The Crodie Files Podcast- For Administrative Assistants and Business Support Professionals

Craig Bryson & Jodie Mears

The Crodie Files is a podcast hosted by two career Executive Assistants currently in the role, supporting C-Suite Corporate Executives.

With over 40 years of combined industry experience,  we came together to share the knowledge!

We unite Administrative Professionals, Assistants, and all Business Support Professionals globally with our honest, realistic approach to common questions and problem-solving.

Our show provides a space for listeners to learn about the challenges and triumphs of the Assistant Profession and to gain insights into the strategies and approaches that make these professionals successful.​
Our episodes are kept to around 30 minutes as we appreciate how precious your time is and never use a typical interview format. Instead, our voice note approach makes each episode easy to listen to and relatable.

Our "Hi Crodie..." initiative is where we invite you to send in your questions, bugbears, and comments that relate to the role and your learning & development. To be featured on the show visit our website www.craigandjodie.com and send in yours today.

If you enjoy listening to our podcast, please support us to help keep the Crodie Files going https://www.buzzsprout.com/2227725

Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.

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Episodes

Bonus Episode: Mastering Tech, AI, Networks & Communities - Insights from Becky Kaapuni
Sep 3 2024
Bonus Episode: Mastering Tech, AI, Networks & Communities - Insights from Becky Kaapuni
Send us a textThe Crodie Files meet with special guest Becky Kaapuni, Senior EA to the CEO at Salesforce AI and founder of EA Social Club, to share valuable insights for administrative and business support professionals looking to adapt to the fast-paced evolution of their roles. Becky, Craig & Jodie discussed this listener question:Listener question: “Hi Crodie: The pace at which our role is moving is too fast for me to keep up and get on with my day job. Any tips for navigating this, specifically technology? What do I need to know as a bare minimum right now”?This is an episode that will be great to share and tap into at any stage in your career, we discussed:Strategies for managing workload and prioritising tasksLeveraging AI and other technologies to streamline work processesThe importance of continuous learning and adapting to new toolsNetworking strategies for administrative professionalsDifferent approaches to learning and developmentCareer development and growth for Executive AssistantsAdapting to change and futureproofing your administrative careerChapters:(if you can find the timestamps)[00:04:00] Prioritising Tasks and Managing Workload[00:07:00] Leveraging AI and Technology in EA Roles[00:19:00] Networking and Knowledge-Sharing StrategiesWe invite you to share your own experiences and strategies through our "Hi Crodie..." initiative. Get involved and send us your questions.Value Bombs:"We are the CEOs of our own life, and it's our responsibility to make sure that we are living the life that matches our values." - Becky Kaapuni"It's not all about knowing everything. It's about staying curious, being adaptable and willing to learn."- Craig Bryson"Learning and development isn't a one singular course or a destination, Think about who and what's around you already- lean into that." - Jodie Mears YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/SuuJVjj--UMSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP 15: The Future of Learning & Development with Fiona Young
Jul 10 2024
EP 15: The Future of Learning & Development with Fiona Young
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears are joined by Fiona Young- founder of Carve. Stay tuned till the end as they discuss traditional learning, emerging technologies, and the importance of continuous professional development for administrative assistants.Listener question Hi Crodie: I'm feeling overwhelmed by all the new learning technologies out there. How can I decide which ones are worth investing my time in, and how do I approach my boss about getting support for these learning opportunities?Fiona Young Fiona is the founder of Carve a company that provides live digital courses for executive assistants. From her start as an EA in venture capital to leading learning programs for thousands, Fiona's insights on professional growth and AI are not to be missed.Connect with Fiona for more information on how she can help you and your organisation and visit her website.So much value was shared during this episode including:The shift from traditional to modern learning approaches in admin rolesExploring the potential of VR and metaverse for future training coursesThe role of gamification in enhancing learning and developmentThe importance of personalized learning and adapting to different learning stylesLeveraging micro-learning and bite-sized content for continuous growthThe impact of learning and development on employee engagement and retentionStrategies for approaching your boss about learning opportunitiesWe invite you to share your own experiences and strategies through our "Hi Crodie..." initiative. Get involved and send us your questions.Value BombsJodie Mears: "I think making that connection between my learning and development is important because it really does enhance employee engagement and employee retention".Fiona Young: "Tech advances will actually mean that we'll move back towards face to face".Craig Bryson: "At the moment we have the VR, so the hardware is going to be more streamlined because at the moment it's a bit clunky..."Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP 14:Administrative Assistants: Leveraging Learning for Career Advancement with Vonetta Watson
Jun 19 2024
EP 14:Administrative Assistants: Leveraging Learning for Career Advancement with Vonetta Watson
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this insightful episode  Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears along with guest contributor Vonetta Watson delve into the crucial topic of how administrative assistants can leverage learning and development opportunities for career growth.Listener questionHi Crodie:  I've been in EA for over 30 years now. The technology advances have been epic over this time. What advice would you give to someone just starting out? For example, what should they focus on? Thanks. Vonetta Watson, a seasoned Microsoft certified trainer and technology strategist, shares her expertise and helps to unpack this great timeless question. Connect with Vonetta for more information on how she can help you and your organisation https://www.techgemtech.com/ So much value was shared during this episode including:Identifying career goals and aligning learning for professional growthCultivating a continuous learning mindset to break out of career stagnationMastering technology adaptability is a necessity for modern assistantsDeveloping both hard and soft skills for holistic professional developmentImplementing the AAA approach (Adapt, Adopt, Advance) to technology empowermentEvaluating and enhancing your digital toolbox to keep pace with advancing technologyWe invite you to share your own experiences and strategies through our "Hi Crodie..." initiative get involved and send us your questions.Value Bombs "Maintaining tooling up truly takes shape when you grab hold of the technology while it advances. Move and learn when it shifts." - Vonetta Watson"Align everything with your vision and your goal of where you want to get to and seek out the right training opportunities".- Jodie Mears"You have to look into yourself and find out what do you want. What do you want to learn?   Don't just learn things that you're going to forget in a couple of weeks"- Craig Bryson Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
Bonus Episode: Confidence Visibility and Growth- Insights from Zoe Hill
May 29 2024
Bonus Episode: Confidence Visibility and Growth- Insights from Zoe Hill
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!From Invisible to Invincible- The Crodie Files meet with special guest Zoe Hill former Chief of Staff and founder of Premier Admin Services to share valuable insights for administrative and business support professionals looking to take their careers to the next level.Zoe, Craig & Jodie discussed this listener question: Listener question Hi Crodie: If you could have predicted your career path what one thing would you have done in the early days (course and learning-wise) to make your future role easier or more manageable?So much value through lived experience was shared  during this bonus episode including;Networking strategies for administrative professionalsBuilding confidence and overcoming imposter syndromeEssential skills for modern administrative rolesCareer development and growth for Executive AssistantsAdapting to change and futureproofing your administrative careerChapters: 11:40 Professional Growth and Networking Tips18:22 Sharing Knowledge With Premier Admin ServicesWe invite you to share your own experiences and strategies through our "Hi Crodie..." initiative get involved and send us your questions.Value Bombs "Asking questions and understanding the business is the key to unlocking your value as an administrative professional." - Zoe Hill  "Mentorship is the fast track to success. Learn from those who have walked the path before you." - Craig  "The modern administrative professional is a strategic partner, not just a support role. Own your value and make your mark." - Jodie Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP 13 The Power of Personal Branding for Administrative Professionals with David Coslett
May 15 2024
EP 13 The Power of Personal Branding for Administrative Professionals with David Coslett
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears dive into the power of personal branding for administrative professionals. They discuss the importance of assistants developing a strong personal brand, provide guidelines on how to do so effectively and share compelling reasons why it matters for career growth and success.The conversation covers how personal branding reflects your online reputation, helps you stand out and showcase your unique skills, builds credibility and trust, and enables you to connect with others by sharing your authentic experiences. Craig and Jodie also touch on how a well-crafted personal brand can position you as an influencer at work, aid in networking, and give you a competitive edge in the job market.They offer practical tips such as choosing the right social media platform for your goals and audience, sharing valuable content reflecting your distinct voice, and engaging with others' content to inspire your creativity.The episode also features a listener question on where to begin with personal branding, with guest expert David Coslett providing insightful advice on platform selection, authenticity, and delivering value to your target audience.Our listener question "Where should you begin with personal branding"? is expertly answered by David Coslett- Marketing Director of Hello Social Value Bombs"Your personal branding is connecting with others through your lived experience. It adds credibility to the things we share on LinkedIn" - Jodie Mears"If you think and feel it's wrong, do it. It's you that's stopping you. It's what you've been programmed, that it's wrong. If it feels uncomfortable, then it's the right thing to do." - Craig BrysonSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP12: Mastering Common Administrative Assistant Hurdles: Strategies & Solutions with Abigail Barnes
Apr 17 2024
EP12: Mastering Common Administrative Assistant Hurdles: Strategies & Solutions with Abigail Barnes
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! In this episode, Craig and Jodie discuss five common hurdles that administrative assistants face and provide strategies to overcome them with our expert contributor- Abigail Barnes adding her insightful wisdom to our listener question.You will learn proven strategies for improving communication, organization, tech skills, time management and implementing feedback effectively. From leveraging the right tools and upskilling executives to applying expert techniques like the "TTT" model, this is a masterclass in overcoming common roadblocks and levelling up as a top-performing assistant. Our listener question:  Hi Crodie: "I am an EA of 10 years and love my role! I have attended time management courses in the past but cannot seem to implement the tips when I get back to my desk, I have to juggle all of the time which I have learned to do really well - do you have any tips for me to retain knowledge"? Time management expert Abigail Barnes reveals a powerful 3-step process to retain and implement training learnings before returning to your desk. By identifying your "why" for the training, listing key takeaways, mapping them to your challenges, and creating an action plan for the biggest overlap area - you'll turn knowledge into application. This method helps you truly own what you've learned and start sequencing tasks more effectively, rather than constantly juggling.Our expert contributor: Abigail BarnesAbigail Barnes is the founder and CEO of Success by Design Training, an award-winning entrepreneur, author, speaker, and corporate trainer on time management and productive wellbeing. She is a qualified coach and creator of the renowned 888 Formula and host of The Time Management Podcast.Connect with Abigail today and check out her podcast too!LinkedinWebsiteThe Time Management PodcastValue BombsJodie Mears - "I think assumptions can be made if you don't communicate effectively at the beginning of a professional relationship".Craig Bryson - "I always want feedback, even if it's positive or negative. How am I supposed to develop myself if I don't know what is wrong".Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
Bonus Episode: Are courses for a Chief of Staff Role really worth it? with Annie Croner
Apr 10 2024
Bonus Episode: Are courses for a Chief of Staff Role really worth it? with Annie Croner
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Learning & Development for a Chief of Staff RoleJoin us in another bonus episode where we join forces to answer our listener question with the amazing Annie Croner, CEO & Founder of Whole Assistant and EA Trainer & Coach.  Annie hosts the Whole Assistant Podcast among many other valuable offerings to the administrative profession.  Connect with Annie on LinkedIn HERE and read more about her on our website HERE    In this episode,  we answer our listener question on the hot topic of inching towards that Chief of Staff role. You will discover that certifications can be more than just a decorative line on your resume/CV,  they’re stepping stones for personal and professional growth.Listener questionHi CRODIE: I want to shoot for a CoS position from an EA position of 12 years experience. There are a lot of options out there for L&D courses for CoS - are any of these worthwhile? Is there just 1 that really packs a punch? Do they matter? Do they count? Will they help me get a foot in the door? Please helpCraig, Jodie and Annie share thoughts and discuss insights on levelling up your career, whether you're aiming for a Chief of Staff role or want to become a more strategic business partner. Get ready to be empowered and love your role! Annie also breaks down the key ingredients for executive assistants to seamlessly transition into strategic roles, highlighting the value of internal projects and the impact of social proof on your career path. Value Bombs"Do they count? Do chief of staff certifications count? Yes, but only in terms of your professional development. I don't think a chief of staff qualification is going to get you a role." - Annie Croner"I love this role and I have a passion for it. You want to have that drive and that passion to be able to retain that information." - Craig Bryson"Education is key, personal development, professional development is key. There is not going to be a magic pill for this chief of staff role." - Jodie MearsCheck out The Whole Assistant Podcast HERE for more information and inspiration! Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP11:Navigating Office Protocol for Administrative Assistants with Joan Burge
Mar 27 2024
EP11:Navigating Office Protocol for Administrative Assistants with Joan Burge
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management. Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Are your office conversations hitting the mark or missing the connection? Discover how to bring back the charm of telephone manners in an era where inboxes and instant messaging rule. Craig and Jodie unpack the subtleties of office communication and invite you on a journey to rekindle the personal touch. From the strategic placement of contact details in email signatures to the art of phone introductions, this episode of the Crodie Files is all about mastering the blend of old-school etiquette with new-school tech.Email threads can be a minefield of misunderstood tones. Hear us discuss the power of personalization in email crafting, and take away practical tips to aid your role. But it's not just about what you say it's about how you use your human intelligence (H.I.) to enhance your efficiency and warmth. Lastly, from 'reply all' catastrophes to the nuances of executive boundary setting, Craig and Jodie draw from their vast experiences to offer solidarity and strategies for handling the hurdles.  Our listener question: "What certifications are helping assistants progress at the moment? There are so many with Post-nominal initials but what relevance (if any) do they offer and what results have you seen from investing in courses that give you this result"?Our expert contributor: Joan Burge Joan is the pioneer of the administrative training industry and the founder of Office Dynamics International.  Joan has created numerous innovative programs and courses that inspire excellence and empower assistants to reach for the stars. She is the host of the Annual Conference for Administrative Excellence and the author of four books for administrative professionals. Connect with Joan Burge and Office Dynamics to explore training options and learn more. Joan's LinkedIn Office Dynamics LinkedInFree Webinars from JoanValue BombsJoan Burge - "I love this question about certifications and designations. It's fabulous. So first of all, they are different.  A certification does not always come with a professional designation, but a professional designation will include certification".Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
Bonus Episode: Personal Branding & Generative AI Tips for Administrative Assistants with Amelia Sordell & Amy Lester
Mar 13 2024
Bonus Episode: Personal Branding & Generative AI Tips for Administrative Assistants with Amelia Sordell & Amy Lester
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Elevate and Automate | Personal Branding & AI for Assistants Join us for this memorable, interactive episode recorded LIVE at The PA Show London!This was the first time The PA Show had a podcast for administrative professionals exhibiting and delivering a Keynote Session - we are incredibly proud of this one! Have you ever wondered how you can elevate or even get started with your personal branding and why it is necessary for our profession? In this bonus episode also available to watch on YouTube we share personal stories of growth, illustrating how authenticity isn’t just a buzzword, but the currency of personal branding.Our guest speaker, world-class personal branding strategist,  LinkedIn's top voice influencer, speaker, advisor & founder at Klowt - the personal branding agency -Amelia Sordell, sheds light and shares top tips to get started for Administrative Assistants. Are you overwhelmed with the THOUSANDS of AI tool options to assist us in our tasks and want to know first-hand from a successful Virtual Assistant how to stay ahead of the game? Our other guest speaker Amy Lester - business owner,  executive assistant, VA mentor and coach, shares her top tips and knowledge from a virtual assistant's perspective.Your personal brand is more than a self-promotional tool—it's a magnet for attracting those who will propel you towards your 'North Star'. It's about networking with purpose, giving value without expectation, and the realization that follower counts pale in comparison to genuine connections. We invite you to share your own experiences and strategies through our "Hi Crodie..." initiative get involved and send us your questions.Value BombsAmelia Sordell - " Personal branding is essentially your reputation at scale, right? Every single one of you has got your roles in the jobs that you're in right now because of your reputation to deliver results for your customers or your employers, right? Your personal brand is simply an elevation of that.".Amy Lester – " Certainly for me, the way that I utilise AI at the moment is in areas that maybe I'm not particularly strong. ".Support the Show.Help us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
Bonus Episode:Find out what we are planning next and our end of year round up 2023
Jan 31 2024
Bonus Episode:Find out what we are planning next and our end of year round up 2023
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Welcome to our first Bonus Episode of The Crodie Files PodcastWe have had so many "Hi Crodie..." questions (more than we know what to do with) sent in by you - our amazing community and listeners, we will be producing bonus episodes of The Crodie Files to keep the conversation going and the knowledge sharing flowing!They will be:▶Video as well as audio recorded▶"Hi Crodie" questions answered by your hosts PLUS a special expert guest on video▶In addition to our studio-recorded podcast▶Short and sweet 10-12 mins long, each bonus episode will cover 1 listener question▶Uploaded to our YouTube channel▶Still very much educational, relatable, and sharable!So if you prefer a visual podcast, we have you covered-check out our first bonus episode introduction and our 2023 end-of-year round-up on YouTube and help us stay visible to you by subscribing to our channel.Hit that notification bell so you never miss an episode - we have some great guests lined up for these Bonus Episodes to tackle your "Hi Crodie..." questions from Administrative and Business Support Professionals globally!Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP10:Our secrets on work-life balance without compromising productivity or family time
Dec 20 2023
EP10:Our secrets on work-life balance without compromising productivity or family time
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears reveal their secrets of achieving that elusive work-life balance, specifically crafted for the everyday heroes – Administrative Assistants. We're laying all cards on the table, discussing the changes in work culture triggered by the pandemic, the shift towards remote work, and the mandatory act of prioritizing health, family, and self-care.What if we told you that you could achieve a work-life balance without compromising productivity or family time? Intriguing, right? Get ready to transform your routine as we address a listener's query on balancing work and personal life, with real, actionable advice based on our own experiences.You've heard of work-life balance, but what about work-life harmony? It's all about communication, self-assessment, and effectively utilizing health awareness programs.We invite you, our listeners, to share your own experiences and strategies through our social media and our "Hi Crodie..." initiative which is your burning thoughts and questions. Keep in mind that every piece of advice is unbiased, and remember that each individual's journey to a harmonious work-life balance is unique. So, get in touch via our LinkedIn page or website, and let’s continue this vital conversation. Value BombsJodie Mears - "So, therefore worklife balance, worklife has changed permanently".Craig Bryson – "Putting yourself at the front, instead of putting others before you".Please support usHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website.Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedInPinterestXTikTokSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP9:The Administrative Assistant's guide to using new tech.
Dec 6 2023
EP9:The Administrative Assistant's guide to using new tech.
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Ready to supercharge your administrative skills with the latest tech? You're in the right place! We're taking you through the dynamic world of new technology and how it applies to administrative professionals like us.   We're talking about the value of lifelong learning and continuous professional development, and how it aids in navigating the ever-changing tech landscape.  From our personal experiences with CPD (continuous professional development), we've seen it boost career growth and help us utilize a range of communication tools and apps for improved productivity and collaboration. Stay tuned as we discuss embracing advancements and nurturing an attitude of relentless curiosity.  We're also sharing some real-world wisdom on how to handle the inevitable difficult interactions with prickly clients or colleagues - it's all about kindness, understanding, and patience.   Listen to our engaging listener question about fostering a positive relationship with a challenging executive assistant; we've got some insightful advice up our sleeves. And we're not shying away from the tough stuff - initiating those hard conversations and setting those much-needed boundaries.  It's all part of reaching that desired work-life balance. So lean in, soak up the knowledge, and let's tackle these challenges together! If you have a question for us, send it in via email starting with "Hi Crodie..." to be featured on the show. You can also do this anonymously. Value BombsJodie Mears - ‘Network with a VA, ask them the difference between an employed corporate EA and VA’.Craig Bryson – ‘Champion of change, you can be the Champion of change by learning new software, being one step ahead.  Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP8:Is it time to move on? The Administrative Assistant's Guide to Job Searching with Flow Hancox
Nov 22 2023
EP8:Is it time to move on? The Administrative Assistant's Guide to Job Searching with Flow Hancox
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! Ever wondered when the right time might be to call it a day and explore fresh opportunities beyond your current job? You're not alone. We're diving headfirst into a robust discussion on recognizing the right moment to move on and the art of navigating the choppy waters of job searching. We tackle harsh realities like toxic work environments and the importance of empathy and loyalty in the ever-evolving job market. Take a walk with us as we explore the outside world and its opportunities that may seem like a distant horizon to you right now, but could soon be your reality. Our guest for this episode is Flo Hancox, director of Autograph Events who expertly answers our listener question on arranging internal office events.  We leave no stone unturned, providing you with tangible tips on researching salaries, and job opportunities. Brave the discomfort of discussing earnings and salaries and learn the importance of feeling at ease with your income.   Finally, we share our mantra of 'network, learn, grow’ and how it can set you on a path to career success and provide a glimpse of our next episode discussing administrative assistance and tech. Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP7: What are the typical tasks of an Administrative Assistant? with Shelley Fishel
Nov 9 2023
EP7: What are the typical tasks of an Administrative Assistant? with Shelley Fishel
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode of The Crodie Files, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears discuss the typical tasks of an administrative assistant, emphasising the need to go beyond these tasks and take initiative to add value to the role. They cover good communication skills, proactive work and effective email communication, as well as delving into how different learning styles impact how teams work. Thank you to our listener who sent in a "Hi Crodie..." question:  "How can I manage files and folders in a cloud-based system? What I am doing now is old-fashioned and I would like something new and innovative. Any suggestions?" If you would like to get involved, send in your "Hi Crodie..." question via our website Guest contributor- Shelley Fishel, the MS Office Maestro -world-renowned trainer and speaker shares expert insights on using Microsoft Teams and other Microsoft 365 applications for increasing efficiencies, including the new MS Loop app! Check out Shelley's website for many masterclasses and training options. Value Bombs“Be proactive and anticipate needs is my tip"- Craig Bryson"Really get to grips on timezones!" - Jodie Mears “Generalised tasks are a thing of the past, that kind of rhymes, but I really feel we are on that edge.” - Jodie MearsSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP6:The Future of Administrative Assistants Role: AI The Buzz Word Discussion with Dave Philp
Oct 26 2023
EP6:The Future of Administrative Assistants Role: AI The Buzz Word Discussion with Dave Philp
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears discuss the evolving role of Executive Assistants in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), including Chat GPT. They address the concerns around potential job redundancy, the future of the Assistant's role and stress the importance of staying curious, learning about AI, and using it to enhance efficiencies. Listener Lauren Foster asks an important question which expert guest David Philp, Chief Value Officer at Cohesive Group, shares his insights on AI's opportunities and challenges for Executive Assistants.Value Bombs"One of the things I believe is the role of the Executive PA/EA is incredibly important to well-performing organisations" - David Philp CVO Cohesive Group"Be curious, ask questions, stay on top of the technology, don't shy away from it"- Jodie Mears"Download an AI app and then just give it a go- try it, don't fear it" - Craig BrysonSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP5: What to ask when working with an Executive? with Suzy Sanders
Sep 26 2023
EP5: What to ask when working with an Executive? with Suzy Sanders
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! In this episode of The Crodie Files, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears delve into the complexities of building effective relationships with executives. They discuss key questions to ask, share personal experiences, and offer valuable insights on how to establish trust and understand an executive's priorities. The listener question on improving collaboration with executives is addressed as well as a VA-related question answered by guest contributor  Suzy Sanders, founder of Alchemy Virtual Assistants, who sheds light on the differences between Executive Assistants and Virtual Assistants. Value Bombs"What does a virtual assistant do compared to an executive assistant?" - Lauren Foster "Real-life listener questions from you, our audience who are live in the roles of EAs, PAs, VAs, and all business office support roles." - Jodie MearsSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP4: What Does an Executive Assistant Do on the First Day with Laura Smith
Sep 13 2023
EP4: What Does an Executive Assistant Do on the First Day with Laura Smith
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners! In this episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears provide essential tips for Administrative Assistants starting a new job. They emphasize preparation, authentic networking, and self-confidence. Seasoned Executive Assistant Erica Picton shares her insights in response to our listener question, and Laura Smith- The Energy Coach offers advice on managing burnout and self-improvement. Also, discover the importance of company intranets and name memorization techniques. Value Bombs "Make it your own because you know that you are good at what you do, but you are in a new environment, so you need to know the processes and the platforms." - Craig Bryson"My tips for you are to give yourself as much time before you start to read as much info as you can on the company; for example, find out what systems they use and brush up if need be, If you feel you are a little bit rusty on some of your skills." - Erica Picton Laura Smith- Energy & Wellbeing Coach:https://linktr.ee/LauraSmithlifestyleSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP3:How to Ace your Interview with Steve Hutson
Aug 30 2023
EP3:How to Ace your Interview with Steve Hutson
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this exciting episode, hosts Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears delve into acing job interviews. They'll share personal stories and offer tips to help you nail the interview and land your dream job. Be authentic, prepare by researching the company, and maintain a tidy background for online interviews. Have questions ready for the interviewer and update your LinkedIn profile and CV tailored to the role. Special guest Steve Hutson, a recruitment expert and Founder of Superstars, will discuss connecting during interviews and honesty in responses. Get ready to ace that job interview!Value Bombs “We try to put ourselves in that person's shoes, trying to impress them to get the job. I think what I've started learning now is that I'm just going to be myself. You know? This is who I am; these are my skills. Are you going to hire me?” – Craig Bryson“You obviously need to be earning what you're worth and what you're expected to do needs to reflect that salary.” – Jodie MearsSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP2: How Do You Become An Executive Assistant?
Aug 15 2023
EP2: How Do You Become An Executive Assistant?
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!In this podcast episode, Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears chat about the path to becoming an executive assistant. They highlight crucial skills like organisation, communication, and great customer service. Learning and networking are also key points that are addressed. They share their experiences, emphasising the evolving role of an executive assistant due to technology. Also building self-confidence and trust with executives are top priorities. Then listeners Karen and Aldo contribute their own perspectives, making this episode a must-listen for anyone considering the executive assistant role. They finish the episode with tips for aspiring executive assistants, discussing skill identification, boosting confidence, and staying up-to-date with technical advances.Value Bombs“You've got to be a people person. A great communicator. An effective communicator. You have that customer service mind-set. And by that, don't always think that I mean an external customer. You can think of your internal team as your customer.” – Jodie Mears“If you don't know something, reach out to your network and everybody comes fighting back with answers and quick tips.” – Craig BrysonSupport the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok
EP1:What do Administrative Assistants Do? with Amy Lester
Aug 1 2023
EP1:What do Administrative Assistants Do? with Amy Lester
Send us a textThis episode is sponsored by Autograph Events - THE experts in providing a complete event management solution – from free global venue finding through to full onsite event management.  https://www.autograph-events.co.uk Connect today and ask more about the collaborative promotion for our listeners!Welcome to the first podcast of Craig Bryson and Jodie Mears: our amazing executive assistants. In this episode, we learn one of the most valuable lessons which is to be prepared and proactive. We also embrace adaptability and diverse skills for unexpected career growth, just like Craig's journey from bartending to administrative excellence. Customer service experience is brought up as a powerful asset too. Together let us embrace the evolving nature of administrative roles by continuously learning and staying ahead. Value Bombs“The Global Skills Matrix is a globally recognized framework for administrators and teams that, irrespective of country; makes it possible to identify different levels of work for a given role and career progression opportunities to realise the potential to an organisation of an effective administrator.” – Jodie Mears“That's where your execs always say, work your magic, because they don’t know what's happening in the background because it all just happens naturally.” – Craig BrysonWe would like to thank Amy Lester for her poem!Amy Lester Virtual Assistance, Project Management, Outsourcing, Personal Assistance, Executive Administrative Assistance: https://www.typingandtasks.comWe would also like to thank The Global Skills Matrix, created by The World Administrators Alliance (WAA), for allowing us to mention their brilliant work and a huge thank you to Lucy Brazier OBE and Helen Monument, for their relentless pursuit of driving the profession forward and bringing awareness to all Office Professionals globally. To learn more about the Global Skills Matrix, Lucy Brazier OBE & Helen Monument, click here Support the showHelp us stay visible to you by sharing this episode with someone in your circle as well as following and subscribing so you never miss an episode.Supporters will get a shout-out on social media and in future episodes.Got questions? Don't hesitate to submit them via our website. Buckle up and join us on this journey of discovery and personal growth. Follow and contact us on our socialsWebsiteLinkedIn PinterestXTikTok