How Mid-Level Admins Can Drive Organizational Success

Mid-level administrative professionals are the steady hand behind strong teams. They manage the details and drive cross-department initiatives, shaping everything from project timelines to company culture. 

Despite their wide-reaching impact, many mid-level admins remain under-recognized and under-resourced. Access to leadership training and professional development funding isn’t always consistent and that gap can slow career growth, even when the leadership potential is already there.

Early findings from ASAP’s 2025 State of the Profession Report show that mid-level admins play a growing role in how organizations lead and operate. As more organizations recognize the strategic value of the administrative role, now is the time to step forward. Admins who build key leadership skills,  advocate for growth, and invest in themselves will be the ones shaping the future of the profession and getting recognized for it.

The Role of Mid-Level Admins: Leading From the Middle

Administrative professionals don’t need a leadership title to be leaders. Executive assistants and other mid-level admins contribute to high-level strategy while keeping daily operations on track. Their influence extends across departments, making them key players in team leadership and performance management.

For example, an executive assistant in higher education may coordinate projects across academic departments, align priorities with institutional goals, and strengthen communication between faculty and administrators. These responsibilities demonstrate leadership, even without a formal leadership title.

How Mid-Level Admins Demonstrate Leadership

• Strategic Partnership: Aligning support with executive priorities and anticipating challenges before they arise

• Process Management: Improving workflows, eliminating inefficiencies, and ensuring teams operate smoothly

• Cross-Team Collaboration: Bringing together departments, facilitating communication, and driving initiatives forward

Essential Leadership Skills for Career Growth

Admins who introduce better scheduling systems, refine communication processes, or streamline project workflows show initiative and problem-solving, key traits of workplace leaders. These abilities enhance daily operations, build credibility, and open doors for career advancement.

Skills That Strengthen Decision-Making and Problem-Solving

• Critical Thinking: Analyzing problems from multiple angles, identifying root causes, and determining the most effective course of action

• Data Analysis: Using metrics, feedback, and historical insights to make informed choices that improve processes

• Adaptability: Adjusting strategies in response to shifting priorities, unexpected challenges, or organizational changes

• Communication and Persuasion: Presenting solutions clearly, influencing stakeholders, and gaining buy-in for new initiatives

Advocating for Professional Development

Despite the value of leadership training, many mid-level admins face limited access to professional development funding and decision-making power over their growth. Those further in their careers tend to receive more external training and certifications, reinforcing the need to advocate for development early on.

• Demonstrate ROI: Connect leadership training to improved efficiency, team performance, and executive support

• Seek External Opportunities: Online courses, industry events, and networking groups offer leadership development beyond internal programs

• Leverage Internal Training: Mentorship, cross-functional projects, and senior leadership collaboration provide hands-on leadership experience

Expanding Your Influence: Learn From Fellow Admins

Leadership growth doesn’t happen in isolation. Events like EA Ignite, ASAP’s conference designed for higher-level executive admins, offer a space to engage with peers who have successfully navigated leadership challenges and career advancement.

EA Ignite provides attendees with access to leadership training, expert-led workshops, and strategies to advocate for professional development. Learning from experienced professionals and networking with other admins strengthens leadership abilities and opens doors for career progression.

Learn More and Register Today!