A Stenographer taking dictation 1960s
Secretaries took dictation using a form of speedwriting. Gregg shorthand was the most popular. It uses strokes to represent phonetic sounds through a system of elliptical, cursive-like lines.
The job of secretary was a sexist occupation. The pay was low and secretaries were expected to be attractive eye-candy for the boss and double as a “personal servant,” handling personal errands.
However, the feminist movements of the 1970s and 1980s actively fought against these systemic biases. By the late 1980s women were allowed in management positions. The sexist title of "secretary" was replaced with "administrative assistant" or "executive assistant" to command better professional respect and secretaries had the right to refuse to perform non-work-related tasks.
Reflecting on the evolution of secretarial roles from the 1960s onwards reveals a fascinating journey of both technical skill and social change. Gregg shorthand, a prevalent method during that era, allowed secretaries to efficiently transcribe speech through a unique system of elliptical, cursive strokes representing phonetic sounds — a skill that required extensive training and sharp listening abilities. Many secretaries took pride in mastering this technique, which was crucial for producing accurate documents before the advent of modern recording and transcription technologies. Beyond the technical aspect, the workplace environment for secretaries in the 1960s was challenging. Secretarial work was not only undervalued monetarily but also heavily influenced by gender stereotypes. Secretaries were often seen as decorative and subservient employees, tasked with both professional duties and personal errands for their bosses, which blurred professional boundaries and reinforced systemic sexism. This created a paradox where women were essential for office operations yet faced significant discrimination. The feminist movements of the 1970s and 1980s played a pivotal role in transforming the workplace for secretaries. Advocacy led to increased respect for their professional skills and opportunities for career advancement. Titles like "administrative assistant" and "executive assistant" replaced "secretary," signaling a shift toward recognizing the complexity and importance of their roles. Additionally, these changes empowered women to set clearer professional limits, refusing non-work-related tasks without penalty. From personal experience, embracing these changes was liberating. Transitioning from shorthand dictation to digital tools felt like stepping into a new era — one where skill and professionalism were finally acknowledged beyond outdated stereotypes. This shift also inspired many women to pursue further leadership roles, a testament to how societal attitudes can evolve and improve workplace equality. Understanding this history enriches appreciation for the progress made and the skills honed by those early stenographers and secretaries who paved the way.
