Before I hired my current administrative assistant, Adam, I spent considerable time thinking about the qualities I was looking for in this individual. With some specific requirements in mind, I had the framework to begin praying for my Elisha.While everyone’s needs differ, my experience has shown that there are certain qualities that every great Elisha will have.
Organizational Skills
Every great assistant must have strong organizational skills. I rely on Adam to write and answer emails, order supplies, request space for meetings, place requisitions, attend meetings and other important organizational tasks. An assistant who has trouble keeping the workflow organized and things in order can often result in more work rather than less.
Work Ethic
In Minnesota one of the highest compliments that can be paid is that someone 'is a good worker'. Because much of our community outreach projects are labor intensive, sweat is just part of the job. Adam comes to work on time and doesn't leave until it's done. When Elijah hired Elisha he was tending cattle. If possible, hire a farm kid.
Pleasant Telephone Manner
Because not all calls need my personal attention, I ask Adam to answer calls for our department and sometimes to return calls for me. His telephone manner forms the basis of the first impression that many callers have of our department. A great assistant has a pleasant telephone voice and communicates clearly and politely.
Multitasking Ability
Our community outreach department extends ministry in several different directions at once. For that reason a great assistant must be able to manage different types of assignments and projects concomitantly. This requires a good memory and the ability to prioritize according to deadlines and available resources.
To use a military analogy, a great assistant makes your department more effective by fighting today’s skirmishes, so you can strategize for tomorrow's battle.
Customer Service
Strong customer service skills are vital for an effective assistant. It is important to hire an individual whose communication skills are in sync with the type of service you take pride in providing to your customers. Because I trust Adam’s ability in this area, I am able to delegate some of my responsibility for customer service to him. I know he will represent our department well.
Elisha committed himself to help Elijah fulfill God's plan. His reward was a double portion of God's blessing.
Because not all calls need my personal attention, I ask Adam to answer calls for our department and sometimes to return calls for me. His telephone manner forms the basis of the first impression that many callers have of our department. A great assistant has a pleasant telephone voice and communicates clearly and politely.
Multitasking Ability
Our community outreach department extends ministry in several different directions at once. For that reason a great assistant must be able to manage different types of assignments and projects concomitantly. This requires a good memory and the ability to prioritize according to deadlines and available resources.
To use a military analogy, a great assistant makes your department more effective by fighting today’s skirmishes, so you can strategize for tomorrow's battle.
Customer Service
Strong customer service skills are vital for an effective assistant. It is important to hire an individual whose communication skills are in sync with the type of service you take pride in providing to your customers. Because I trust Adam’s ability in this area, I am able to delegate some of my responsibility for customer service to him. I know he will represent our department well.
Elisha committed himself to help Elijah fulfill God's plan. His reward was a double portion of God's blessing.
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