Capital Chapter-IAAP

The Changing of the Calendar...

2008-12-10T08:56:00.005-05:00

Is it possible that I went a month without writing? How is that?!!

A quick note for readers- Capital Chapter will be hosting our Third Annual Holiday Gathering at Union Station this Friday, December 12, 2008 at 6pm -? Be sure to look for us at the Center Cafe... we'll the extraordinarily boisterous crowd.

Naturally, everyone starts to squeeze as much in as possible before the end of the year.. certainly those of us working in the field of accounting or auditing, accounts payables and receivables know that this time of year is frenetic. I've written about it in previous posts.

However, I have always enjoyed the chance to take a step back and review the year as it unfolded, not just the chapter program year, but reflect on how the year has moved along on a more personal level. Nothing slows down.. not really. And, the phrase -"the only thing constant, is change-" is so apt.

I usually take a couple of hours on a Saturday morning with a good friend.. once or twice a month to take stock of what's going on.. and where I am off the tracks. It has become such a valuable tool for me, away from family and the office. Now that I'm officially one of the many looking for employment, I can better appreciate the challenges I faced in the workplace during this past year. I can view it as preparation for the next move...next challenge.. next success.

Interviewing has changed, too. The recruiters are almost always younger than I am, and have a fresher approach/less cynical approach to the workplace and employment options. Honestly, I didn't think I had become less enthusiastic, but my interviews are proving otherwise. I am realizing that this one month long break from employment has been something I needed, even if I didn't want it. I know for sure that my daughter is much happier not being constantly hurried, rushed and pestered in the morning to get out the door. I know I have not really missed the adventures of various Metro line delays. I do miss my peers and I do miss learning. For me, being in the workforce full-time is equivalent to being at class everyday. Some days, the class and instructor are so boring.. and other days it is a pop-quiz worth 60% of my grade!

What do you do at the end of the year? Do you follow the tradition of creating resolutions for the new year? Do you set goals? I don't usually set resolutions, but I do aim for achieving some goals.

One of my goals this year, professionally, is to get enrolled in a Spanish course. As admins, we really need to pick up this language to remain competitive in the workforce. I have been participating in Toastmasters, so I really want to continue dedicating time to improving in that arena. Most importantly, I want to get hired in a firm that values professional administrative staff, and that pays competitively.

As the calendar flips from December to January; the administrations and machinations of Washington, D.C., begin to transition; and the second half of our program year rolls into play with our Executives' breakfast-- let's look at all the great things we have accomplished together and individually in 2008. To paraphrase T.I., - " We can accomplish whatever we like..."

To all of you, the very best for the holiday season.. Many blessings to you and yours..

Long Time --- No Post--- I'm Baaaaaaack

2008-11-06T21:52:00.002-05:00

Hi, Everyone.

Just a quick thank you for your patience while I was busy earning a living and paying bills, instead of sitting down at night to write for the chapter.

I hope everyone is doing well. With this economy, it can be quite scary to know either someone that has lost their position, or like yours truly, had to leave their company because the company was moving to a location far from DC where the rent is cheaper in order to remain economically competitive.

There are some great things about DC to keep in mind:

1) We'll have a new administration starting January. Stand by for many federal job postings to come around and different firms that require additional administrative staff to help with proposals for the new leadership.

2) DC is one of the most recession proof cities in the country. Be sure to keep your skill set strong and try new software. Keep a positive attitude. As the saying goes, the more things change, the more things in DC stay the same! That definitely applies to administrative staff.

3) So many industries here.. Associations, lobbying firms, legal firms, consulting firms, hotels, meetings industry, sports teams..etc.. music, theatres etc.

I'll be sending out a letter to the chapter members this weekend with a chapter update. Feel free to contact the board anytime. Thanks again.- KMK Foley

Last Minute Guest Visitor- Meet & Greet 9-18

2008-09-13T19:50:00.003-04:00

Hey Gang..

Lisa Olsen, Speaker, Trainer and Consultant- Owner of Wingspan Motivation will be joining us for our meeting on September 18, 2008. Check out Lisa's website: www.wingspanmotivation.com.

Luckily for us.. Lisa spotted our group on Office Arrow (www.officearrow.com) and since she was headed into DC Metro for another engagement, she wondered if our chapter had any upcoming events. After a bunch of email correspondence.. Lisa is going to join us for our kickoff meeting!!!

We have a wonderful agenda in store. Please be sure to join us.

Late August Update on Capital Chapter 2008-2009

2008-08-25T22:54:00.001-04:00

Dear Capital Chapter members and friends:

We are Zooming! into our 2008-2009 Program year and will certainly have so many opportunties to learn, grow and network with our peers this year. It is hard to believe that more than a month has passed since I came on as chapter president. However, I do want all of you to know I have learned of the secret "hazing" of incoming Chapter Presidents.... it is called EMAIL Overload! ha ha.

Well, while we are getting all of our work done behind the scenes by the committees and board- I thought I better get at least a tiny! portion of the portion of email information I am receiving from IAAP Headquarters and our Division Leadership sent out to you guys!

But first, let's talk about Capital.

1. Please be sure to sign up with IAAP HQ for your member's place login if you don't have one or need to have your login reset. There are certain pages on the Capital Chapter webpage (www.iaap-capital.org) that are for our chapter members only. If you are not logged in.. you may not get all the information that is available to you as a chapter member.

2. Here is a sneak preview of our calendar.. and this is just through September... Be sure to mark your calendar for October 25, 2008 which will be our Fall Education Conference.

SEPTEMBER 2008

September 12, 2008 Brown Bag Lunch- 12noon -1:30pm: All Things Certified! Come learn about the CPS/CAP Study Group, the exam and all the benefits of pursuing certification. Location: Management Options, Inc. 1620 I Street, NW-WDC, Presented by Pat May CPS/CAP, Certification Chair Cost: Free. Donations for Retirement Trust Foundation (RTF) gladly accepted.

September 17, 2008 Brown Bag Lunch- 1pm -2pm Using Pivot Tables to Analyze Your Excel Data- Presented by Triad Consulting: Webinar hosted at Management Options, Inc. 1620 I Street, NW- 6th Floor. WDC Cost: $10.00 covers fee for program and sodas. Come take advantage of this bargain! This program normally costs $59.00 /person!

September 18, 2008 Capital Chapter Meet & Greet/ New Member Installation! 6pm -8pm.Come kick off the new year and meet our newest members! Location: Finnegan 901 New York Avenue, NW 10th Floor Washington DC Cost: Free. Donations to the Retirement Trust Fund (RTF) gladly accepted.

3. I will be sending out 2 or more additional emails with information for Division meetings.(See Divisions' website at www.demddc-iaap.org) I've attached the 2008-2009 Point Schedule. We are also in the midst of updating the Evite distribution.. so for those of you folks that have been writing me notes.. I appreciate the updates.. I'm new to this.. so hopefully we'll have the kinks worked out soon.

4. Congratulations go out to:

Dexter K. Allen CPS on his new promotion at AAMC!
Linda Street CPS on her new position at McDermott Will & Emery

5. AND.. Welcome to the new members joining Capital...

Colleen Clokus- Associate Member: Telesec CORESTAFF

Marquita Whiting- Professional Member- Assoc. of American Medical Colleges

Sharonda Anderson- Professional Member- Washington Convention Center

We will be posting lots of the flyers and materials to the website.. and.. if you feel like you are not receiving info.. or happen to hear from one of your peers that they aren't getting info from us.. please let us know so we can verify what email address we have on file for them.
----------------------------------------------------------------NEXT-----------------------------------------
Please see below: The message from IAAP International Board of Directors President Barb Horton.

IAAP members,

Do you like to read? I do – and I also love to share books. What better way to merge my love of books with my passion for IAAP with you?

Near the middle of each month you will receive an email inviting you to participate in the forum discussion on a different book that will help you grow and develop both personally and professionally. Check out the first selection and find out how you can discuss the book selections with other IAAP members at http://www.iaapnet.org/default.aspx?pid=5657.

It is my hope that over the course of the Excellence in Action year that you will enjoy these titles as much as I enjoyed choosing them. Happy reading!

Barb Horton CAP
2008-2009 IAAP International President

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Folks.. Stay tuned for more information to come..

Regards-

Kemetia MK Foley CPS/CAP
President
Capital Chapter
International Association of Administrative Professionals
PO Box 706-Ben Franklin Station
Washington, DC 20044-0706
www.iaap-capital.org

Office Arrow- Web 2.0 for the Admin Community?

2008-08-14T23:56:00.002-04:00

Met these folks at International convention this year. Check out their site.. very interesting... good stuff....
www.officearrow.com

There are so many business related sites to go to nowadays.. but this one if just for us paid, professional admins..

hmmm Let me know what you think.

SNEAK Preview of our Program Year! More to come

2008-08-14T22:22:00.000-04:00

AUGUST 2008

August 20, 2008 6:30-8:30pm -Dress Barn Event Connecticut Avenue- IAAP Members and Guests receive 15% discount on purchases. Please bring or wear your IAAP badge.... Guests are welcome.

SEPTEMBER 2008

September 12, 2008 Brown Bag Lunch- 12noon -1:30pm: All Things Certified! Come learn about the CPS/CAP Study Group, the exam and all the benefits of pursuing certification. Location: Management Options, Inc. 1620 I Street, NW-WDC, Presented by Pat May CPS/CAP, Certification Chair Cost: Free. Donations for Retirement Trust Foundation (RTF) gladly accepted.

September 17, 2008 Brown Bag Lunch- 1pm -2pm Using Pivot Tables to Analyze Your Excel Data- Presented by Triad Consulting: Webinar hosted at Management Options, Inc. 1620 I Street, NW- 6th Floor. WDC Cost: $10.00 covers fee for program and sodas. Come take advantage of this bargain! This program normally costs $59.00 /person!

September 18, 2008 Capital Chapter Meet & Greet/ New Member Installation! 6pm -8pm.Come kick off the new year and meet our newest members! Location: Finnegan 901 New York Avenue, NW 10th Floor Washington DC Cost: Free. Donations to the Retirement Trust Fund (RTF) gladly accepted.

Associate Member Goes to the Blogs!

2008-08-07T14:50:00.001-04:00

Hey Everyone! Check out Washington DC Accommodations new blog-- moderated and written by our very own superb Associate Member, Nancy Riker.

Kudos, Nancy!
www.washingtondchotelsandtravel.blogspot.com

Slow.. .but steady

2008-08-04T21:59:00.004-04:00

Sorry folks.. just getting back to work and on my feet to DC.. I've posted up the slideshow to the right.... Tomorrow.. Hopefully will get more details and story out from convention written up and posted here.

In the meantime.. Please do two things!

1. Check out our FACEBOOK group. Go to www.Facebook.com: once you've got an account, you can look up Facebook Groups.. and look up IAAP. You'll see Capital Chapter's logo listed there. Click and join!

2. Be sure to sign up for the IAAP Community/Capital Chapter Web login.

Go to www.iaap-hq.org
Click on Members Place Tab on Left Side
Once that page load, Look up at the top right corner
If you are new to the site.. and don't have a login.. Follow that link to make sure you have access to all things that are related to Capital Chapter.

If you forgot your password, follow that link.

More and more information for chapter members will post to this site. And.. we'll have a special Brown Bag Lunch session to review all the cool bells & whistles..early in our program year.

More soon! K. Foley

Convention closeout....

2008-07-31T14:57:00.006-04:00

Well, it is the end of convention. As a Capital's President and delegate to this year's IAAP Convention, I must say it has been a tremendous learning experience and an honor to represent our 80+ members.

Before I review some of the events from yesterday, I wanted to share some thoughts from the Leadership Session I attended this morning. I will share more details in a separate post regarding yesterday's events. Dr. Cal LeMon presented the session titled, "Leadership Responses to Moving the Furniture."

He had two points that really struck a chord with me, both as an IAAP Member and as President of Capital Chapter. The first question that caught me was, " What would you (a chapter) do if you could make decisions without having to consider politics, time or cost (and I am paraphrasing here). The second question that made me kind of gasp was... What (is it that )everyone in our chapter (has) learned is acceptable, but is unproductive (to the mission, vision or success) of the chapter.

Underlying discussion really seemed to address what is impolitely called "Deadweights" or "Resume" members. And, is it really the members fault?

Let me explain or provide an example from Capital.

Every chapter, including ours, has the issue of having WAY more members on their roster than those that actually attend functions. Over the last four (4) years, Capital's leadership has tried different approaches, programs and themes to try and encourage attendance and additional involvement from our membership. But.. are we being successful?

Chapter members BJ Parrish and Brigitte Tapp along with others have developed interesting fundraising programs as well as brown bag topics to "switch things up a bit." It's disconcerting to leadership in the chapter to have 80+ members and still wonder why we are only getting 25-30 or as low as 10-20 chapter members to attend functions.

While pondering all this, I decided to make a list of all the good things we offer as a chapter (and I'm sure I'm forgetting some.)

1. We offer a year-round CPS/CAP Certification Study group.
2. The calendar of events is rotated to accommodate chapter member's needs for alternate nights.
3. The chapter began offering a luncheon brown bag session to those chapter members that cannot attend evening functions
4. The chapter began offering more networking and happy hour opportunities
5. We have an active website and blog
6. We publish a newsletter at least 3 per year.
7. We actively pursue Associate members and provide recognition of their contributions to our chapter
8. The chapter website has a job board
9. The chapter is well represented by both genders
10 We offer quality programs ..including Fall education conference , Administrative Professional's Week events and the Executive's Breakfast.
11. We enter the annual Avery Awards Winner contest at Headquarters.

Cal's comment about member's not attending because they are not being rewarded - well, that comment is a concern. Maybe I am naive, but I don't think it is what is keeping our members away. I think it is complacency.

Complacency is deadly to a chapter.. almost as deadly as gossip. And I fear our chapter has a large pocket of complacency hanging out. It becomes the job of the leadership you have elected and the extended board to address and right this issue.

When the extended board meets to do our strategic planning retreat in about a week, this issue will move to the front. What can we do to shake things up.. and get folks to attend, participate and really want to be involved in IAAP and our chapter.

Many of you know that one of my favorite movies is Shawshank Redemption. My favorite character quote from that movie is from character, Red. Red is a lifer.. but gets parole after doing time for many many years. When he gets out of prison, he has a terrible time adjusting to the outside world. His best friend from prison, Andy Duefresne had asked him if he ever, ever had a chance to get out of prison to come see him in Mexico, and Red is not sure that is ever possible. But the last lifer that had been released from Shawshank had not made it.. he had killed himself because he could not change and would not risk changing. Red thinks about committing a crime just so he can go back to what he knows. He even thinks about killing himself. But suddenly, he sees the note carved into the ceiling of the apartment where the last released convict had been. It stated, Brooks was here.
All at once, Red decides he had better choose to-"Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying". He chooses to live and take the risk of living.

Now, I realize IAAP is not worth living or dying over.. and..of course, this is a dramatic and exaggerated point to make. But I ask, each and everyone of you to think about what your contribution is to IAAP, what are you giving back to the younger professionals coming up, what example are you setting? What's your motivation for joining? Do you have suggestions? are you interested in growing, learning or what?

just some food for thought.. .more to follow later today.
Regards, K. Foley

quick notes

2008-07-31T00:47:00.001-04:00

just returned from a long dinner and socializing... Judy McCoy's farewell address- Barb Horton's videoconferenced address to the membership and am completely zonked. My apologies.. but a full on posting about Wednesday and Thursday will have to wait until late tomorrow afternoon.

New Motions at Convention

2008-07-29T17:33:00.004-04:00

The following Motion was presented from the floor (delegates and alternates were provided copies of motions 24 hours in advance per by-law requirements)

Motion 1

I move that the International Board of Directors compile behavioral guidelines that define/describe "misconduct" as applies to any IAAP officer at any level of the association. These guidelines should include the wording, "including, but not limited to," and should also define appropriate levels of sanction up to removal from office for violation of the guidelines. This should be accomplished in time for submission to the delegates for their approval at the 2009 international convention.

Maker: Brenda Shaw CPS/CAP Delegate Badge #202

Motion was seconded and debated.
Vote: 181 in favor
158 opposed Motion carried.

-------------
Motion 2

I move that all chapters of IAAP be given online membership registration capability with implementation no later than January 1, 2009.

Maker: Deborah Brown CPS/CAP RP Delegate Badge # 100

Motion was seconded and debated

Vote was by voice: Majority in favor Motion carried.

--------------------------------

I won't go into great detail, but I will say it was obvious in the crowd that emotions ran high on both of these motions.

The installation of the new officers also took place- very quickly because I'm tight on timing here.. plz forgive spelling and lack of designations (CPS etc..)

The new officers for the International Board of Directors:

President- Barb Horton
President elect Susan Shamali
Vice President Mary Ramsey Drow
Secretary: Janine Riemersma (sp)
Treasurer: Karlenna Rannals
International NortheastDirector: Judith Yannerelli
International Northwest Director: Valerie King
International Southwest Director: Antoinette Smith
International Affiliate representative: Jennifer Hinkson

Great Lakes Director Sam Gill & Southeast Director Tamra Goodall are serving the 2nd year of their two year term.

More later this evening... I hope!

Other Bloggers from Convention!!

2008-07-28T22:12:00.002-04:00

Just a quick note: Other chapters/IAAP members are also providing blogs from this year's IAAP convention. Check them out

OOPS had to correct the URL for the first blog listed.. updated it 7/29/08 Thanks!

http://cwmiaap.wordpress.com

http://planetedgar.blogspot.com

http://iaap-tworivers.blogspot.com

Convention Updates - Sun Eve 7/27

2008-07-28T21:27:00.004-04:00

I left off yesterday at the 12:30 break for lunch.
From 1-6pm the Office Expo 2008 opened with many of our regular supporting vendors/sponsors and some newer ones like VMeal and Office Arrow. I didn't get to really visit with vendors due to obligations as a Delegate.

The following persons were additional candidates nominated from the floor:

For the office of President-Elect:
Nancy Upchurch CPS/CAP

For the office of Vice President:
Linda M. Lorden CPS/CAP

For the office of Secretary:
Marie "Gerry" Brunell CPS/CAP

For the office Affiliate Representative:
Jennifer Sandra Hinkson CMP

For the office of Director, Northeast District
Katherine C. Hook CPS/CAP

Judith A. Yannarelli CPS/CAP

For the office of RTF (Retirement Trust Foundation) Trustee

Patricia D. Row CPS/CAP

The afternoon really consisted of attending the District Caucus, briefly supporting the Greater New England Division (I was working at their fundraising booth), the DE-MD-DC Division group photo and lastly attending the DE-MD-DC Division dinner at Mulates. Approximately 60 DE-MD-DC Division members and friends attended this dinner. It was a great time.

The District Caucus was led by our Southeast District International Board of Directors representative Tamra Goodall CPS/CAP. This gathering of Southeast District members, delegates and alternates is an opportunity for recognizing achievements within the District and learning more about what has been accomplished during the IAAP program year. IAAP Executive Director Don Bretthauer, and International Board of Directors President Judy McCoy CPS/CAP stopped by the meeting for a quick hello. One item of note is that IAAP legal counsel was also in attendance.- next blog- Monday's events.

from IAAP convention Sunday -7/27

2008-07-27T16:51:00.002-04:00

Good afternoon from New Orleans.

As promised ..this morning's opening Business Session proved to be mighty interesting and alot more

The Welcome Session opened with the International Flag Ceremony, followed by a FANTASTIC singing of our National Anthem by none other than New Orleans grammy winning native, Erma Thomas. There were 1900+ registered attendees for the conference.. .so it has been amazing. But you have to picture this huge ballroom -set up theatre style with the seats all crammed together. The Stage was covered in huge brightly colored traffic signs. I'll try to the picture posted up sometime in the next day or so.

Also within the opening was a performance of a 'New Orleans' Jazz Funeral. (more details on that later).
As the Business section opened the introduction of our current members of the International Board of Directors-entered the Ballroom (along with Don Bretthauer Executive Director) waving checkerboard/racecar themed flags. It was a fairly amusing sight.
The second welcome to the conference was made by Doris Voitier- who won the 2007 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award. She told an inspirational story about the restoration of public schools,following just after Hurricane Katrina, in St. Bernard Parish just east of New Orleans.

The report of the registration was made and debated...because the counts provided by the Meeting Registrar did not match up.
Seven additional candidate nominations for the International Board of Directors were made from the floor.

A motion to restore the Good of The Order to the Business Meeting was made, debated and on vote, defeated.

More later.. must get to next session..
K. Foley

The Calm Before the Storm

2008-07-26T22:02:00.003-04:00

Good evening from New Orleans..

Tomorrow the first business session starts at 9am. The Delegate and alternates briefing begins at 8am. This briefing is directed at the chapter members selected as delegates and alternates and reviews the protocol for the business sessions.

I spent a good part of my day as Chapter President, meeting up with some of our peers from other chapters- Turner Broadcasting (Atlanta) and lots of folks from the Greater New England Division. I also spent time meeting with vendors ahead of the Expo to determine interest in supporting (financially or promotionally) Capital's upcoming programs for the 2009 year. One very interesting vendor is Office Arrow (www.officearrow.com). Check it out. We'll talk more about that after the Expo.

International is always fascinating. I try to spend time with chapter members..but also spend time meeting other peers that I normally do not get to see or just to introduce Capital.

Tonight a group of Capital members dined together.. and throughout the day we would see each other in passing. But tomorrow.. we get down to the Business of the Association --Don Bretthauer, IAAP Association Executive Director will provide his annual report. International President Judy McCoy will also provide her "state of the Association." We'll continue to learn more about where the Association is heading.

While there is not too much to report today.. I'm certain there will be much detail for tomorrow, Monday and Tuesday. Stay tuned...

Thanks! K. Foley

New Orleans

2008-07-25T23:18:00.001-04:00

Quick note tonight.. it is late.. and humid and I'm dog-tired. I will need to get up early and register. Promise a better update tomorrow am.

Last Minute Communications

2008-07-24T01:34:00.002-04:00

Nothing like being out of the office for a week to motivate me to be certain I've got a handle on all the projects assigned to me.

Just before I leave for New Orleans... I will make a status update list and provide it to my supervisor. I'll send an email with my itinerary to my company owner and the office manager.
I'll gladly arrange my desk and files with pertinent notes.

But.. given that it is 1:30am EDT.. I better get myself to snoozy land so that any last minute communications are clear.

International Convention- New Orleans

2008-07-20T20:58:00.002-04:00

While the IAAP Convention will be underway this time next week... I can't help but reflect on the perspective after attending several.

First year- I was exhausted... all that talking, meeting hundreds of peers, attending workshops... the socials etc. too darn much.

Last year- A bit more focused. Really pared down to what I had to attend and took much better care of myself. It is so easy to go, go and go some more at this event. So much to cram in.

This year.. I'm heading to convention a day earlier.. I might even get to see the city I'm visiting! I'm staying one day later.. I have fewer courses. I've scheduled my networking with friends outside of my division so our socializing won't be crammed in..last minute. And, the business sessions will be so important!

Please take a few minutes to go to the IAAP Headquarters Main page. Login under Members Place. You'll note several highlighted links to important dates and documents. Please take a few minutes to review and read the proposed by-law changes AND the proposed new rules for running for International Board of Directors. It is important to be informed.

As mentioned, I will try to blog from the convention. It ought to be interesting!

K. Foley

Quick Update from DE-MD-DC Leadership Conference

2008-07-12T19:57:00.002-04:00

Hello Capital Chapter Members!

I have a bunch of documents and info to share with chapter members from today's Leadership Conference that was held in Lanham.

Over 70 DE-MD-DC Division chapter members were in attendance. As you can imagine.. some folks had to travel several hours to get to the session!

Stay tuned for updates. I will continue to work on getting the distribution set up from my computer.

They will go out in the next few days. I will also post them to the Chapter Website . You'll have to log in through Members Place to access these documents; then click on Drive me home to get to the Capital Homepage!

PLEASE NOTE: The Division leadership is reviewing and finalizing the 2008-2009 Point Schedule form. As soon as it is finalized, I will be forwarding it to all chapter members.

I appreciate your patience while we get all the pieces in place for our 2008-2009 Program Year. Feel free to contact me or any chapter officer for more info.

-KFoley

Guest Blog: Becoming a Legal Assistant

2008-07-03T20:13:00.003-04:00

This blog is authored by Patricia Robb, Web author of "Laughing All the Way to Work: A Survival Blog for Today's Administrative Assistant"
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Assistants and the Law: Becoming a legal assistant...

Law chose me and not the other way around...I had minimal experience in law and no formal training. I worked for a criminal lawyer for a short time and didn’t like it. It was disconcerting to me to hear on the news there was a murder only to find the accused in the office the next day retaining my lawyer as legal counsel. I thought I would never work in a law firm again, but years later I ended up in law one more time.

I was temping and hoping for permanent work when I got an opportunity for a one-year contract with a law firm. The area of law was Corporate, which eased my mind, and eleven years later I am still in law, although now in the Employment and Labour law field. The lawyer who hired me back then knew I lacked a legal background, but he told me he would take care of the legal if I would take care of being fast and efficient.

There are many areas you can go into in law and some of them can be very interesting.

· Commercial and Residential Real Estate law
· Wills and Estates
· Family law
· Litigation
· Corporate and Securities law
· Employment and Labour law
· Intellectual Property and Copyright law
· Tax law... and more

Some of these areas require more training than others. In Corporate law I was able to learn on the job, litigation however would require more knowledge and training because of the rules and procedures of the court that you would need to have a good working knowledge of.

A college education in a legal assistant course is a definite asset, but equivalent work experience can be just as useful. If you have an opportunity like I did to work with a lawyer who will mentor and train you, that is ideal. A trained legal assistant is invaluable to a lawyer and can relieve their workload to concentrate on their expertise.

Working in a law firm is usually on a one-on-one or two-on-one basis. You need to be able to work as a team with the lawyers you are assigned and work to accomplish a common goal.

Some skills that I believe a legal assistant must have are as follows:

Clients are special. The clients of a law firm are the bread and butter that keep the firm going. You need to have excellent client relations to work in a law firm. Sometimes when a client cannot get in touch with their lawyer you can almost hear a sigh of relief when they get through to their assistant. You are representing your lawyer on the telephone and by e-mail. Friendly, but professional is always a good rule of thumb, but keep in mind you are not a lawyer and can only take messages or direct their calls to another lawyer who can help. Always try and take detailed messages to pass on to the lawyer and never attempt to give legal advice, even if you think you know the answer, unless it is something specific your lawyer has asked you to pass on. Reassure them you will have someone get back to them as soon as possible and then make sure someone does.

Pay attention to detail. The little things matter in a law practice. Be aware that your lawyer will be looking at every little detail because not letting things get by them is something a lawyer needs to do and they are good at it. As their assistant you will need to be someone who pays attention to detail so you can assist them in putting out a good product.

Dates are extremely important in a law firm. A good date and time calculator is a necessity. http://www.timeanddate.com/date/dateadd.html

There are court dates that need to be remembered and diarized. You will need to know the proper forms to file and schedule reminders for your lawyer to start preparing for something that is coming up. There are dates to schedule for mediations and arbitrations, pre-trial hearings, settlement conferences and more.

Your lawyer will sometimes receive demand letters from lawyers on the opposite side of an issue who threaten court action unless you respond in a certain number of days. These dates cannot be ignored and must be diarized. Being comfortable with managing a calendar is a must.

Scheduling dates. Scheduling dates requires good organization and common sense. You don’t want to schedule your lawyer with back-to-back hearings or meetings. There is a lot of preparation involved in getting ready for court appearances, mediations and arbitration hearings and you must keep that in mind when you are scheduling your lawyer.

You will also be scheduling dates with multiple parties who have very busy schedules. Being creative in finding dates is a useful skill.

Rules, rules, rules. The court has many rules for filing documents and handling matters of the court. There are timelines when court documents need to be filed. There is a proper form of document, the correct number of copies required and many other rules that need to be followed. There are court rule books that you can look at to get the information for the various filings. You will also need to keep in mind that there are different courts with different rules. You must read everything you get from the court and diarize the dates, with appropriate reminders, and highlight them for your lawyer. The court rule book will become your working bible.

Mums the word. Be careful what you say and who you say it to. Due to the nature of working in a law firm, you are dealing with confidential information that cannot be leaked or talked about except with your lawyer. Keep in mind that sometimes a lawyer from the opposite side will call wanting information and they are skilled at interrogation. You may give information out that your boss would not want the other side to know about. Know what information you can and cannot give.

Marketing and your lawyer. Lawyers need to sell their expertise and in order to do that they need to market themselves by speaking at conferences and writing legal articles for magazines. Being quoted in a newspaper or magazine article is an important part of being a lawyer. They are experts in what they do and their profile increases when they are quoted in the media. As a legal assistant you will be required to type articles and prepare PowerPoint presentations. Excellent proofreading skills will be important and knowledge on how to properly cite references will be a necessary skill. You want your lawyer to shine.

That’s not all folks...There is also the administrative side to working for a lawyer which includes preparing expense reports, making sure membership and insurance dues are paid on time, requisitioning cheques and the regular workday needs of a busy executive.

Before you turn and run. Realize that you as the assistant do not have to know everything. The lawyer you work for is ultimately responsible for what goes out. They are the experts in the law and the more you work together as a team, the more success you will have as a legal assistant. And don’t forget the other legal assistants in the firm. They can be a great resource and help when you are starting out.

I have found that being in a specialized field like law also increases your chances of employment. A good legal assistant is sought out by law firms and depending on your experience, the salary can be high.

The job of legal assistant is hard work and can be demanding, but it is also very rewarding and interesting. If you are the type of person who likes to be on the front lines, being in the legal field is the place to be.

Introducing Patricia Robb

2008-07-01T19:55:00.003-04:00

Let me introduce you to Patricia Robb. Patricia's Blogger User Profile is below-- but to me -she is an out-front, go-get-em kind of admin. She often is far ahead of this writer when it comes to the gadgets and shortcuts on social networking and blogging sites.

I had the pleasure of having our blog and my personal blog noticed by Patricia due to my IAAP license plate photo! We have been in touch and shared links to many other administratively-oriented blogs.. ever since. She will be providing an article in the next day or so, regarding her foray at the beginning of her administrative career- -entering the field as a legal assistant. Feel free to preview her perspective on the field and her superb writing style at her blog:

Laughing All the Way to Work: A Survival Blog for Today's Administrative Assistant

Patricia Robb has been an Administrative Assistant for almost 30 years. She is a member of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), Ottawa Chapter, and is the Membership Chair for 2008/2009. Patricia does freelance writing in Ottawa, Canada. She is also a licensed hairdresser. You can reach her at pattyannrobb@rogers.com

Leadership and Awards Ceremony

2008-06-19T21:40:00.004-04:00

Capital Chapter held its annual Officer Installation and Member Awards ceremony on Wednesday, June 18, 2008 at the offices of Finnegan, Henderson in downtown Washington, DC. Approximately 25-30 members and guests attended this wonderful event.

The Chapter Member of the Year award was presented to Cynthia Williams CPS/CAP , and each committee chair presented certificates to their respective committee participants.

Outgoing President Pat May CPS/CAP was presented with a service and leadership award from the chapter members. In addition, a donation was made to Capital Hospice by chapter members in the amount of $100.00. Pat stated that Capital Hospice is a charity close to her heart, as it had served Pat's family when her husband Jim had been ill and kept him in peace until his passing.

The following new officers were installed by Kim Hamilton CPS/CAP.

President- Kemetia MK Foley CPS/CAP
Vice President - Barbara 'BJ' Parrish
Secretary- Linda Henderson
Treasurer- Dexter K. Allen CPS

The new board will take over officially on July 1, 2008.

Kemetia MK Foley CPS/CAP announced the theme for the chapter for the 2008-2009 Program Year: Pride in Our Profession. The logo will be posted here and on the chapter website on or around July 1, 2008.

Many thanks to our outgoing board members for their service during the 2007-2008 term, especially Rosalind Reynolds CPS/CAP (Treasurer) and Linda Street CPS (Secretary). Thank you for your time dedicated to chapter events and tasks.

Before you know it.. it will be time to head to IAAP International meeting in New Orleans to elect and install a new President of the International Board.

Happy Summer, everyone! Please continue to visit the chapter website and this blog for updates during the summer months.

Visiting Other Chapters...Other Divisions..Part II

2008-06-12T08:47:00.002-04:00

Ever have an afternoon or a late night bout of insomnia and do nothing but troll the web? I suffer from insomnia when I am stressed so lately.. I have been doing a lot of web research (smile).

My new favorite thing to do is to check out other Division and chapter websites. I have several motives. One, to see what the layout and color scheme is; Do they use the calendar function? Do they post alot of chapter event pictures etc.

I dig deeper to look at their chapter events. How are they advertised, processed and how often is the chapter offering events. What methods are they using to receive payment for events? PayPal? Check only?

Do they include the chapter by-laws and minutes from board meetings? Are there materials available for members that can't make a meeting? Say, a handout or contact information for the speaker?

After visiting Seattle and then returning to DC I realized Capital Chapter website does.. ok. Here is a great opportunity for someone that wants to develop more websavvy...learn about websites and do it at a level that is not going to impact their workplace. Same goes for our chapter newsletter. There are loads of opportunities to learn and grow.. and of course, these add to a resume skill set, always a bonus when meeting with your current supervisor or looking for a new position.

Soon we'll have a new chapter webmaster. Graciously, Oliver Murdock CPS/CAP has agreed to take on this vital and important task. So... if you are interested in helping out, I'm sure he'd love to have more assistance.
Thanks, Oliver! Here we go into the 2008-2009 year for Capital.

Respectfully,

Kemetia

Visiting other Chapters.. Other Divisions.. Part I

2008-05-21T22:51:00.004-04:00

I recently traveled to Seattle, Washington for a work assignment. As I usually do, I looked up the local IAAP chapter info and sent an email to the chapter president. Having an IAAP contact in a city you've never visited can be tremendously helpful to you or your boss - especially for those unplanned issues that seem to always arise at the last minute. I highly recommend reaching out to other chapters/divisions to establish contacts in other cities.

Washington-Alaska (WA-AK) Division is the home division to the current International Board President for IAAP, Judy McCoy CPS. I had the benefit of realizing that their Division was hosting their annual meeting in Seattle while there so I arranged to attend their closing dinner banquet.

One thing I learned is just how different the Division and Chapter personalities are.. just like our Division - Delaware-Maryland-District of Columbia. I also learned that for the Alaska members to attend the Division meeting-- they have to fly, yes... FLY to attend their division meeting. So you can imagine that many of those members must chose between attending Division meetings or International.. just based on cost alone.

The WA-AK Division also has fundraising challenges.. just like our Division. They had a live and silent auction the night of the dinner. I cannot tell you how impressed I was with the auctioneer ( a chapter member). Unfortunately, I missed her name.

They also have to compete with other events for member attendance. The Seattle Mariners had a game that evening and of course, many members had family obligations for proms/graduations and such. So this is not unique.

What I did believe was different... was the networking. Not alot of wandering around to each others tables to chat or visit. Pretty much stayed at the tables with their chapter mates.. ..

More on these thoughts will follow... but overall Seattle is a really fascinating city .. Great shopping.. and hosted a wonderful division dinner.

Administrative Professionals Week-Washington DC Style

2008-04-06T17:42:00.006-04:00

Administrative Professionals Day is rapidly approaching. For DC Area admins.. I'd wager that a majority of us are involved in either scheduling our own recognition lunch with our supervisor OR scheduling the recognition event for officemates.

In DC, April is undoubtedly the most trying and superbusy month for admins because not only are we contending with throngs, ney, hoards of tourists joining our daily commute into work-- but congressional schedules are packed with committee meetings/sessions that many of our supervisors either follow or need to follow for congressional budgeting.

Many of us work with firms that handle corporate finance and personal taxes. April is yet another busy time for this as well due to quarterly filings and then our own.

I love working in DC. There is such a conglomerate of job options for the experienced, career-minded admin. If you are a protocol junkie.. this is your city.. whether it's working for an Embassy, a defense agency or any number of the meeting or catering industry companies-- your work as an admin has no downtime.

If you love to work for a cause... this is your city. Every political, social or environmental cause has representation here. Even if you cannot land a job, you can sign up to volunteer.

Suppose you want to work in International Finance from the World Bank , International Monetary Fund or the Inter-American Development Bank... to the vast corporate accounting giants like KPMG... you are set to find the number crunching job of your almighty Excel dreams...

So as we approach Administrative Professionals Day/Week- I want to salute my friends and co-workers as well as fellow IAAP members. Here's hoping your work is recognized by your DC area employer in a positive and respectful fashion.