Message #68002

[Atlanta Z3]

I think if you are going to spend 40 hours a week with someone you need to like and respect them.  Getting to know about their personal life usually comes with the job.  If they have kids - what was the latest funny, problem or award.  The significant other while I don't want to down the details basics like birthdays (for gentle reminders) seem to come with the job.
IMHO part of being a good admin is more than just doing their typing, project management, it's doing what ever it takes to make their life less stressful.  Having said that I draw the line at personal duties like dry cleaning or banking, but my current boss would never ask that of me.  Sometimes we need jsut need  to be there for them to vent, it's not at us personally.
I think you might be short changing yourself by not opening up a little to your boss and chemistry plays a big part in a job.  It's not always the best person that is kept but the team player and the people that are liked.