Behind every successful business there is a devoted and hardworking secretary, administrator, personal assistant, receptionist or front desk operator. On Wednesday, 7 September 2016, The University of Johannesburg (UJ) celebrated Secretary’s Day by recognising and appreciating the work done by the institution’s secretaries.
In her welcome address, UJ’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Ms Tumi Mketi saluted the secretaries for their hard work at the University.
Celebrated internationally, Secretary’s Day is a day to salute these women and men who help to ensure projects are delivered on time, organize committee meetings and record proceedings, answer questions and help solve problems. They are often the first point of contact in units at the university, greeting others and making them feel welcome, and ensuring that correct information is provided.
Ms Helen Mogorosi, UJ Director: Organisational Development commented: “As it is the University’s tradition to celebrate Secretaries’ Day, this year the Marketing Department decided to give our Secretaries a refresher course in appreciation of their hard work.”
“The refresher course ‘Building your Professional Secretarial Brand’ equipped them with skills and knowledge which will aid them in providing the best service to all stakeholders. Building a powerful professional secretarial brand is essential for future career success: It can have a powerful impact on the secretary’s boss’s brand and vice versa.
“The course touched on various aspects which include understanding human behaviour in colour; how to start building a brand by looking at responsibilities; and dealing with difficult situations and people,” said Ms Mogorosi.
Sentiments shared from the institution’s secretaries:
“It is so refreshing to have our institution show that they appreciate us for all that we do. It is important for the morale of the office staff to know that all our hard work is truly appreciated,” said Ms Tiny Mangobe from Health Sciences.
“The event has been informative in assisting us as Admin staff in understanding our work in conjunction with understanding human values in the workplace” added Xolani Gama, PsyCad.
The workshop was well received and motivated the team to excel in their various workspaces.
