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Submitted by amlryan on
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I just received approval to hire an Admin! I am really excited about this and have been been preparing by listening to the podcasts that offer instruction on the relationship and role of an Admin. I now understand the magnitude of this hiring decision and want to make sure I get it right. I would appreciate input on what to look for and what to look out for. I would also like to get some advice on working with an Admin for the first time. Thanks, and thanks to MT for helping me to become effective enough to justify an Admin. Aaron

430jan's picture

Wow, that is a fantastic. There are a lot of podcasts on admins, which it sounds like you have found. I think that if this admin is yours alone it is important to know how you function. If you haven't read/listened up on DISC then for sure know how you fit in that profile. You want someone that will complement your needs, not a "mini-me". Also if you have not listened to the podcast "Pay Better Attention" do that. It describes how to get a quick read on an individual's behavior tendencies and you'll need that to hire well. It's here http://www.manager-tools.com/2006/11/pay-better-attention

You have to hire well, make sure that he or she knows the overall mission of the agency and commence with the trinity. In time you will use the delegation strategies, but at first it is going to increase your workload. Long-term gain. Easy! Not!

Janet

mdave's picture

Once you get one and they are fitting in, I would suggest giving them the latitude to (in addition to your well communicated out list of responsbilities) suggest to you additional ways that they can be an asset to you. My admin has made some great suggestions which 1) I never considered, or 2) I thought about but did not want to be "abusing" them.  My admin has made my work life so much more effective!

wdywft's picture

"Once you get one and they are fitting in, I would suggest giving them the latitude to (in addition to your well communicated out list of responsbilities) suggest to you additional ways that they can be an asset to you."

That is so true... I used to be an executive admin and was lucky enough to fit in with my boss' personality. That made the stressful work a lot easier to endure; especially the overtime. Make sure you communicate clearly and don't procrastinate making decisions. Give him/her "the latitude to suggest to you additional ways that they can be an asset to you" - absolutely great tip!

I would say the main three things to look out for are:

He/she should

1. work very very hard and enjoy it

2. have a good sense of humor

3. be able to translate ideas into action

jhack's picture

Use the podcasts (both Manager Tools and Career Tools) regarding interviewing to become a better interviewer.  The Weakness Question podcast, for example,  will also tell you, the hiring manager, what a great answer sounds like.   http://www.manager-tools.com/podcasts/all-podcasts?filter0=23

If you spring for the interview series, you'll be in even better shape.  http://www.manager-tools.com/interviewing-series

Finally, listen to the podcasts on hiring:  http://www.manager-tools.com/podcasts/all-podcasts?filter0=22

John Hack

amlryan's picture
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Thank-you for the comments I appreciate you taking the time to pass on your ideas.

Aaron