A savvy assistant
needs to be on top of their game
Once upon a time, it was enough to manage diaries, do a bit of bookkeeping and write some simple reports. But not any longer.
Today’s clients and executives want you to put together presentations, manage social media posts, do data analysis, schedule meetings, research and write blogs, and handle online meetings too. And be their trusted advisor too.
That’s why your skill level determines your value to your clients or executives and ultimately, what you can earn.
LEARN MORE, EARN MORE
There are plenty of opportunities out there for Savvy Assistants. Whether you’re employed, working for yourself, or thinking of working for yourself, having up-to-the-minute Microsoft 365 skills will support you.
Clients and executives rely on professional assistants who solve their problems, show creativity, and deliver an excellent service. On time. Every time.
I know from talking to hundreds of assistants, that it’s really important to you to give your clients and executives excellent support.
Microsoft 365 is one of the tools you need to do that.
About Shelley Fishel
The MS Office Maestro
I didn’t get the education I wanted when I was younger. By the time I was 17, I had to leave school to take over running my father’s business. I’ve always had a head for organizing. Give me a list and I’m happy. Done √ Next!
Because I didn’t finish my education, it was logical that I would stay at home when I got married and had children. And I loved so much of it. My family is at the heart of my life, and I love it when people feel comfortable and cared for. I’ve even become a bit famous for my Friday Shabbat baking photos (join me on Instagram for those).
But even back then I knew I could do much more (I’d already run one company and done admin for another) and I wanted to earn my own money too.
The kids grew and I moved back into the workforce over 20 years ago, eventually finding a wonderful training company where I learned my trade.
Being fiercely independent, my next step was starting my own company. I discovered I loved working with PAs and EAs. I get how they think and what they do. They have lots of different responsibilities and contacts; they’re the lynchpin, sorting everything and everybody out. And above all, their goal is helping their manager perform at their best.
I can relate to that, because I want nothing more than to help YOU perform at your best.
Over the years I’ve realized that I love to break down complex activities into simple steps that I can explain in a step-by-step practical way. #loveroflists
Expert status?
I never call myself a Microsoft expert. I just help you get things done quicker, easier, and more elegantly (and without drowning in Google first).
I can’t put it better than what a long-term client said about me recently: “Shelley’s like the angel on my shoulder”. I love that!
Experience
I’ve been training people since the 90’s and went freelance in 2002. In 2007 I set up my own company, the IT Training Surgery, which I grew and eventually sold.
The focus of my work became helping Assistants, and I started doing online training.
Which is how I am where I am today. Helping assistants with Microsoft Office with live and online training, speaking and books.
My mission is to help thousands of Assistants get more done in less time using Microsoft 365 applications. I know how much your clients and executives rely on you. And I want to be the angel on your shoulder helping you do just that.
QUALIFIED AND CERTIFIED
I hate to see Assistants paying for shoddy trainings.
You can be sure my trainings are practical, step by step and up to date.
But you don’t just have to take my word for it.
My training is assessed regularly as a Fellow of the Learning & Performance Institute. It has approved me as a Certified Online Learning Facilitator (COLF) as well as a Certified Designer of Online Learning (CDOL).
“A great course with lots of examples and step by step instructions. I can now confidently create infographics and as a bonus, I learnt a lot of new PowerPoint functionality that will enhance all my PowerPoint work and save me so much time.”
Jessica Bailey – Integral Resource
EVERY CURSOR MOVE. EVERY CLICK
Get a step-by-step guide to essential tasks in each application. See what’s on my screen as I talk you through it. So, there’s no misunderstanding what you’ve heard.
Easy-paced, clear trainings with fun, make these trainings simple to follow. Get a flavour of my style here: How to Use Microsoft Teams.
“I really enjoyed the session with Shelley, I will definitely be using all of the tips and techniques shared. Shelley has a lovely style of teaching, I could listen and learn from her all day!”
Linda Legget – McKesson
Speaker
Get practical, up-to-date know-how and time-saving tips from The Microsoft Office Maestro. All wrapped up with fun.
Whether it’s a masterclass, workshop, or summit, your audience should be able to use what they learn straightaway.
Previous events include: The PA Show, the Practically Perfect PA online summit, ESTech for Executive Support Magazine and many other organisations and summits.
Talks cover any of the core Microsoft Office applications – Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Teams.
“The session was a great way of learning some hints and tricks that can instantly save you time on a daily basis. When you don’t always have anough time to learn and study excel, it’s great to get some easy and fast ways of using the programme to help you work more efficiently.”
Sara Fearnley
VIRTUALLY AMAZING PODCAST
This popular podcast series is still being listened to with over 9500 downloads.
Each week I share tips and interview guest experts, with my co-host Jo Brianti. We talk about topics that helps VA’s build their skills and their business.
Topics include: setting up a VA business, content writing, websites, coaching and training, tech security, GDPR, LinkedIn, blogging, copywriting, and productivity.
Author, Blogger and Writer
I’ve spent a lot of time writing about Microsoft applications. In fact, 1 million of my books have been sold on this subject.
You can find my range of ‘how to’ books (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and more) here.
I also wrote a book about using Microsoft Excel to grow your business. It tells the story of a coffee shop owner called Matt and how he uses these applications to grow his business. It’s called Business Barista – Essential Excel Skills to Streamline your Business’. Get it here.
MICROSOFT MAESTRO, MUM, AND MORE
As well as being an entrepreneur, trainer, author, and podcaster, I’m also a wife, mother, and grandmother. Family is at the very heart of my life and I’m so grateful for them all.
I know what it’s like to juggle work and kids and to always feel like you don’t have enough time, energy, or patience to get everything done. That’s really the driving force for the solutions I’ve created for you.
Getting more done in less time, means your clients and executives are happy. But just as importantly, it gives you more me-time (you might even get to drink that cup of tea while it’s hot!).