This article is part of a series published on our LinkedIn account by guest writers. Today's article was written by Muriel Poncin, IMA Belgium  on 22nd October 2024.

As the Training & Education Officer for IMA Belgium, I’m excited to combine my background as both an assistant and a teacher, keeping my two passions alive and thriving. 

In my role as an Executive Assistant, I’ve had the chance to develop strong organizational skills and gain valuable experience in ensuring that everything runs smoothly. It’s a job where you’re constantly on your toes, anticipating needs, adapting to changes, and juggling multiple priorities. No two days are the same! But what fuels me just as much is my commitment to education. That’s why I regularly visit schools that train future assistants and office managers, sharing my real-world insights through interactive, hands-on presentations. 

One of the best parts of these school visits is the chance to connect with students and engage with their questions. What I’ve noticed, though, is that many of them often choose this career out of frustration or uncertainty, seeing it as a fallback option rather than a career they’re truly passionate about. They’re sometimes unsure about the potential these roles offer or unaware of how impactful these positions can be. 

Through my presentations and interactions, I aim to shift that mindset. I love showing students that these roles are far from routine; they’re dynamic, strategic, and absolutely crucial to an organization’s success.From managing high-stakes projects to being the backbone of decision-making processes, assistants and office managers have the opportunity to make a real difference. 

I’ve seen their faces light up when they realize the incredible variety in this career: one day, you’re coordinating a major event; the next, you’re solving unexpected problems and ensuring smooth operations. It’s so rewarding to witness that moment when their outlook changes, and what may have seemed like a “default” career choice suddenly becomes an exciting and fulfilling path with plenty of room for growth. 

For me, bridging the gap between the classroom and the workplace is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job. My goal is to inspire students, give them practical insights they can carry into their careers, and help them see the limitless possibilities that come with being an assistant or office manager. 

This isn’t just a job; it’s a career full of challenges, opportunities, and the potential to make a real impact. 

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This article is penned by Muriel Poncin, Executive Assistant at UCB and a member of IMA Belgium. 

The Guest Writer series features contributions from IMA members worldwide, showcasing the diverse experiences and expertise of management assistants within our network. Each piece offers unique perspectives, practical advice, and personal reflections from professionals in the field. The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author. 

 

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