International Association Of Administrative ProfessionalsEdit
The International Association Of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) is a global professional organization that supports individuals working in administrative roles. Its member base includes administrative professionals such as administrative assistants, executive assistants, office managers, and other staff responsible for information management, scheduling, communications, and general office operations. The IAAP provides education, credentialing, networking opportunities, and resources aimed at improving performance, standards, and career development within office environments.
Across industries and jurisdictions, the IAAP acts as a central hub for best practices in administrative work. It seeks to raise the profile of administrative professionals, promote professional development, and establish benchmarks for skills and conduct in the office. To accomplish this, the association offers training programs, webinars, conferences, and certifications, and it maintains points of connection for members through chapters and partnerships with employers and other professional bodies. Executive assistant Office manager Administrative professional are common terms connected to the work the IAAP supports, and the organization positions itself as a steward of quality in everyday office operations.
History
The IAAP traces its origins to mid-20th-century efforts to organize and professionalize office work. What began as informal networks of secretaries and administrative workers broadened over decades into a formal international association. The organization adopted its current name and international orientation as administrative work grew more complex and technology-enabled, and as the demand for standardized credentials and continuing education increased. By integrating local chapters and international partnerships, the IAAP expanded its reach beyond its North American roots to include members in Europe, the Asia-Pacific region, and other areas where administrative work plays a central role in business operations. Secretary Professional association
Membership, structure, and governance
Membership in the IAAP includes individuals who perform administrative duties as well as organizations that support or employ administrative professionals. The association is governed by a board and a structure of volunteer leaders who oversee programs, credentialing, and member services. Local chapters provide in-person events, mentorship, and networking opportunities, while international resources offer online training, publications, and guidance on career advancement. The IAAP emphasizes professional standards, ethical conduct, and continuous learning as core elements of its mission. Professional association Networking Executive assistant
Programs and credentials
A central feature of the IAAP is its credentialing framework. The Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential is widely recognized within the field as a measure of core competencies in areas such as organization, communication, project handling, and information management. The CAP credential, along with other IAAP resources, serves as a signal to employers of a candidate's commitment to professional development and skill mastery. In addition to certification, the IAAP offers continuing education credits, skill-building courses, and access to research, best practices, and career guidance. Certified Administrative Professional Certification Administrative professional
Technology, governance, and workplace evolution are reflected in the association’s offerings. As office environments adopt new tools—ranging from advanced scheduling systems to AI-assisted workflows—the IAAP provides guidance on how administrators can adapt, maintain data integrity, and safeguard security while improving efficiency. The organization also addresses management practices, ethical considerations, and the evolving roles of administrative staff in supporting executives and organizational objectives. Artificial intelligence Office automation Administrative professional
Controversies and debates
As with many professional associations, debates about credentialing, access, and the value of formal certification are part of the IAAP landscape. Supporters argue that credentials like the CAP provide a measurable standard, improve career prospects, and help employers identify qualified professionals. Critics sometimes contend that credentialing can create barriers to entry, increase costs for workers, and contribute to credentialism that may not fully capture on-the-job performance. Proponents counter that well-designed certifications reflect demonstrated competence and accountability, and that ongoing education helps workers stay current in a rapidly changing office environment. The IAAP’s stance in these debates generally emphasizes the balance between establishing recognized standards and ensuring broad access to education and advancement opportunities. Certification Professional association
Beyond credentialing, discussions about workplace policy, diversity of backgrounds within administrative roles, and the evolving scope of work—especially as automation grows—shape how the IAAP approaches advocacy and program design. The organization often frames its activities around practical improvements to daily office work, professional development, and the long-term career prospects of administrative professionals. Office management Administrative professional