The Secretaries and Administrative Assistants of Today |
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No Longer Just Message-Takers
Today’s secretaries and administrative assistants have a much different role than the clerical careers of the past. Once purely typists, message-takers, and calendar-keepers, today’s administrative workers perform roles that require office automation, information, and communication skills. That is not to say that the basic functions of collecting, storing, integrating, and disseminating information are no longer the main functions of the administrative professional, but that technology has had a great impact on the job of the secretary or administrative assistant.
Responsible for Efficiency
The main goal of these administrative professionals is to ensure an organization runs efficiently. These individuals communicate from managers to personnel, schedule meetings, organize files, manage projects, make travel arrangements, and even conduct research. More often than not, this job requires working for many people, rather than for just an individual (such as an executive) because technology has put office functions more efficiently into the hands of each worker. For instance, the task of dictation has become a thing of the past.
Knowledge of Technology Required
Secretaries and administrative assistants must be able to work with technology and know software applications. Typical equipment these professionals are required to use are fax machines, photocopiers, scanners, videoconferencing and telephone systems. Necessary software applications include those used for creating spreadsheets, documents, presentations, and reports. In addition, database management may be required.
Educational Requirements
These positions vary by level. There are entry-level secretarial positions that a high school graduate may obtain. Vocational training and community college educations or specialized training for medical and legal areas are sought after by employers when filling a position. Those who will work with executives, often require a college degree. Once hired, much of a secretary or administrative assistant’s knowledge will be developed on the job.
Skill Expectations
Administrative professionals are expected to having good communication skills. Good typing, spelling, punctuation, and grammar are essential. The ability to interact pleasantly and tactfully with people is of the utmost importance since the individual in this position represents his or her boss as well as the company. With efficiency as the main goal, this job requires the ability to work independently.
Job Growth for Secretaries & Administrative Assistants
Job growth for secretaries and administrative assistants is expected to be average when compared to all jobs for the period of 2006 to 2016, according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. Medical secretaries may see faster than average job growth due to demands in the health care industry. Career opportunities are expected to be best for those who possess extensive software application knowledge and computer skills. Those with bachelor’s degrees will be in demand to take on roles that include managerial responsibilities and more complex duties.
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