assistant, mainly perform administrative tasks for individuals and organizations. Their main job responsibilities can include coordinating appointments, maintaining files, drafting correspondence, and organizing travel arrangements on behalf of the individual they are working for.

These secretaries usually work closely with executives and upper-level management, meaning they may be privy to sensitive information and have heavy responsibilities. Confidentiality and professionalism are key traits to excel in this role. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, also come in handy.

It's worth noting that this role often requires advanced computer skills and the ability to multitask, since secretaries are commonly handling several projects at once. A personal secretary may sometimes work overtime, especially when working for busy executives, but some roles offer more standard office hours.

As for it being a good option right after high school, it could be, but keep in mind that many employers commonly look for candidates with bachelor's degrees in business or a similar field. Others might value work experience over formal education and seek candidates with experience in administrative roles.

However, that's not to say you cannot begin building those necessary skills right out of high school. You could take up part-time jobs or internships where you handle administrative tasks, work on your communication and organizational skills, and boost your familiarity with standard office software. Careers aren't necessarily a straight path, and gaining experience in real-world settings can be equally beneficial as pursuing higher education.