Twice a week we publish problems that will feature in a forthcoming Dear Jeremy advice column in the Saturday Guardian so that readers can offer their own advice and suggestions. We then print the best of your comments alongside Jeremy’s own insights. Here is the latest dilemma – what are your thoughts?
I am 28 and have been working as an admin assistant for the past two years. My role is essentially that of a PA: I organise diaries and manage correspondence for senior executives in my company.
I took the role because I admire the organisation and I would like to progress to a more senior role. My interest is in policy and public advocacy and my organisation engages in this work.
I have a PhD and have held research fellowship roles at several universities.
I’m beginning to feel that I’ve stalled in my career, though. I recently applied for a more senior role and was passed over because I lacked the relevant experience.
I worry that in my current role I will not gain the skills or experience that I need to progress in the direction I would like. I’m concerned that if I stay in this role much longer I will be stuck on a career track that will only make me eligible to apply for more administrative roles.
Do you need advice on a work issue? For Jeremy’s and readers’ help, send a brief email to dear.jeremy@theguardian.com. Please note that he is unable to answer questions of a legal nature or to reply personally.
