For years, the 9 to 5 movie poster has been my wallpaper on my PC. It was released in 1980, and it is still so very relevant today. Great entertainment while also hitting a few home truths pretty hard.

The fabulous Dolly Parton, RIP very, very sadly, is cast as a personal assistant to an inappropriate boss (this is putting it mildly) who she has to threaten to shoot, as his behaviour is so appalling.  Not something that I have found a need for at my company, I should add. So far. 

The film goes on to highlight changes that can improve a workplace for everyone, but typically women.  Luckily, things have moved on in the past 46 years, though a quick glance at social media suggests there is still room for improvement.

In real life, Dolly was a great businesswoman.  An amazing philanthropist.  And a creator of thousands of jobs in her childhood state in the USA and, no doubt, further afield.

What I want to mention today is the role that she played in 9 to 5. The long-suffering PA. Women are often shown in film and on TV shows in this type of role. Not always depicting the role or the women in the best light. But the PA is often the person making sure that things are happening seamlessly in a business.  And often only noticed when something doesn’t happen rather than when it does. 

I always wanted to be a Personal Assistant, and I am proud that it is what I do today and have done for many years now.  I like it and I try to do my best to get the job done. 

Because of the opportunities this and previous roles have given me, I can try to be a voice for the administrator, for the backstage staff. And quite often for women. And to support them. Watching women achieve - while also being positive, caring and empathetic is very important. To achieve to the best of their ability while being true to themselves. It is important.

So, thanks, Dolly.  For representing Women.  All Women. Hard-working women. Women who lift all others. Let’s continue to tumble out of bed, pour a cup of ambition and be proud of what you are achieving.