FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What is the Association of Administrative Assistants?
- How does the Association of Administrative Assistants differ from other administrative associations?
- Although I am not presently employed, can I join the Association based on my experience and previous education?
- Is this a national organization? How many Branches? Where are they located?
- Can I attend a branch meeting without becoming a member?
- Why should I join the Association? What can the Association do for me?
- What is the Qualified Administrative Assistant Certificate Program?
- Must I enroll in the Q.A.A. Program to become a member of the Association?
- Do employers recognize the Association of Administrative Assistants and the Q.A.A. designation?
- Why should I become a member of the Association of Administrative Assistants? What are the benefits?
- How do I become a member?
What is the Association of Administrative Assistants?
The Association of Administrative Assistants is a chartered, non-profit Canadian organization founded in April 1951. The Association is proactive in encouraging its members to further their education and enhance their career opportunity. The Association's motto is: "Professionalism through Education".How does the Association of Administrative Assistants differ from other administrative associations?
Our goals and aims are similar, but the main difference is that we are wholly Canadian and our Qualified Administrative Assistant certificate program is based on Canadian content and offered exclusively at Canadian post-secondary institutions.Although I am not presently employed, can I join the Association based on my experience and previous education?
Yes. The Association encourages networking, sharing of ideas, knowledge and experience.Is this a national organization? How many Branches? Where are they located?
The Association is a Canadian organization. Currently, there are six branches, namely Barrie/Simcoe County, Calgary, Edmonton, Greater|Grand Sudbury, Hamilton and Toronto. Members not in close proximity to these branches, can join the Association as Members At Large.Can I attend a branch meeting without becoming a member?
Yes. Guests are welcome to attend branch meetings, but are encouraged to become members after attending two or three meetings.Why should I join the Association? What can the Association do for me?
The Association will provide you with:- support and friendship
- a network of contacts
- a place to share experiences
- an opportunity to use your creativity
- an occasion to develop your leadership skills
- an open door to life-long learning
What is the Qualified Administrative Assistant Certificate Program?
The Q.A.A. program is sponsored by the Association and can be completed as a part-time student through university lectures, online and/or correspondence courses and consists of four compulsory courses and three elective courses. The program provides a solid background in general business administration. The program is offered at eighteen post-secondary institutions across Canada.Must I enroll in the Q.A.A. Program to become a member of the Association?
No. You do not need to enroll in the Q.A.A. program to be a member of the Association, although the Association does encourage and support continuing development of administrative skills, underlying knowledge and professional growth through the completion of the Q.A.A. program. However, you MUST become a member of the Association before enrolling in the Q.A.A. Program.Do employers recognize the Association of Administrative Assistants and the Q.A.A. designation?
Yes. Employers recognize the value of hiring an employee with a professional designation. They also recognize individuals who have worked to complete and personal goal and fully support those who constantly upgrade their skills.Why should I become a member of the Association of Administrative Assistants? What are the benefits?
The extensive benefits of belonging to the Association can be found under Become a Member - Benefits of Membership . Of great value are the testimonials that have been submitted by AAA members. Members also receive a subscription to Your Workplace magazine as part of their membership benefits.How do I become a member?
Complete the membership application form and mail it, together with your resume, to one of our branches or to the National Vice-President as indicated on the application form.
CURRENT NEWS
Barrie/Simcoe County Branch is excited to issue an invitation to journey to the Village at Blue Mountain/Collingwood for our June 2010 National Meeting Events and Professional Development Seminar. All members are welcome to attend the National Board Meeting on June 3rd, to get a fascinating view of how the National Board conducts Association business on behalf of members from across Canada. On June 4th, members and guests won't want to miss a dynamic duo of professional speakers who will lead interactive workshops of exciting value. On Saturday, June 5th, the Association's Annual General Meeting will take place in the morning, followed by the Qualified Administrative Assistant luncheon and graduation. See you at Blue!