Introduction
Administrative assistants perform a variety of duties. The job outlook for this occupation appears healthy as many businesses utilize the services of administrative assistants. Finding these jobs requires some research and training. Depending on the industry the assistant is employed in determines the necessary skills and nature of work involved. Often searching online for jobs administrative will yield several open positions.
Duties
Administrative assistants in GA perform a multitude of tasks. Often they will have to perform many tasks at one time. Employers refer to this skill as multitasking. With the proliferation of technology, these positions require more jobs administrative in nature. Workers need to possess the ability to handle a variety of technology. Assistants function as a customer service liaison. Often this means dealing with customers and clients via the phone and in person. Good job candidates possess great skills in verbal and written communication. They mediate conflicts and diffuse difficult situations involving customer complaints.
Businesses utilize computers to conduct a generous portion of the work. Administrative assistant possess the technological savvy to navigate various computer systems including personal computers and Macs. Many jobs administrative and clerical fall to these assistants. It is often their job to effectively manage the organization. They maintain paper and electronic client files. They compose correspondences, answer emails and field phone calls using high-volume phone systems.
They coordinate travel plans book flights, book hotel rooms and arrange for transportation for company executives and staff. They use various types of office equipment. This includes computers, fax machines, copiers and label makers. They may conduct new employee orientation. They possess flexibility in order to work with a variety of people.
Executive administrative assistants support high level company executives. Their duties focus more on performing jobs administrative in nature rather than purely clerical. Medial administrative assistants work with a variety of health care staff. Their knowledge bases includes medical terminology and often medical charting. Legal administrative assistants draft correspondence. This includes drafting memos, proposals, motions and subpoenas.
Training
Training prepares administrative assistants to perform their duties more efficiently. Entry level positions are open to those that possess a high school diploma. Having basic office skills qualifies these individuals for starting lower level positions. Some high schools offer training programs that focus on typing skills. Vocational schools and community colleges offer programs that last a year or two. These programs focus on office jobs administrative tasks. Additional on the job training provides workers with additional skills pertinent to their particular jobs. Taking continuing education courses also provides additional skills for assistants.
Tips and comments
Always be ready and willing to learn new skills. Employers look for an appetite and ability to learn new technology and methods. Hone people skills. Employers look to hire people who are adept at dealing with difficult personalities and an office full of staff. Become familiar with the company's rules, policies and procedures. Knowledge of these procedures and rules allows administrative assistants to function at an optimal level. Obtain certification from an appropriate entity. Assistants working in a legal setting may pursue such credentials as Certified Legal Secretary Specialist. Another possible certification is Certified Administrative Professional.
