A day in the life…
…of an Office Manager
Sethany Roberts
Where is your hometown?
I was born in Taunton, MA and lived in Rochester, NY and Pittsfield, MA until moving to Peaks Island, ME in 1970. Growing up on a small island in Casco Bay was fun and instilled a life long love of the ocean.
What did you study in school?
I was a Business Administration major in college and graduated from the University of Southern in Maine with a Bachelor’s degree.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your career at Diversified:
I started working at Diversified in 1995 as a part time data entry clerk. Once my sons were in school all day, I went to full time status. I quickly learned a lot about the trade show industry while entering data from catalogs, business cards and show surveys. I accepted the Office Manager position in 2005 and have been leading the Office Support Services team since then.
Is there such thing as a typical day for you as an Office Manager? What’s it really like?
In the Office Support Services department there isn’t a “typical day”. Our days are a combination of scheduled tasks such as answering phone calls, sorting and processing mail, ordering office supplies and stocking kitchen supplies. We also resolve staff requests pertaining to building issues such as temperature fluctuations, replacing toner cartridges, and changing light bulbs. And there is usually a last-minute request that may involve the entire team to complete because of a deadline. The days fly by! But there’s time to catch up and socialize a bit with the team and staff throughout the day.
What is the best thing about working at Diversified?
Working for a family owned company that supports their employees and provides many opportunities for personal and professional growth is one of the best things about working at Diversified.
What is the best part of your job as an Office Manager?
The best part of my job is the daily interactions with my co-workers and being appreciated! My efforts are noticed and valued. Recently, I received a STAR award ($500 bonus and company recognition) for implementing and managing our green initiatives such as composting, recycling and participating in a local farm share. I also enjoy working in a small supportive department to resolve issues as a team.
What is the most challenging aspect of your role?
The most challenging aspect in my position as Office Manager is prioritizing and accommodating multiple requests to find creative solutions while still meeting deadlines.
Do you have opportunities to engage in any social events or activities throughout your day?
My team and I like to celebrate our hard work and accomplishments by engaging in off-site activities like a boat ride to Peaks Island for lunch on a Summer day. We also enjoy the many social activities the company provides to engage with fellow co-workers such as volunteer opportunities, exercise classes and company celebrations.
What are your hobbies/interests outside of work?
I enjoy reading, spending time with my young grandchildren and outdoor activities such as gardening, going to the beach, kayaking and snowshoeing.
Fun Fact – What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I recently used my vacation time to complete the Master Gardener course thru the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and a Landscape Design course.
What has been the highlight of your career so far?
My professional career highlight at Diversified was receiving the “Chairperson’s 7 C’s” award in 2015. I was proud to be a recipient of this award chosen by my co-workers in recognition of living by the DC values.
My personal career highlight at Diversified was the decision to apply for the Office Manager position. I was encouraged to apply for the position but at the same time unsure of my abilities to manage a team and department. I’m glad I choose to accept the position as it has presented me with many new opportunities along the way.
What advice would you give to a new employee of Diversified Communications?
Get involved with your co-workers whether that is exercising together, attending a lunch and learn session, or joining the employee activity committee. Work hard, be supportive and be willing to embrace new experiences.
