With the events of September 11 a couple of weeks behind us, there certainly are a lot of heroes -- all of those who have taken the time to help those in need after this tragedy, whether it be those who have lost their lives in trying to save someone else, those who have given blood, those who have given financial support, those who have spent hours at ground zero looking for survivors, etc.  



What about the people who were trying to get out of the building who may have been disabled or whatever and all the people who went right past them and didn't help in any way?  I don't know exactly what I would do in such a situation but if I saw someone in need trying to get out and they were having problems, I would try to help.  What would you do?



I see the sudden surge in patriotism but how united are we Americans?  I saw the long lines at the gas pumps on September 11 and the way people acted.  They wanted as much gas as they could get their hands with no regard for anyone else.  Police had to be called to a couple stations because some people couldn't get their way.



There are many people who are caring about their fellow man and they came out in this time of need.  Unfortunately, there are also many who are not.  Many incidents of hate against different races.  So many people out there hung up on material possessions: huge expensive SUVs, boats, huge houses, huge televisions, etc.  It's sad.  



We need to remain positive in the light of all the bad things happening in this world.  If/when something worse happens, I would hope that more and more people see the light of what life is really all about and react accordingly.



Just my thoughts on this mid-week evening working late...  

From one newbie to another, how are you?

I forgot to mention, paid holidays, personal time off, and vacation which accrues right from day one.  Health and dental started on the first day too.  How could I miss those benefits?

I am fortunate:



1.  Guaranteed annual raises (in above average amounts)

2.  Company-paid health and dental plans

3.  Optional vision plan

4.  Paid short and long-term disability

5.  Paid life insurance

5.  401(k) / ESOP

6.  Legal services plan

7.  Employee assistance program

8.  Tuition reimbursement (up to $5,000 per year)

9.  Pay dues for professional organization membership



As a manager, I also get a corporate credit card, calling card, expense account, car phone, and laptop computer.



What more can a girl ask for?  

I mentioned the main benefits I receive in my prior posting.  One thing I failed to mentioned is that my employee has a health care reimbursement account (cafeteria plan) in which my employer contributes an additional $300 towards each year.  Our corporate office, which is in another state, has a large child care center and a health club on site.  I work at a branch office which does not have these amenities, but we do get substantial discounts to local health clubs.  We also get numerous other discounts, including discounts on new automobiles through Ford Motor Company and discounts on furniture.  We also get a packet full of recreational discounts on hotel and travel, movie tickets, theme parks, etc.  Last but not least, we have a new employee referral bonus which pays up to $3,000.  I feel very lucky!        

Thanks!  This year we're doing the amusement parks, which has been the case the past 3-4 years.  Christmas parties are at a country club and the other at a ritzy hotel.  I'm just looking for that "out of the ordinary" thing to do.  I don't want to do the same old thing.  Do you know what I mean?  I'm looking ahead for the upcoming years.  Our budget is pretty generous.

Hello everyone!  Happy Friday to those who are here at the site!  Where I am it's about 90 degrees and muggy so many people are outside.  In my new position, I have the responsibility of planning and organizing the company picnics and christmas parties for two branch offices.  NO SMALL FEAT!  Does anyone else here do this type of activity?  What sources of information do you use?  Do you have any books that have helped you?  Web sites that you use?  Periodicals that you subscribe to?

Big congrats to all those who are being proactive and propelling their careers into new directions!  I have my CPS and will take the CAP at some point.  I'm going to get a college degree which I do not have yet - I've had to go the long and hard way to get the respect.  Persistence is the key so keep that in mind!

Just noticing through many of the posts that there are a number of "admins" out there dreaming about something better.  That's great!  What I would like to see more of at this site is what "admins" are actually doing to make their dreams come true.  The reason I say this is because I have finally risen through the ranks of admin to manager status and I know from experience that you can talk all you want about what you would like to have and what you would like to see changed, etc. but the only way to make things happen is to put your words into action.  I like to hear from you all about what you have done or are doing to make your dreams come true.  What strides have you made in the workplace?      

I'd have to say that IAAP is still the top organization for administrative professionals.  They have a top notch monthly magazine called Office Pro and great educational opportunities from the chapter level to the international level.  Attending the international convention is the best opportunity to network with peers in many different states as well as countries!  You never know who'll you run into.  Top notch!  I also have to say that for legal professionals, NALS is top of the heap.  Leadership and self development opportunities abound.  Participation in professional associations like this has helped to take me to where I am today.  

Each and every thing no how big or how small in making headway with our bosses is a good thing.  Way to go!

I have to say that I now have my "dream" desk not to mention my own "dream" office.  I have a corner office with large windows behind me and to the side of me.  The only thing is that it overlooks the main highway (rather noisy)...but outside is outside!  I can adjust the blinds if it gets too bright!  My desk is wood (it's reddish - I'm sorry I don't know types of wood) with a large hutch.  I have navy textured coordinating chairs.  The office is spacious and I have a few plants.  Not yet decorated it (I love motivational items so I'll probably put my pictures up that I've bought from Successories and other places).  

not to lie about making mistakes (because everyone makes them) and to be accountable for your actions?  

My boss along with most everyone else uses my first name when referring me to others, except for the admin who sometimes uses my first name but usually says "my boss".



I have to say that over the course of my career I've been called a number of things, including Radar -- everything from "my secretary", "my clerk", "my assistant", etc.



If you don't like what you're being called, say something about it (tactfully and professionally of course).  



 

I recently was promoted to Lead Administrator and received a 30% raise.  The company treats administrative personnel very well with the annual norm for raises being 8-15%.  The percentage for management like myself is higher so I am so grateful to have this job -- it's something to look forward to and it makes a person feel good to be recognized financially for their hard work.  That hasn't always been the case for me.