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When we talk about revolutionizing the recruitment industry, Pocketbook Agency is a name that can’t be ignored. Co-founded by Brittany Dolin and Nicole Dayan, who themselves were once personal and executive assistants, this agency has transformed the staffing game with its novel approach: the “Smarter Staffing Technique.” However, what exactly does Pocketbook Agency look for in its candidates, and what can aspiring assistants do to stand out? Let’s dive in.
A Brief Overview of Pocketbook Agency
Pocketbook Agency has carved out a niche in the crowded recruiting landscape, focusing on a tailored, human-centric approach. With their expertise in placing executive and personal assistants, estate managers, chiefs of staff, chefs, and other similar positions under the administrative umbrella across both corporate and domestic roles, they’ve made an impact across industries from entertainment to finance, and everything in between. Client satisfaction is their hallmark, with 99% of their new business coming from referrals.
Pocketbook’s Unique Approach: Smarter Staffing Technique
If there’s a singular element that sets Pocketbook apart, it’s their Smarter Staffing Technique. Unlike large, impersonal recruiting agencies, Pocketbook values individualized matchmaking for employers and job seekers. This unique method has been honed over time, taking feedback from both clients and candidates into account to ensure optimal matches.
The Skillset: What Pocketbook Looks For in Administrative Talent
Educational Background
Many successful executive assistant candidates often hold degrees in business administration, finance, marketing, or similar fields. These educational paths equip them with the required skills to manage clerical and organizational tasks effectively, aligning perfectly with the criteria Pocketbook seeks. On the other hand, personal assistant candidates’ experience in their specific role is oftentimes more valuable than a college degree.
Experience Matters
A wealth of experience in administrative roles is non-negotiable for Pocketbook. Past responsibilities like managing large events, overseeing multiple calendars, extensive travel planning (oftentimes working with private airplanes and multiple home locations), and effective communication build a robust skill set and create seamless working relationships within an organization. The requirements for every open position are different, and Pocketbook hones in on the skills and experience needed for successful placement based on the employer’s needs, creating a curated candidate pool sourced specifically for each role.
The Soft Skills
In all administrative roles, soft skills are incredibly important since candidates work so closely with their employer, oftentimes in their personal space and lives. Pocketbook identifies candidates with high emotional intelligence—those who can “read the room” and adapt, thus contributing to a more harmonious work environment.
Technical Proficiency
As we navigate the digital age, Pocketbook emphasizes tech-savvy candidates. A strong command over Microsoft Office and familiarity with CRM systems and other industry-standard software tools are not just additional skills, but necessities.
Adaptability and Integrity
Roles in administration require juggling various tasks. Pocketbook appreciates candidates who not only adapt but show an unwavering sense of trust and integrity—qualities that form the bedrock of long-term employer-staff relationships.
Networking and Professional Development
Networking is invaluable in any job search, and Pocketbook values candidates who take this seriously. Being an active participant in industry events, professional organizations, and online platforms like LinkedIn adds weight to a candidate’s profile.
The Road Ahead
Pocketbook has already gained traction in cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Austin, and more locations across the United States in their nine years of business. As they continue to grow, their focus remains constant—client and candidate satisfaction.
If you are an employer looking to hire for an administrative role in either the corporate or domestic setting, Pocketbook can find your perfect match when it comes to new hires. If you’re an executive assistant, personal assistant, Chief of Staff, Estate Manager, Chef, or other other administrative candidate eager to ascend your career ladder or an employer in search of exemplary administrative talent, Pocketbook Agency, with its well-curated approach, could be your passport to professional success.
For more information, feel free to check out Pocketbook Agency’s website, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
