The Rise of AI: What’s Next for Administrative Professionals?

Waves of layoffs, particularly in the tech sector, and a strong uptick in the adoption of AI tools such as ChatGPT have stirred up debate among executive assistants and administrative professionals about the state of the profession. A widely shared article from the Wall Street Journal declares “a dedicated admin is now a rare perk as companies cut jobs and technology automates many tasks.” 

It’s true that the market has shifted in response to technological advancement over the past 20 years, from needing a higher volume of EAs or admins per organization to a more highly valued few. Increasingly, one EA supports multiple executives, and job titles are changing to reflect a growing scope of work.  

Of course, human admins are more valuable than robots. Busy admins who use generative AI to increase their efficiency at work, however, are setting themselves up to be invaluable—both in the job market and to the organizations and executives they serve as strategic partners. 

Leverage ChatGPT for Written Communication 

One of the easiest ways to start using ChatGPT is to feed it prompts to cut down on the time it would normally take for many writing tasks. GPT is short for generative pre-trained transformer. It's a program that writes as a human would, because ChatGPT is trained on a massive amount of human-written material.  

ChatGPT uses its deep learning bank of knowledge to respond to your prompts. For a time-strapped admin, this might include asking ChatGPT to reword sentences or write a sample email on a particular topic. 

The more specific and detailed your prompt, the more helpful ChatGPT’s response is likely to be. It’s a good tool to use when you’re stuck, need to brainstorm, or want to get an outline going that you can edit and add to yourself for accuracy. Remember: Do not copy and paste sensitive company information or client data into ChatGPT. 

Ready to get started? Check out Robyn Greaves’ post on LinkedIn: “ChatGPT for Executive Assistants: A Quick Start Guide.” 

Overheard in the ASAP Circle 

We tapped into the ASAP Circle community of ASAP members to hear what they have to say on the rise of ChatGPT and generative AI in the workplace. Here are a few highlights: 

• “We're working on incorporating it into how some of our training is done with VR and AR. Not something that we're going to use to replace our instructors, but an additional resource.” 

• "Hopefully it can be a time saver that actually frees up time and doesn't just make room on your plate for more work!"

• “I work in healthcare; we focus on creating the best experience for our patients. Being in a ‘back of the house’ role, my focus is on the human experience for the executives I support and the customers I interact with. I wouldn't mind a little AI support to enhance and help me be more efficient in my role.” 

Use AI to Work Smarter, Not Harder 

If you’re already using ChatGPT or other AI tools in your workplace, you’re ahead of the curve. Running AI for more mundane or repetitive tasks has the potential to free you up for more nuanced and high-impact work—from project management to leading training sessions and managing teams more effectively. 

Chances are good that you already use AI-enabled tools such as Base, Otter.ai, or Microsoft Viva to optimize your workflow. As administrative professional Lacey Chiddix-Rosales explored in her ASAP article, “Leveraging Tech for Administrative Success,” it is advantageous to be an early adopter and see emerging tech such as generative AI as an opportunity. 

“As the SME of administration within your organization, you have a unique advantage of being a super user of many, many things,” she says. “Like obtaining certifications in your field, establishing yourself as an SME or super user sets you apart and offers opportunities for development, leadership, and potential advancement.” 

The Importance of Training  

As the leading provider of education and training for administrative professionals and executive assistants, ASAP is here to help you grow your skill set in today’s evolving business climate. Take advantage of our training resources and attend our annual events for in-person learning and community building.  

Want to continue learning and connecting online? Become an ASAP Member and join the ASAP Circle for weekly Tuesday Coffee Breaks, knowledge sharing, networking, and more!