Not many of us have the resources, or luck, to reach celebrity status in our lifetime but becoming a celebrity personal assistant might be the next best thing. Every celebrity needs help in staying organized, on schedule, and up to date on their latest projects. A celebrity personal assistant is part manager, part Executive Assistant; they can be in charge of schedules, handling calls, and helping the star stay organized. IN addition to travel perks and plenty of insights into media and fashion industries, the celebrity personal assistant has a few advantages over the standard business person’s personal assistant. How do free samples and goodies from big brands , VIP status at clubs, top picks for restaurants and grand openings, and plenty of paparazzi attention sound? If this sounds like a suitable lifestyle for you, you might consider becoming a celebrity personal assistant. Here’s a look at what it takes.
First Steps: Learn the Job Description
You’ll need to start with at least a Marketing background or business-related major. Most celebrities need a personal assistant who can see the bigger but also pay attention to detail. You’ll need to learn how to handle dozens of projects at once, keep up with the media, and learn the industry inside out. A PR background is ideal, since you’ll be in charge of setting up appointments, managing bookings, and juggling calendars of the whole team. Think of an Executive Assistant with one central purpose; ensure smooth operations 24/7. A day’s work can be as simple as arranging lunch or as complicated as meeting with an entertainment executive on behalf of the celebrity. Learning to think on your feet will help.
When inquiring about the position, be sure to ask questions and really find out what your position will entail. Even if it’s nothing more than a traveling secretary, outlining exactly what you’ll be responsible for will help you understand expectations and help you grow within your position from the start. Keep in mind the entertainment industry is a fickle business; if you’re not the one for the job, somebody else will be right on your heels.
The Job Interview and Application Process
You can find jobs online through portal sites such as 4entertainmentjobs, Jobs.net , and even Craigslist in L.A., New York, and Miami. When you’ve found a tentative position, expect to be contacted from either the celebrity’s current assistant, a representative from their managing team, or if you’re lucky, the celebrity themselves. First impressions mean everything; after submitting your application, be sure to answer every phone call professionally and appropriately. This moment can be a pivotal point in your interview process, without you even realizing it.
Your in-person job interview will also be a nerve-wracking experience; use the adrenaline to your favor and don’t rush through it. Remember, calm under pressure will be your motto day in and day out. Show that you know what it takes and don’t be afraid to be confient. Just don’t overdo it; no gushing about being the ‘biggest fan’ or ‘I’ve always wanted to do this!’ necessary; a cool, professional demeanor will help you!
Knowing the Job: Efficiency is Everything
In the fast-paced entertainment industry, being able to solve problems on the spot will get you places. If you can finish a task right now, do it; hesitation and over-thinking a situation may lead to poor performance, and you have to be confident in your follow through to get the job done. You’ll make mistakes, but you have to take some risks to get ahead. Efficiency and a commitment to excellence will help you set the standards; whether you’re working with a high-profile business exec or coordinating an appearance at a show, be sure to maintain a professional attitude and set your sights on finishing the project ASAP.
At the Job: Become an Expert at Menial Tasks
The majority of your projects will be menial and will involve basic administration and organization. From stuffing envelopes for the latest campaign, to checking and responding to fan e-mail, the task at hand can be less than glamorous. You need to learn to take it as part of your position; there’s no other job out there that will pay their administrative team to travel for free and indulge in top choice freebies along the way. You can find something positive in even the simplest projects; just keep a level head and you’ll be well on your way.
Whether you’re interested in becoming a protégé of your favorite star, or just want to get experience in public relations for a high-profile celebrity, it’s important that you understand the nature of the work before the interview. Knowing what to expect will as a celebrity personal assistant will help you organize your responsibilities, and most importantly, prioritize.
The position requires an exceptional amount of patience, excellent judgment, and strong communication skills. If you’re lacking in any of these areas, it’s unlikely that you’ll enjoy the success of the superstar at hand; practice well before the interview and prepare yourself for a lifestyle like no other!
