What does an administrative assistant do?
Administrative assistants ensure that the everyday running of a business goes smoothly, acting as the first point of contact for enquiries and visitors, prioritising workflow, managing incoming and outgoing mail and composing reports, correspondence and office memos. A high level of organisation, coupled with a can-do attitude and the ability to multitask will take you a long way in an administrative assistant role.
Tasks:
- Compose letters, reports and office memos
- Archive and manage important documents
- Sort and distribute incoming mail
- Attend to the needs of customers, visitors, and staff
- Perform banking and payroll functions
What skills do I need to be an administrative assistant?
Excellent people skills are a must for this job as administrative assistants often work in large, multinational companies and may come into contact with demanding clients and stakeholders. Because of this, you’ll need to be an expert in workplace organisation and communications. You need to be focused and methodical in your work with an attention to detail in everything you do.
- Aptitude for team work
- Neat personal appearance
- Excellent oral communication skills
- Excellent written communication skills
- Ability to work methodically, neatly, and accurately
Specialisations
The job is an excellent starting point towards other positions such as office administrator, record keeper, or front-line manager. The tasks and responsibilities become larger and more complex as you accumulate skills and workplace savvy.
Office Administrator
Record keeper
Front-line manager
Study pathways for administrative assistants
While no formal training is needed to become an administrative assistant, there are some training and vocational courses that will give you the head start you need in the industry and prepare you for further career progression.
Getting Started
Kick start a career in administration by studying one of these courses.
Skill Building
Build your skills and develop your career in administration
Professional Development
Increase your professional standing and formalise your skill set
Industry Recognition
Joining a professional association may help you find more employment opportunities as an office manager or administrator in the future.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your administration career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.