The answer to that question is simple: to celebrate the heroes behind the scenes! Because Secretary's Day is all about the management assistant, the executive secretary, the administrative employee, and everyone else who can call themselves a secretary, in other words: the invisible backbone of every company.
How did Secretary's Day originate?
It all began in 1950s America. The original intention of Secretary's Day was to encourage more people to pursue a career as a secretary. The initiative for this was taken by the president of the National Secretaries Association and the director of a dictation machine supplier. Thus, in 1952, the first Secretary's Day was born in the United States. Thanks to a collaboration between Secretaresse Magazine, Schoevers, an employment agency, and the flower industry, we in the Netherlands have also been celebrating Secretary's Day since 1989.
When is Secretary's Day 2026?
In the Netherlands, Secretary's Day is traditionally celebrated on the third Thursday of April. This year, that falls on Thursday, April 16, so make sure to mark this date in your calendar and be ready to show your appreciation to your rock! This day is the perfect opportunity to thank her for her hard work and dedication.
When is Employee Appreciation Day?
A few years ago, the idea arose in various countries to broaden the scope of Secretary's Day. After all, there are more employees who are indispensable for the functioning of your company or organization. In America, Secretary's Day is now called 'Administrative Support Day', and in the Netherlands, we also celebrate 'Employee Appreciation Day' on the third Thursday of April.
How do you thank employees?
Now for the fun part: how do you thank all those wonderful employees for their hard work? Of course, the possibilities are endless. From a sweet handwritten card to a festive lunch or even a spectacular staff party; there are countless ways to show your appreciation. Often, a gift is given. This is often a bouquet of flowers. That is, of course, not very original, and certainly not very sustainable. Therefore, choose a different gift for once. Are you looking for more ideas? In our blog 'Top 5 gifts for Secretary's Day' you will find the most original and sustainable gifts! Whatever gift you choose: the most important thing is that it is sincere!
And a final tip: set a reminder in your agenda for the first week of April, so you don't forget to arrange a nice token of appreciation for your management assistant, executive secretary, or administrative supporter!