The Importance of Building Community, Featuring the ASAP Circle’s Community Managers

In today’s fast-paced professional world, it can be easy to feel disconnected. For administrative professionals, whose roles often demand high levels of independence, the need for a supportive and understanding community is more important than ever. Having a place to share challenges, celebrate successes, and exchange insights can make all the difference in building a meaningful and fulfilling career.

That’s where the ASAP Circle comes in. This thriving online community of almost 10k individuals is free and designed exclusively for administrative professionals, offering a space to connect, learn, and grow alongside peers. Whether you’re looking for advice on navigating a complex project, tips to enhance your skills, or simply a moment of camaraderie, the ASAP Circle is the go-to resource for admins who value connection.

But what makes the ASAP Circle so impactful? It’s not just the platform itself but the people who nurture and grow it. Deanna Danger and Nakia Whittaker, the ASAP Circle’s dedicated Community Managers for 2025, play a pivotal role in fostering an environment where admins feel heard, supported, and empowered. In this blog, we sit down with Deanna and Nakia to learn more about their insights into the power of community and why building connections is essential for professional success.

Interview with Deanna and Nakia

Q: What drew you to the role of Community Manager for the ASAP Circle?

Deanna: "I saw the Community Manager role as a chance to grow my leadership skills while contributing to something meaningful. I believe in the power of community, and I wanted to be part of building a platform that elevates our profession and gives admins a space to grow, connect, and feel valued."

Nakia: "After attending events like APC and EA Ignite as an ASAP Advisory Board member, I realized I wanted to have more impact than just interacting with this community once or twice a year. The connections I witnessed there were powerful, and I was drawn to the opportunity to help foster those same meaningful experiences year-round within the ASAP Circle."

Q: Why do you think the ASAP Circle is such a valuable resource for administrative professionals?

Deanna: "The Circle is helping to rewrite the story around what it means to be an administrative professional. By showing up, sharing knowledge, and supporting one another, we’re actively shifting how our roles are perceived—not just within our companies, but across the entire industry."

Nakia: "The Circle brings together like-minded professionals and offers resources you simply can’t find anywhere else. It’s a space where you feel seen, heard, and valued, and that sense of belonging makes a real difference in how admins show up in their work."

Q: What’s one of your favorite moments or interactions you’ve had in the ASAP Circle?

Deanna: "Some of my favorite moments are when someone brings a real challenge to the group and instantly gets a wave of thoughtful, supportive responses. It’s a powerful reminder of how strong this community is and how admins show up for other admins. And honestly, anytime I get to see someone’s pet on a call, it’s a win!"

Nakia: "Just last week, I met a new Coffee Break attendee who had been a member of the Circle for a year but hadn’t yet joined a live get-together. She wasn’t sure if she had the time or could demonstrate the ROI of attending. Seeing her finally connect with others and feel welcomed reminded me why these spaces matter so much."

Q: What excites you most about where the admin profession is heading, and how do you see community fitting into that?

Deanna: "The ASAP Circle has shown me that our profession is full of smart, capable, and driven individuals who want more. Being part of a community hungry for growth is truly motivating. It shows we’re not just in an industry, but a community pushing it forward."

Nakia: "I believe we’re entering a new era where adaptability, collaboration, and diversity will define the admin profession. I always encourage members to share the Circle with their networks so we can continue growing and gaining visibility. Community isn’t just an add-on—it’s how we elevate the profession and ensure it gets the recognition it deserves."

Connection Is Key

As Deanna and Nakia have shared, building community isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a vital component of thriving as an administrative professional. The ASAP Circle provides a unique space to form connections, gain insights, and find encouragement when it’s needed most. Whether you’re a seasoned admin or just starting your journey, our online forum is here to support you every step of the way.

Are you ready to become part of something bigger? Join the ASAP Circle today and experience the power of community for yourself.

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