The Extensive Private PA Jobs Guide
Most Personal Assistants consider private Personal Assistant jobs highly desirable, and it is easy to see why. Some Private PAs enjoy a glamorous lifestyle, jetting off to exotic destinations and staying in luxury accommodations on a routine basis. Such roles do exist, but what is the reality of working as a Private PA – and how can you bag yourself such a sought-after position?
A special mention goes to the extensive interactions that many Private PAs have with both the immediate and extended families of their principals. Acting as a Family PA could see you supporting older or distant relatives and children.
These are only a handful of examples that might typically be expected in such roles. Your Private PA responsibilities could differ depending on the individual you work for.
What is a Private PA?
In general, a Private PA works on a privately funded basis on behalf of one individual. This professional will assist with various tasks, varying significantly from one Private PA role to the next.
A Private PA's role differs from that of an Executive Assistant or corporate PA, who frequently provides administrative or business support to multiple executives. Despite the fact that these jobs are very different, many of the skills required to succeed in them are similar.
The typical duties of a Private PA could include:
? Supporting administrative needs and correspondence
? Events management
? Travel and diary management
? Overseeing domestic staff
? Managing household bills and basic bookkeeping
? Handling ad hoc personal errands
How to become a Private PA
This is the issue that everybody is pondering, quite understandably. Becoming a Private PA is about building relevant experience and setting out your stall appropriately. The easiest way to secure a Private PA role is with experience in a similar position, but what can you do if you have only worked in a corporate capacity??
Tune Your CV?
You can start by?optimising your CV?to impress during the recruitment process. Assuming you have previous experience working as a PA or an EA in the business world, you will already have many of the skills required to become a successful Private PA.
It could be that travel management only constituted a small part of an older position you held, but this skill could be invaluable for organising family holidays as a Private PA, for example. Please highlight the relevant skills as required. The most effective approach is editing your CV for each job application, as responsibilities can vary a lot from one role to the next.?
Acquire Relevant Experience
With prior experience in the field, becoming a Private PA can be easier. If you apply for these positions and are unsuccessful, you need to gain more relevant experience. Seek positions in corporate environments where you might be able to assist your principal in his or her personal life. These hybrid roles can be a great way to break into a relatively exclusive field. You are unlikely to be considered for Private PA positions if you have no PA or EA experience.
Prioritise Discretion?
When an individual hires a Private PA, they do so knowing that this professional will have clear insights into their life and personal affairs. The Private PA will see their homes, family, finances, and other things. As such, they need to be able to trust that their Private PA will behave professionally and discreetly. At all stages of the application process for a Private PA position, you'll need to show your respect for confidentiality.
Display Flexibility
Being expected to be available is one of the most taxing facets of Private PA roles. These positions frequently call for lengthy hours, weekend work, and midnight shifts. You give yourself a competitive advantage by demonstrating that you are up to the task and have the adaptability and willingness to tackle these demands. Additionally, it goes beyond the hours you will be required to labour. A Private Household PA may be planning a formal event one week and interviewing household workers the next in these various roles. This is the ideal position for you if you enjoy forging new ground and attempting novel things.\
Think about relevant courses
It's possible that you possess the necessary abilities to excel as a Private PA but lack any recognized credentials. Sometimes it is sense to look for professional credentials that could boost your credibility. You may communicate with third parties on behalf of your new principal, thus you should be able to at least show that you have excellent written and vocal communication abilities. Once more, your prospective employer's background will decide the exact abilities that will be most valued. While a television celebrity could prefer someone with experience in the entertainment sector, a powerful fashion CEO might choose someone with such background.
Are Private PA Jobs Right for You?
You must carefully consider whether private PA jobs are the right option for you. They usually demand long hours and you need to perform to a high level, but the rewards are worthwhile. With access to luxurious travel opportunities and generous compensation, Private PA jobs are an excellent option for those with the right experience and mindset.
Now could be the perfect time to apply if you’re looking for a new Private PA job. Browse the latest Private PA opportunities on?our website to get the latest opportunity!