The appeal of becoming a private PA (personal assistant) has grown in recent years. This role offers a unique opportunity to work closely with high-net-worth individuals, families, or private households, providing a dynamic and often rewarding career.
Are you intrigued about the diversity and personal nature of this role? Read on to learn exactly what being a Private PA entails and what it takes to excel as one.
What Does A Private Personal Assistant Do?
A private PA helps their employer’s personal and professional run smoothly. In addition to administrative tasks, private PAs need to be discrete and adaptable, able to manage confidential information and ever-changing plans.
The day-to-day responsibilities of a private personal assistant can vary greatly depending on the employer's needs but generally include:
Diary Management
- Scheduling appointments and meetings.
- Keeping the calendar updated.
- Sending reminders for important events.
Organising Travel Arrangements
- Booking flights, hotels, and transportation.
- Planning itineraries for overseas and domestic trips.
- Handling travel-related paperwork like visas and insurance.
Handling Correspondence
- Managing emails, post and deliveries.
- Drafting letters and documents.
- Liaising with clients, vendors, and other external parties.
Managing Household Staff (if applicable)
- Coordinating with cleaners, gardeners, chefs, and other staff.
- Overseeing household maintenance and repairs.
- Organising staff schedules and duties.
Working with High-Profile Individuals
- Discretion and confidentiality are essential when supporting high-profile individuals.
- Be prepared to handle unique challenges, such as last-minute travel or media interactions.
- Emotional intelligence and adaptability are key to managing demanding schedules and adapting plans at short notice.
- Helping to organise their personal life.
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Essential Skills and Qualifications for a Private PA
While there are no strict entry requirements for becoming a private PA, possessing certain qualifications and skills can significantly enhance your prospects in this competitive field.
Background in Administrative Roles
- Experience as an executive assistant or in other administrative support jobs is highly beneficial.
- Familiarity with office management and administrative tasks.
- Proven track record of efficiency in a support role.
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Educational Qualifications
- Degrees or certifications in business administration, communication, or related fields.
- Relevant coursework or training in office management, technology use, and business communication.
- Continuous professional development through PA workshops, courses and seminars to stay updated with the latest industry practices.
However, beyond these tangible qualifications, the role of a private PA is greatly enhanced by a set of soft skills that are crucial for success in this field.
Exceptional Organisational Abilities
- Skill in managing multiple tasks and priorities efficiently.
- Aptitude for creating systems and processes to streamline workflow.
- Capability to maintain order and structure in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent Communication Skills
- Proficiency in both verbal and written communication.
- Ability to liaise effectively with various stakeholders, including staff, vendors, and clients.
Discretion and Confidentiality
- Understanding the importance of privacy in personal and professional matters.
- Experience in handling confidential information with utmost discretion.
- Trustworthiness and integrity in all aspects of the job.
Anticipating Employer Needs
- Ability to foresee and address the needs of the employer proactively.
- Sensitivity to the preferences and requirements of the employer.
- Flexibility and adaptability in terms of working hours and ways of working to accommodate changing schedules and demands.
These skills and qualifications collectively contribute to a strong foundation for a career as a private PA, preparing you for the diverse challenges of the role and positioning you as a valuable asset to employers.
Learn more about the skills and qualifications an employer looks for in a PA.
How to Excel as a Private Personal Assistant
To excel as a private PA, you need to develop a deep understanding of your employer's preferences and requirements. Effective communication, impeccable organisational skills, administrative management abilities, and a proactive approach are essential. Being adaptable and able to handle unexpected situations with poise is also crucial.
Navigating the Private PA Job Market
Breaking into the private PA job market can be challenging, especially for those seeking their first role in this niche field.
Networking is a critical component in this journey, as many private PA positions are filled through word-of-mouth recommendations or via specialised recruitment agencies.
Here are some tips and considerations for entering the Private PA job market.
1. Leverage Professional Networks
- Attend industry events, seminars, and workshops related to personal assistance or the specific sectors you are interested in (like family offices or private households).
- Join professional associations or groups for personal assistants or administrative professionals, such as the EPAA or The PA Hub.
- Engage actively on professional social media platforms like LinkedIn, connecting with industry professionals and participating in relevant discussions.
2. Build Relationships with Recruitment Agencies
- Research and identify recruitment agencies that specialise in private PA placements, such as Oriel Partners.
- Establish a professional relationship with these agencies by submitting your CV and scheduling meetings to discuss your career goals and skills.
- Stay in regular contact with your recruitment consultant to remain at the forefront of their mind for any new opportunities.
3. Develop Your Reputation
- Develop a strong reputation in your current and past roles. Satisfied employers and colleagues can be a great source of referrals.
- Let your personal network know that you are seeking a private PA position. Friends, family, and acquaintances might have leads or connections.
- Offer to assist in short-term or volunteer capacities in relevant roles to build your reputation and network.
Learn more about the benefits of taking on a temp role here.
4. Utilise Online Platforms and Forums
- Participate in online forums, such as The PA Forum, and social media groups dedicated to personal assistants and administrative professionals.
- Follow influential figures and organisations in the private PA sector on social media.
- Share your insights and experiences in these online communities to establish yourself as a knowledgeable and engaged professional.
Networking effectively in the private PA job market is about creating and maintaining relationships, staying informed about industry trends, and being proactive in your job search.
The Rewards and Challenges of Being a Private PA
Is being a PA a stressful job?
It can be, given the high expectations and the need to manage complex tasks efficiently. However, it is also a rewarding career, offering unique experiences and the opportunity to work closely with fascinating individuals. The role's demands can be balanced by the satisfaction of being an integral part of your employer's success and wellbeing.
Learn what PAs themselves say about what it’s like to work as a PA!
How Much Do Private PAs Earn?
Our annual salary survey showed that the average salary for a private PA in London is £72,500. However, this figure can differ significantly depending on the employer, location, and scope of responsibilities. Generally, private PAs in London earn between £40,000 and £125,000 per year, with experienced PAs supporting high-net-worth individuals or celebrities often earning even more.
In addition to salary, many private PAs enjoy perks such as paid travel, accommodation, and bonuses. Some roles may also include access to luxury events or exclusive opportunities. However, it’s important to weigh these benefits against the demanding nature of the job and the potential need for 24/7 availability.
We release our annual salary survey every year. See more about the average industry salary for PAs here.
Transitioning to a Private PA Role
For executive assistants or those working in a corporate environment looking to transition into a private PA role, it's essential to understand the differences between corporate and private environments.
The shift often involves a greater focus on personal tasks and requires a more adaptable approach to work. Enhancing your skills in areas like diary management and personal life coordination can be beneficial in making this transition.
To ease the transition, consider seeking hybrid roles that combine business and personal support. These positions provide an opportunity to build relevant experience in managing personal errands, household staff, or family schedules alongside corporate duties.
You might also explore temporary private PA assignments to gain first-hand experience and insight into this field, which will help you decide if it’s the right decision for you and your career.
Interested in Becoming a Private PA?
Now that you know how to become a private personal assistant, it's time to start the search for your new job!
Visit our private PA job board to see our latest vacancies.
