Your Problems Solved: The Admin Pro Forum

Tuition reimbursement: How do you convince the company you’re worth the investment?

“Our company has a tuition reimbursement program and I've inquired about taking advantage of that little-used benefit.  (I'm currently an executive secretary with 10-plus years’ experience, and I'm ready to finally get my degree.) My managers have requested a "marketing package" to sell them on it.  (I work in the corporate executive offices, and I plan to work toward a BS degree in business administration.) How should I market myself and what should I include?” — KNL

How do you make sure a candidate really has the admin skills necessary for the job?

“What are the right questions to ask candidates during interviews for administrative aide positions to find out whether they have the technical skills necessary for the job? During the interview, I try to get a good feel of their abilities to perform a specific job. Most claim they have the skills, but when tested, fail or fall well below the expected scale.” — Jonnie Barkley

Employee recognition: Any simple tips?

“My boss wants me to create an employee recognition program for our team. I have the basics, but I’m looking for other ideas (small gifts, inspiring quotes, etc.). Any suggestions on what’s worked for others? Or any ideas for web sites or other resources that can help?” -- Brenda

My boss: Is he discriminating, or just clueless?

“I work in an office with all men. My boss is wonderful except he forgets that I’m part of the team, too. For example, he recently gave all the guys a hooded sweatshirt with the company logo, but he failed to give me one. I don't want to sound selfish, but I’d like to have one. What’s the best way to handle this situation without sounding greedy?"  -- A team member, too

Vacation and sick accruals: What’s your payout?

“I am interested in knowing how other firms handle vacation and sick accruals, and if accrued sick leave hours are paid out at termination.” — Peggy

Administrative Assistant Handbook: What should be included?

“We are trying to put together a handbook for our administrative assistant staff. From your experience, what should we include in it?” — Cindy Miltgen

Online degrees: Are they viewed favorably?

“Are online degrees (from accredited institutions) being viewed as equal to classroom earned degrees by employers, HR professionals, hiring managers?” — Suzanne M. Williams

Clothes call: business attire, casual business attire, jacket required?

“We need to address an issue regarding a company dress code. Can you offer any guidance?” — Eva Arche

How do we tell a snoopy co-worker not to comment on the phone conversations of others?

“I work in an office with two other women.  One woman makes comments about what’s being said while the other person is on a telephone conversation. I realize that it's hard working in close proximity and we hear each other’s phone conversations. How can we politely tell this woman not to add her comments while one of us is on the phone?” — Margie Jimenez

Testing the staff on the company’s mission statement: Is there a fun way to do it?

“I am in charge of rewarding up to 150 employees at our Appreciation Day BBQ. To receive an award, employees must know the organization’s Core Values (similar to a mission statement). Any suggestions on how to test the employees’ knowledge and reward those who know the three Core Values? How can I bring up the subject in a casual environment, yet stress the importance of the topic?” — Deb