It can be challenging to wrap your head around the personal assistant job scope because it can be diverse and varied. Personal assistants are hired to handle a wide variety of tasks, which may change on a daily basis and evolve with the needs of the employer.
However, there are typical personal assistant duties that these professionals often handle, which may guide your hiring decision or job search. Here is a description of personal assistant duties and responsibilities, with examples of qualifications and what to expect on the job.
Functions of a Personal Assistant
Personal assistants are administrative professionals who assist individuals or families with individual or household needs. They are versatile workers who can cater to the needs and wants of their employers to handle life’s many tasks. Although executive assistants have similar roles as personal assistants, EAs work for a CEO or other executive in more of a business capacity.
Personal Assistant Job Duties
Here is a list of typical personal assistant duties that this professional may be assigned to do:
- Managing a calendar
- Making travel arrangements
- Preparing reports
- Conducting research
- Maintaining databases
- Responding to emails
- Answering phone calls
- Taking meeting minutes
- Transcribing dictation
Examples of Personal Assistant Job Scopes
The duties of a personal assistant vary based on the job description a person was hired to fulfill.
Some personal assistants work for celebrities and athletes who need help handling their many obligations. Other personal assistants help property owners manage large estates they rent to guests, work for a nonprofit organization, or aid elderly or disabled clients who need assistance with daily tasks. The personal assistant job scope may also extend to specialized needs, such as pet care, housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and running errands.
Personality Traits of a Good Personal Assistant
Regardless of the type of employer or work environment, certain personality traits help a person succeed in a career as a personal assistant:
- Excellent communication skills
- Tech-savvy with modern devices
- A proactive approach to the job
- Highly organized
- Self-motivated
- Flexible with scheduling
- Trustworthy and reliable
- Discrete when necessary
Qualifications and Requirements of a Personal Assistant
Before starting any new personal assistant job duties, the professional should obtain the necessary qualifications, education, training, and experience. Some employers require personal assistant candidates to have a high school diploma or GED. Others prefer advanced education with an associate or bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related industry.
Since the nature of the personal assistant job scope is so varied, most training is conducted on the job and an ongoing basis. Employers commonly look for candidates with at least a year or two of administrative experience.
According to ZipRecruiter, the average hourly rate for a personal assistant in the U.S. is about $23. However, salary varies with experience, tasks required, and geographic location.
FAQ About Personal Assistant Duties
As the leader in the field of personal service, here are some of the most common questions we receive about personal assistant job duties:
What Is a Digital Personal Assistant?
A digital personal assistant is a piece of technology, not an actual human, that helps you stay organized and informed.
Do I Need to Pay My Personal Assistant Holiday Pay?
Holiday pay is not mandatory, but it is an excellent way to reward your employees and should be established as a written policy.
Where Can I Hire a Personal Assistant?
Pavillion can connect you with the best personal assistants in the industry. Please complete our client application to tell us about your needs.
How Can I Become a Personal Assistant?
Pavillion is always looking for the best candidates to place in rewarding personal assistant jobs. Please tell us more about your skills and experience to pursue this career path.
