Every office has its unsung heroes, the administrative professionals who keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
These professionals are the backbone of any workplace, from managing schedules and handling communications to organizing events and ensuring day-to-day efficiency. However, their contributions can sometimes go unnoticed.
Charlie Melvoin, Co Founder of Zygo, a company whose headphones let you listen to music while swimming, says, “Administrative Professionals Day is the perfect opportunity to recognize and appreciate these hardworking individuals. A simple ‘thank you’ is always meaningful, but going the extra mile to show genuine appreciation can boost morale, job satisfaction, and overall workplace culture.”
This article will explore 11 thoughtful ways to celebrate the administrative professionals in your office, not just on this special day but throughout the year. Remember, when administrative professionals feel supported, the entire organization thrives.
1. Acknowledge Their Importance
Administrative professionals are the foundation of a well-run office. They manage schedules, coordinate meetings, handle communications, and ensure daily operations run smoothly. Taking time to recognize their impact publicly can go a long way in making them feel valued.
“Admins — whether they’re assistants, office managers, receptionists, or temps — are the backbone of any company. When an executive signs a multimillion-dollar contract, the executive gets acknowledgment of the work they put into the deal,” says Lilit Marcus, Co-Founder of SavetheAssistants.com. “But without the help of assistants who coordinate schedules and make sure phone calls get returned, most of those big deals wouldn’t happen.”
A simple but meaningful way to acknowledge their importance is through company-wide appreciation, whether in meetings, newsletters, or social media shoutouts. By making recognition a regular practice, businesses can strengthen morale and create a more positive work environment.
2. Provide Services To Alleviate Stress
As employees who juggle multiple responsibilities and handle high-pressure tasks with tight deadlines, administrative assistants are no strangers to stress. The constant need to stay organized and responsive can lead to stress and burnout. Offering wellness services can help ease their workload and show appreciation for their hard work.
“Think about the small things everyone has to deal with, but no one wants to: oil changes, groceries, haircuts, doctor’s appointments, and similar things. Bring mobile services to your office (or send them to remote employee locations), and allow employees to get these services done during work hours,” notes Steve Sonnenberg, CEO of Awardco.
Investing in stress-relief initiatives creates a healthier workplace environment. From bringing in mobile services to offering a quiet relaxation space, arranging chair massages, or providing mental health support, these efforts show that employers prioritize employee well-being.
3. Gift Personalized Office Supplies
A practical and thoughtful way to show appreciation for administrative professionals is by gifting personalized office supplies. Custom notebooks, engraved pens, or desk accessories tailored to their style can make their workspace more inviting.
Greg Hannley, Founder and CEO of Soba Mesa, highlights, “Personalized office supplies are a functional and meaningful way to recognize administrative professionals. A customized item can enhance their workspace while reinforcing their sense of belonging within the company.”
Taking the time to choose gifts that align with their personality and needs demonstrates genuine appreciation. Thoughtful details like monogrammed organizers or high-quality planners can elevate their work experience and boost motivation.
4. Offer Professional Development Opportunities
Administrative professionals are constantly adapting to new technologies, tools, and workplace demands. Providing opportunities for skill development (through workshops, online courses, or mentorship programs) can help them grow in their roles and feel more invested in their careers.
“Investing in professional development benefits administrative professionals and strengthens the entire organization. Access to training and career advancement opportunities empowers employees to enhance their skills and take on new challenges,” notes Andy Khubani, CEO of Copper Fit, a company known for its back brace.
Encouraging continued learning can lead to greater job satisfaction and improved efficiency. Plus, supporting the professional growth of your administrative professionals shows long-term appreciation beyond a single day of recognition.
5. Host a Team Appreciation Lunch or Breakfast
A shared meal is a great way to bring people together and show gratitude to administrative professionals. Hosting a team breakfast or lunch in their honor allows colleagues to celebrate their contributions in a relaxed setting. It’s an opportunity to express appreciation while fostering stronger workplace relationships.
“Recognizing administrative professionals through a team meal creates a sense of community,” adds Liza Carballo, VP Commercial of Equelle, a company that specializes in menopause supplements. “Taking the time to celebrate their hard work meaningfully strengthens morale and workplace culture.”
A thoughtfully planned meal can make administrative professionals feel valued without requiring them to step away from their responsibilities for too long. Anything from a catered breakfast to a lunch outing can provide an enjoyable experience, reinforcing their importance to the team.
6. Give a Thoughtful Gift Basket
A well-curated gift basket is a thoughtful way to show appreciation for administrative professionals. Including gourmet snacks, high-quality coffee, or self-care products can make them feel recognized and valued. Personalizing the content to match their interests adds an extra special touch.
Emily Greenfield, Director of Ecommerce at Mac Duggal, a company that specializes in evening gowns, says, “A carefully selected gift basket demonstrates genuine appreciation for administrative professionals. Thoughtful gifts tailored to their preferences can make them feel seen in the workplace.”
Taking the time to put together a meaningful gift basket goes beyond purchasing a generic present. The effort put into selecting each item shows recognition for their hard work, and a personalized approach makes the gesture more memorable and heartfelt.
7. Provide a Surprise Day Off or Extra PTO
Time is one of the most valuable gifts an employer can give. Offering administrative professionals an extra day off or additional PTO allows them to recharge and feel appreciated beyond a simple “thank you.”
“Providing administrative professionals with extra time off is a meaningful way to show you care,” notes Brandon Adcock, Co-Founder and CEO of Nugenix, a company known for its Instaflex Advanced joint supplement. “A surprise paid day off recognizes their dedication while allowing them to rest and return to work feeling refreshed.”
A well-timed break can help prevent burnout and boost morale. Giving administrative professionals a chance to unwind over a long weekend or a flexible day of their choice reinforces their value within the organization.
8. Upgrade Their Office Space
A comfortable and functional workspace can significantly improve productivity and job satisfaction. Upgrading an administrative professional’s office with ergonomic furniture, better lighting, or high-quality tech accessories shows appreciation in a tangible way. Small improvements can enhance their daily experience and efficiency.
“Investing in an improved workspace for administrative professionals enhances their comfort and productivity. Thoughtful upgrades create a more enjoyable work environment and demonstrate that their contributions are appreciated,” adds Brianna Bitton, Co-Founder of O Positiv, a company known for its MENO menopause supplements.
Creating a workspace that supports well-being and efficiency benefits both the individual and the company. With simple upgrades, like a new chair, noise-canceling headphones, or personalized décor, an improved office space can make administrative professionals feel recognized within the company.
9. Write Handwritten Thank-You Notes
In our digital-first world, handwriting a personal message makes the recognition feel more genuine. Thoughtful words acknowledging an administrative professional’s hard work can have a lasting impact.
Justin Soleimani, Co-Founder of Tumble, a company that specializes in washable rugs, says, “A handwritten note carries a personal touch that digital messages often lack. Taking a moment to express gratitude in writing shows administrative professionals that their efforts are seen and valued.”
A note doesn’t have to be long — just heartfelt. Acknowledging specific contributions and expressing gratitude can make administrative professionals feel appreciated in a way that a general thank-you email cannot. This small act can leave a lasting impression.
10. Feature Them in a Company Spotlight
Publicly recognizing administrative professionals through a company newsletter, website, or meeting shoutout highlights their contributions meaningfully. A company spotlight allows the entire organization to celebrate their hard work and dedication.
“Highlighting administrative professionals in a company spotlight reinforces their importance within the organization,” Jonathan Bernhardt, CEO of Hedley and Bennett, a company known for its chef knife, says. “Public recognition fosters a culture of appreciation and reminds others of the value they bring to the workplace.”
Making administrative professionals feel seen on a larger scale boosts morale and motivation. An employee feature, a dedicated social media post, or a team-wide announcement can all spotlight their efforts and ensure their contributions don’t go unnoticed.
11. Create a Fun Experience
Providing administrative professionals with a fun and engaging experience is a great way to show appreciation. Creating a memorable moment allows them to relax and enjoy a break from their daily tasks.
“A well-planned experience allows administrative professionals to unwind and feel appreciated. Both social gatherings and unique activities can be a fun way to celebrate their contributions and strengthen workplace morale,” notes Shaunak Amin, CEO and Co-Founder of SwagMagic, a company that offers print on demand services.
An experience doesn’t have to be elaborate; a small, thoughtful event tailored to their interests can go a long way. Offering an opportunity for enjoyment and recognition helps create a positive work environment.
Recognizing Administrative Professionals Makes a Lasting Impact
Taking the time to celebrate administrative professionals shows them how valued they are. Always keep in mind that appreciation shouldn’t be limited to one day. Continuing to recognize the contributions of the administrative professionals in your organization year-round fosters a positive and supportive work environment.
