Tamara (TJ) shares how she turned recognition into real-world impact as AIOP’s Hunter Region Division President. From earning influence without authority to designing a career that works for family life, TJ unpacks the systems, boundaries and mindset that keep momentum going - especially when work gets busy. We also chat about the new AIOP Mentor Program (launching 2026), practical professional development strategies, and the future-ready skills every admin should practise now.
In this episode, you’ll learn
- Influence without authority: Why rapport is step one in any pipeline, and how to protect yourself when politics show up.
- Career compounding: The early decision to build genuine relationships and how it paid off years later.
- Making impact visible: Showing trust, respect and honesty to decision-makers
- Career design for parents: Boundaries, honest comms, and choosing roles that fit life.
- Peak-period playbook: Daily priorities, focus blocks, team check-ins, pre-built templates and fast wins.
- Negotiating flexibility: Come with a solution, a coverage plan and agreed guardrails.
- Future skills (2026): Adaptive problem-solving and weekly practice to build continuous improvement muscle.
- AIOP Mentor Program (2026): Closing the gap between capability and progression with structured support.
- After the award: Handling imposter thoughts, using recognition as permission to step up, and leading through the “messy middle.”
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What is The Admin Avenues Podcast?
Welcome to The Admin Avenues Podcast!
In each episode, I’ll be chatting with inspiring Australian admin professionals, expert advisors, and a few surprise guests you won’t want to miss.
No matter where your admin career has taken you, this is your space to learn, grow, and connect with the people shaping the future of our profession.
Expect real stories, practical insights, and expert advice to help you thrive, whether you're just starting out or leading at the top.
We’re also here to celebrate the Australian admin community, because admins are at the heart of every successful business.
Let’s shape the future of admin in Australia, one conversation at a time.
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