Preparing for the National PA Awards Interview Day

The Awards really do matter. They shine a light on the PA and business support community in a way that is so critical. I personally feel that the narrative around the role is out of date, and we all have a responsibility to educate peers, friends, and colleagues about the value and impact of what we do.

At eavolve, Lily Shippen’s sister company, one of the things often discussed is mastering the art of articulation. Too often, business support professionals say, “they don’t understand what I do or value what I do.”

The belief at eavolve is that you can influence that, by learning to tell your story and owning the impact you’ve made. These Awards play an important role in helping to shift that narrative.

This year marks an exciting shift. The Manchester PA Awards has grown into the National PA Awards, which means finalists are being celebrated from right across the UK. It’s another way of showcasing the incredible breadth of talent within the profession, and I think that’s fantastic.

I judged at the Manchester PA Awards back in 2018 and 2019 when Lily Shippen sponsored them, and I remember the atmosphere clearly. There was a buzz in the room. Yes, nerves, but also such excitement and support.

What struck me most was that the people who stood out weren’t the ones with slick, over-rehearsed answers. They were the ones who walked in with confidence, even if they admitted they were nervous. You could see the pride they took in their role, the passion for what they did, and it radiated from them.

That’s why confidence matters so much, and it isn’t always about just feeling confident. Sometimes it’s about making yourself believe it, even when the nerves are there. It’s the same in job interviews: the people who impress aren’t those with the most polished script, but those who let their story, energy, and personality come through.

This year, eavolve is sponsoring the National PA Awards, and Emily Partridge, Director of eavolve, will also be joining the judging panel. Emily’s background as both an EA and an EA Manager gives her a unique perspective, and I know she’s as excited to celebrate the incredible talent across the PA community and meet those shortlisted.

So, what might help you bring your best self on interview day?

• Be yourself. The judges don’t want a perfect version of you. They want the real you. Share your journey honestly, and don’t be afraid to let your personality show.
• Tell your story. If you say you’re resilient or organised, give the judges a real example. Stories are what people remember.
• Keep it focused. Nerves make us want to over-explain. Take a breath, give one strong example, and stop there.
• Own your passion. If you love your role, let it shine through and explain why you love it.
• Turn nerves into something positive. Nerves are a sign you care. Reframe them as excitement and use the energy.
• Arrive early. The PA community is incredibly supportive. Being there a little early helps you settle, chat with others, and soak in the atmosphere. I promise that it will also ease the nerves too.
• Be proud. You’ve already achieved something amazing by being shortlisted. You deserve to be there, so back yourself.
• Practise out loud. A tip I often give to coaching clients is to record themselves answering questions on WhatsApp or voice memos. Listening back helps refine your answers and builds belief in yourself.

Above all, remember that the interview isn’t about perfection. It’s about celebrating you, what you’ve achieved, and the impact you’ve had in your role. Take a breath, enjoy the moment, and remember that you have already earned your place at that table.

Good luck to everyone taking part this year. Emily can’t wait to meet you and hear your stories.