If you're serious in wanting to be a secretary, you need good keyboard skills, and the old shorthand wouldn't go amiss (yes - it's still used!). A PA is sometimes no more than a general dogsbody for the boss, so always reply to job vacancies which state what they're looking for. It helps to have a well-written CV, and to be well presented and spoken when going for an interview. You'll need to be unflappable, friendly and someone who knows how to be diplomatic. Good luck!