Admins Would Like – but Don't Expect – Recognition

April 19, 2004 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Whether you call them secretaries, administrative professionals, or just downright essential, you'll want to mark your calendars this week.

That’s right, April 19-23 has officially been deemed Administrative Professionals Week, and according to a survey by office supply provider Quill Corp., only about a quarter “absolutely” expect to be thanked or remembered, and a nearly identical 24.2% say “not at all” (27.9% say “I think so,” while 23.1% say “I think not”). If that response seems a bit tepid, consider this: Only about 60% of those administrative professionals know the week is approaching.

Among administrative professionals surveyed, 41% said they didn’t expect a gift, other than a simple “thank you.” Those expecting a gift were expecting:

  • 40% – taken out for a meal,
  • 25% – flowers,
  • 24% – gift certificate,
  • 7% – gift for office or home,
  • 3% – personal care product or ,
  • 1% – candy.

If you’re having trouble coming up with an idea for a gift, consider this: Asked their preference, more than half (55%) of the administrative professionals said they would prefer a gift certificate. Other preferences included:

  • 18% – taken out for a meal,
  • 14% – flowers,
  • 7% – gift for office or home,
  • 5% – personal care product or ,
  • 1% – candy.

To characterize office dynamics, Quill also asked respondents to compare their workplace to a popular TV show. They said:

  • 27% – “Oprah” … encouraging and supportive;
  • 27% – “Friends” … strong, engaging personalities;
  • 13% – “Less than Perfect” … overworked, underpaid;
  • 12% – “Survivor” … working hard to keep your torch lit;
  • 12% – “According to Jim” … the boss isn’t truly in control but he/she might think he/she is;
  • 8% – “CSI” … it’s a mystery where everyone is most of the time;
  • 1% – “Fear Factor” … one horrifying task after another.

Recognition on this particular week notwithstanding, the Quill survey did find that 83% of administrative professionals feel appreciated for their work.

The survey was conducted by Lincolnshire, Illinois-based Quill in March 2004, among more than 1,100 secretaries and administrative professionals.

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