ANZAC Day & the Administrative Support Industry

This article first appeared on The Global Assistant blog - 25 April 2022.

April 25 marks ANZAC Day, a day in Australia's and New Zealand's history that will always be remembered. On this day in 1915, the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey to fight in World War I.

World War I was a turning point in history, not just for the countries involved but also for the development of modern industry and commerce. One of the most significant changes during this time was the changing workplace that saw women take up jobs. Before the war, most women were confined to the home, where their primary role was to take care of the household and family. However, with so many men away at war, women were forced to enter the workforce to keep the economy going.

During this time, the jobs women took were typically low-paying and manual labour-intensive, such as factory work. However, there was also a growing demand for women in administrative and executive support roles. Roles that were previously only held by men. The war had a profound effect on the way businesses were run, and women proved that they were more than capable of performing roles that had traditionally been seen as 'men's work'.

It was because of women's wartime contribution that the administrative support industry was born. After the war, many women returned to their traditional roles in the home. However, some women continued to work, and their skills and experience in the workplace were invaluable. These women helped to shape the administrative support industry as we know it today and why it has been, for decades, a mainly female-dominated sector.

The administrative support industry was born out of necessity during World War I. It has continued to grow and evolve ever since. Today, administrative professionals play a vital role in businesses all over the world. Their roles are evolving with the rapid changes taking place in the business world, but their importance remains the same.

Without the events of World War I, it's likely that the administrative support industry would not exist as we know it today. So, on this ANZAC Day, let's remember the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom. Let's also reflect on the professionals who persevered and who paved the way for future generations of administrative professionals.

ANZAC Day is honoured on April 25, just two days before International Administrative Professionals' Day on April 27. It seems fitting that we take a moment to reflect on the origins of our industry and the professionals who made it what it is today. Let us remember those who have given their lives in service of their country and those who continue to serve today. Lest We Forget.

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