When it comes to office and business support, administrative assistant jobs are what executives and business owners depend on most. This type of assistant works in virtually every type of industry although job responsibilities are much the same no matter what. There are also different levels for administrative assistant jobs, some being more entry level and others closer to an executive level. The person in this position is often thought of as the glue that holds things together in that the primary focus is to keep the business operating smoothly.
Job Responsibilities
To perform the various tasks associated with administrative assistant jobs, the individual would need to be extremely well organized, possess excellent oral and written communication skills, have capability of multitasking, and know how to create documents, presentations, spreadsheets, and so on using standard computer software. In addition, this person is often exposed to confidential information so being able to protect the boss and company by not sharing is critical to the position.
Some of the job functions that administrative assistants provide regardless of the type of company being worked for include
- Scheduling appointments
- Handling travel arrangements
- Word processing, presentation, and spreadsheet creation
- Planning special events for clients
- Dealing with vendors, merchants, and customers via phone and email
- Purchasing office equipment and supplies
- Creating special reports
- At a higher level, managing lower ranking assistants
Career Opportunities
Of all assistant jobs, administrative assistant jobs have the largest number of openings in the country. With in-depth knowledge and skill with computers, as well as other technology, qualified assistants are always in demand. A highly skilled administrative assistant is capable of handling many important tasks for the boss, which in turn relieves him of stress and pressure. In fact, there are times when administrative assistant jobs cover personal errands for the boss as well.
With administrative assistant jobs, people with the right skills can pretty much choose where they want to work within the preferred industry. These assistants hold positions in hospitals, law firms, manufacturing plants, retail store headquarters, real estate companies, at airports, advertising and marketing firms, government entities, and the list goes on. With administrative assistant jobs, the sky is the limit, making this one of the most secure positions available today.
Then, if someone had special skills, perhaps being bilingual or knowing a skill for a specific industry, this would open even more foods of opportunity. While some people remain in administrative assistant jobs and are completely satisfied, others use an assistant position such as this to learn and eventually, move up and on.
Education and Training
There is no type of formal training required to work any level of administrative assistant jobs although some college or business coursework would be considered helpful. Today, this assistant position has become so popular that the market is competitive even though open. For that reason, candidates to work as administrative assistants that have some college education, as well as strong computer skills typically get more consideration.
Now, on an entry level type of administrative assistant job there would be some on-the-job training. Of course, even at the higher level, this type of assistant would be required to learn about the business and people involved so training while working is typically an ongoing part of the position. Basically, the person interested in a career as an administrative assistant would have no problem being hired on by a reputable company by having an educational background.
Salary Potential
Average salaries for administrative assistant jobs varies depending on the type of industry, the particular company, level of assistant work being provided, geographic location, educational level, and any special training. However, on average someone in this type of assistant role would earn anywhere from $32,000 to $50,000. Keep in mind that along with base salary, there are many corporations that provide unique benefits to administrative assistants.
For example, these assistants usually work for companies that provide good healthcare insurance benefits and some have life insurance, dental, and vision. In some cases, administrative assistants would be required to travel for the job, which would include trips being completely paid for by the company. In some instances, a bonus program is established for administrative assistant jobs based on set criteria of achievement
