Administrative Professionals’ Day is a time to celebrate and show appreciation for those who are keeping your office running like a well-oiled machine. Administrative Professionals keep your business thriving and are the driving force of a successful workplace.

A Long History of Supporting Business Success

Administrative Professionals Day and Week began in 1952. Originally called “National Secretaries Week,” the idea was sparked by Mary Barrett, president of the then-active National Secretaries Association (now the International Association of Administrative Professionals) and the president of Dictaphone Corporation, C. King Woodbridge. Their goal was to recognize Administrative Professionals for their contributions in the workplace. It was also believed that the holiday would attract more individuals to admin careers.

Today, Administrative Professionals’ Appreciation Day is celebrated the final Wednesday during the last full week in the month of April. In fact, that entire last full week of April is referred to as “Administrative Professionals’ Week.” The holiday is held to encourage managers at all levels to show support, reward their admin helpers and show appreciation for all that they do. How can you show your appreciation to your admin professionals? Here are five effective ways:

1. Flowers

They’re easy, they’re beautiful, they sit perfectly on a desk and will smell amazing all day. Remind your Administrative Professionals that they are cared for and appreciated by sending them flowers.

2. “Your Treat”

It can be as simple as donuts or boxes of gourmet cupcakes or as fancy as a gourmet brunch out. If you’re looking for something in between, appetizers and drinks after work can show appreciation quite effectively.

3. Paid Time Off

Shock your employees by giving them the most under-utilized reward method in the American workplace: paid time off. Ramp up productivity a bit in the weeks prior to Administrative Professional Appreciation Week, and when the day comes, surprise them and send them home after lunch.

4. A Raise

One of the ultimate displays of gratitude and appreciation for any employee is a well-deserved raise and/or promotion. What better time to give your most outstanding Administrative Professionals an increase in pay?

5. Self-Care

Gift certificates for massages, reiki treatments, acupuncture or any other self care modality can show your employees that you care about their well-being and want them to feel good.
Don’t let Administrative Professional’s Day pass by without taking the opportunity to show your treasured workers that you care. Whether you bring cupcakes, give them time off or send them flowers, they’re sure to feel valued and appreciated that you’ve taken the time and made the effort.