How to become an Administrative Assistant
To become an administrative assistant you may be required to:
- Graduate from high school or obtain a GED.
- Build your office management skills and computer software application knowledge through lower-level positions such as data entry.
- Obtain any required industry-related certifications to learn industry-specific terminology and practices.
- Consider completing an associate's degree in a business-related field.
- Complete on-the-job training.
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Typical qualifications for an Administrative Assistant
Skills employers are looking for
About Customer service
Skill or experience assisting customers before, during, and after purchases to satisfy customer needs.
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About Computer skills
Knowledge of or experience with computers.
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About Administrative experience
Experience or skill performing administrative tasks such as answering phones, scheduling appointments, or maintaining records.
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About Typing
Skill using a computer keyboard to type.
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About Phone etiquette
Experience practicing good manners when on the phone.
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Administrative Assistant jobs in United States
Career progression for Administrative Assistant
Education levels for Administrative Assistants
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| High school diploma or GED | 46.4% |
| Bachelor's degree | 27.4% |
| Associate's degree | 21.5% |
| Master's degree | 4.5% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.2% |
| Middle school education | 0.2% |
Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $27,900 |
| 4 - 8 | $30,600 |
| 8 - 12 | $32,200 |
| 12 - 16 | $33,300 |
| 16 - 20 | $33,900 |
| 20 - 24 | $34,000 |
Common questions about career advices for an Administrative Assistant
What career paths are available for administrative assistants?
Administrative assistants can advance to become executive administrative assistants. This normally requires having a bachelor's degree and may also require having CAP certification. You will need to have some years of experience and also, preferably, knowledge of the business. With the knowledge and experience you gain as an executive secretary, you could possibly move up to become a manager.
What are the best soft skills for an administrative assistant to have?
Some of the most ideal skills for an administrative assistant include:
- Organization: A quality secretary makes sure no one misses a meeting, files are easy to find and the office runs smoothly
- Communication: You need to be able to speak clearly, communicate information accurately and write well
- Attention to detail: Your writing, data entry and reporting have to be error-free to present information accurately and professionally
- Time management: You may work for multiple people, perhaps within multiple departments, which makes your own time management very important
Are there certifications which administrative assistants can take to improve the career prospects?
While you don't need any certifications to become an administrative assistant, you can gain a competitive advantage in the job market by becoming a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP). To take the CAP exam, you must have particular work experience qualifications depending on your education level.
