Often the behind-the-scenes superstars of their office, it isn’t uncommon for companies to overlook their PAs, EAs, and other administrative staff when it comes to training and professional development. However, as the job expectations of executive support staff evolve, development opportunities are more important than ever. Both the Institute of Administrative Management (IAM) and office* are united in their efforts to ensure these professionals receive recognised training.
The IAM was established in 1915 and was originally known as the Office Machinery Users Association. The IAM’s purpose is to champion professionals in the fields of administration and management and to also provide benefits and services that support members’ professional and career development. Our focus on supporting and developing our members means that we have a dedicated Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme throughout the year and in locations around the country. We work with some of the top speakers in the UK, many of whom will also be speaking and exhibiting at the office* show.
CPD accreditation is a key indicator of professionally respected training and development. Spanning the full spectrum of industries, it is applicable, and valuable to individuals of all levels, job roles and responsibilities. The importance of CPD should not be underestimated – it is a career-long obligation for practicing professionals and it demonstrates that we take a personal responsibility to keep our knowledge and skills current so that we can deliver a high quality of service.
To resonate with this, all office* training sessions are CPD accredited – ensuring that development gained by attendees is valued upon return to their workplace. Furthermore, office* training sessions are optional additions to the complimentary show; this enables visitors to select just the training that is applicable to their specific requirements.
One such session will be provided by IAM’s General Manager, Andrew Jardine. “How do YOU solve problems?” This session focuses on how our brain solves problems, both intuitively and rationally. We will explore the impact of these styles on understanding and creativity and learn how to use them together to achieve better results and be more innovative. The talk is highly interactive, fast-paced and fun and leaves you with a much better understanding of your problem-solving style and preferences.
The next edition of office* will be 28th February – 1st March 2018, at Olympia, London. Complimentary show registration launches 15th November, on the office* website (www.officeshow.co.uk). Bookings for the CPD training sessions also go live at this time, book early to guarantee a space on your preferred training sessions.
Meanwhile the IAM continues to work within the industry to raise the standards and profile of administrative and management professionals and offer members ways to develop their careers.
Remember to look for the IAM at the office* show and promise yourself some professional ‘me-time’ in 2018. Start the year with a commitment to your own development and take advantage of the great opportunities at the office* show to increase your knowledge, skills and confidence.
