Secretary's Day is my day! As a part-time secretary, I juggle responsibilities across 'my region' while keeping the home front running smoothly. With years of experience in both roles, I've discovered numerous parallels between being a secretary and a mother. Let's dive in.
Some view this blend of roles as intriguing; others take it in stride. For me, it's seamless. Working as a secretary mirrors life at home in ways you'll see below.
I work for a large family-owned business with deep roots in South Limburg. It began with an entrepreneurial father, grew as his sons joined, and evolved into an international holding company—now with a grandson on the board. Though not family myself, it feels that way. I met my partner here; we now run our own 'small business': our home.
Four mornings a week, I support several managers—'my' men—who keep customer facades sparkling clean in our region. They're often on the road, so I handle the behind-the-scenes operations. It's much the same at home, as the comparisons ahead reveal.
Here are the key similarities from my firsthand experience in both worlds.
I expertly manage my managers' agendas, scheduling appointments efficiently to minimize travel and maximize productivity. At home, it's the same: coordinating training sessions, playdates, children's parties, music lessons, and sports around family time for quality moments together.
As a secretary, I remember birthdays with flowers for colleagues or cards for the ill—tailored perfectly for every occasion. At home, I handle birthday cards, flowers for Grandma, and party gifts with the same care.
Check-in calls to clients, coffee chats with colleagues needing to vent—it's all part of the role. Similarly, I call friends in tough spots or schedule catch-ups with those we haven't seen lately.
Booking hotels, business lunches, dinners, barbecues, or meetings for my team is second nature. At home, I organize children's parties, girls' nights, restaurant reservations, or family getaways.
I handle a steady stream of incoming and outgoing emails—both personal and on behalf of my managers—with precision; no room for errors. Home correspondence flows through me too: school emails, music lessons, health insurance.
Discretion is my hallmark. I manage confidential company emails and insights, sharing only what's necessary based on experience and intuition. At home, kids' secrets or teacher notes stay confidential when needed—safely between us.
Part-time work demands flexibility: shifting hours for afternoon meetings, which ripples to home (handy for Grandma's flowers!). I'm accessible for my partner and managers, even outside hours via calls or emails. Conversely, I handle personal matters during work when essential.
In our family business, I organize shared lunches and procure plants, crockery, or supplies. At home, I plan meals and shop for both families. The sales? A win for everyone—I love them!
Twice yearly, I'm celebrated on both days with thoughtful gifts. Unnecessary but appreciated—I'm just doing what I love.
This year, instead of flowers, my 'secretary sisters' and I enjoy a lunch courtesy of one of the family leaders. We'll chat, snack, and drink with secretaries from across the companies.
Like mom lunches where we share home updates, brag about kids, and vent about chores—this will be similar: tips, gripes, and company news. Some of 'my' men are just like children: frustrating at times, but indispensable!
