When you’re in a PA role, you’re not just the gatekeeper to your executive’s world - you’re also their right-hand person, sounding board, and often, the calm in their storm. The best PAs know it’s not about just doing admin, it’s about adding value. In fact, your input often shapes the entire rhythm of the working day.
But what does that look like in practice?
· Master of time (and miracles)
Let’s face it, diary management isn’t just about popping in a few meetings. It’s more like strategic puzzle-solving, with a sprinkle of diplomacy and the occasional dash of magic. You’re juggling ever-changing priorities, ensuring your executive is in the right place, at the right time, with the right information. That alone takes a sharp mind and eagle-eyed attention to detail. When done well, it means your exec can walk into every meeting fully prepped and ready to shine.
And when last-minute curveballs land - as they always do - you’re there to shuffle, smooth things over, and keep the show on the road. That kind of agility is worth its weight in gold.
· The unofficial advisor
In the best PA jobs in London, you’re not just taking notes, but you’re actively listening, observing, and feeding into decisions. You often know the team dynamics, the client quirks, and the unspoken politics better than anyone else. Because of that, your boss starts to lean on you not just for tasks, but for insights.
You might be asked, “What do you think?” more than you’d expect. Your opinion counts and that’s because you’ve earned your stripes by being plugged in, emotionally intelligent, and commercially aware. You become the eyes and ears, quietly advising behind the scenes. It’s less about the limelight and more about influence.
· The steady hand behind the scenes
While your executive might be making headlines or big calls, you’re often the one laying the groundwork. Whether it’s preparing board packs, liaising with stakeholders, or handling confidential information, your reliability gives others confidence. There’s a sense that if you’re involved, things will go smoothly, and that’s not something every role can claim.
A top-notch PA recruitment agency will tell you that trust is the cornerstone of the best working relationships. Trust is built over time, through consistency, integrity, and a strong moral compass.
· Wearing many hats - and wearing them well
In many PA jobs in London, you’re likely supporting more than one person, across multiple departments or time zones. You’re using tech, navigating competing priorities, and still remembering whose daughter’s birthday is coming up. It’s multitasking on another level.
Yet, through it all, you stay composed and can-do. You adapt to whatever’s thrown your way, with a smile, a solution, and a “no worries, I’ve got this” attitude. That’s why the best execs don’t just want a great PA - they need one.
No wonder a good PA recruitment agency will fight your corner! PAs are the lynchpin holding everything together. To find your next PA job in London, call on 020 7870 7177.