Administrative Assistant
Career Profile: Administrative Assistant
The role of the Administrative Assistant is as diverse as there are different types of industries. Administrative Assistants are employed in small offices up to Fortune 500 companies.
Technology changes in the past decade have changed the role of the Administrative Assistant, no longer considered the “gal Friday” but rather a true professional in an esteemed position. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Website[1], Administrative Assistants perform many functions: information managers, plan and schedule meetings & appointments, organize and maintain paper and electronic files; manage projects, conduct research, and distribute information by all technology resources available in today’s market.
Today’s Administrative Assistant is able to use a wide variety of software programs including word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, database software, desktop publishing, and communication software. Since most executives and managers are now able to do basic computer work this has freed up time for the Administrative Assistant to expand into other areas of the organization. Administrative Assistants who wish to advance have opportunity to be promoted by increasing their knowledge of their company and by upgrading their skills.
There are many different types of Administrative Assistants: Executive secretaries, legal secretaries, medical secretaries, education secretaries, etc. These different titles also have specialized job skills applying to each field. In most industries certifications are available for those Administrative Assistants wishing to distinguish themselves as advanced professionals. For example, medical secretaries have the opportunity to earn certification as a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) through the American Association of Medical Assistants. Additionally, all Administrative Assistants can earn either a Certified Professional Secretary certification (CPS) or a Certified Administrative Professional certification (CAP) through the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). These certifications require extensive study, knowledge gained from working in the respective profession, and self-motivation. Individuals apply to take the certification test, which is usually administered twice a year, in their geographic region. Certification tests are usually conducted over a 2-day period. Obtaining one of these certifications is a worthwhile pursuit for those who wish to advance their career.
Entry level Administrative Assistants may only need a high school education while more advanced positions require at least a two-year degree. Once hired, most Administrative Assistants tend to acquire advanced skills by various means including on the job instruction and seminars.
Administrative Assistants should be proficient in typing and good at grammar usage. Good interpersonal skills are necessary for Administrative Assistants. Additionally, having good judgment, organizational skills, initiative, and self-discipline are important skills for individuals in this field.
Earnings for Administrative Assistants are as varied as there are types of Administrative Assistants. The range is anywhere from $23,000 a year to over $50,000 for Executive Administrative Assistants. Those individuals holding certifications can expect a slightly higher salary.
Job opportunities in this field are considered above national average but as with all industries these opportunities are highly competitive in today's economy. Individuals willing to continually learn and update their skills will have an advantage. As technology changes and advances those Administrative Assistants who are prepared for these changes can indeed expect an open market for their skills.
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