“Since graduating from this Programme I’ve progressed in my role as a PA, a secondment as an EA and I have now secured my dream role as an EA.“
Natalie Douglas, an experienced professional working with Save the Children for eight years, embarked on a transformative journey that has reshaped her understanding and expertise as an Executive Assistant. Natalie’s story offers insights into the challenges she faced, her experiences with The Essential PA Programme, and the tangible results and newfound confidence she has acquired since graduating from the Programme.
The Initial Dilemma
Upon her introduction to the PA role, Natalie admitted to having certain misconceptions. “When I first went into the PA world, I was thinking it was just going to be basic admin stuff.” This is a sentiment shared by many, often mistaking the role for rudimentary tasks. It was clear that Natalie was searching for clarity about her role and the expertise she needed to excel.
Diving into The Essential PA Programme
A colleague who had graduated from The Mini MBA Programme introduced Natalie to Your Excellency and recommended she undertake The Essential PA Programme. Upon researching the Programme, the learning piqued Natalie’s interest as it seemed to address her challenges and identified knowledge gaps. “I looked into it, and thought this was a perfect fit,” Natalie recounts.
As Natalie delved into the Programme further, she discovered the depth that the learning covered. One particularly impactful lesson for Natalie was understanding the art of communication and setting boundaries. She enthusiastically shared, “My favourite takeaway from this Programme is how to say “no”. I feel really empowered now. Lindsay has really instilled the confidence in me to be able to say, ‘I can help you, however…”
Natalie’s experience with Lindsay, the lead facilitator of the Programme was another highlight. “Lindsay’s been so understanding and adaptable to my needs. Lindsay can tailor the Programme to individual learning styles and she does it so well.”
A Cohort of Learning and Networking
Being a part of a Cohort added to the whole experience for Natalie. “Interacting with other PAs and EAs that are in different sectors was a real eye-opener for me.” The cross-industry interactions provided a diverse range of perspectives, allowing her to gather valuable insights and even form friendships. Natalie emphasised, “Expanding your network is really important for this industry.”
Emerging Transformed
Having completed The Essential PA Programme and achieving a recognised Ofqual regulated qualification, Natalie emerged with a comprehensive understanding of the profession together with a toolkit of skills to implement in her role on a daily basis. “This Programme really helped me think about my role a lot differently… It really helps set a grounding for being an EA and allows you to build on all of the skills that you’ve learned. Since graduating from this Programme I’ve progressed in my role as a PA, a secondment as an EA and I have now secured my dream role as an EA.”
She didn’t just keep this newfound knowledge to herself. “I’ve been sharing my learnings with other coordinators that want to get into the industry, and they’ve been loving it,” Natalie explained, underscoring the ripple effect of her transformative experience.
Conclusion
Natalie’s journey from uncertainty to empowerment through The Essential PA Programme paints a vivid picture of the potential this Programme holds. Through her story, we see the transformation of a professional seeking clarity, gaining invaluable insights, and emerging as a confident and competent Executive Assistant, ready to excel in the diverse demands of the EA profession.
Watch Natalie’s full learner story video on YouTube below.
Read Natalie’s comments from LinkedIn about her recent experiences having studied the Mini MBA and Essential PA Programme.
