8 answers
Henry
Student
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
1
Question
Asked
1162 views
Translated from Spanish .
Que Trabajo Hace un Asistente Administrativo?
What Job Does an Administrative Assistant Do?
And what area of work could I work in without having extensive work experience?
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8 answers
LISA THOMAS,MBA
Project Manager
4
Answers
Henrico, Virginia
Updated
LISA’s Answer
Greetings Henry,
You ASKED - What Job Does an Administrative Assistant Do?
Administrative assistants play an important role in organizing, managing, and keeping an office running. Most administrative assistants are responsible for clerical and organizational tasks like file organizing, scheduling appointments, assisting other staff members, and drafting correspondences or messages. Administrative assistants also use computers extensively to work with spreadsheets, create presentations and reports, and manage databases.
Depending on the business, administrative and executive assistants may also be in charge of purchasing, managing supplies, and working with vendors. At the end of the day, administrative and office professionals are the backbone and lifeblood of many businesses. Without them, offices wouldn’t run as smoothly or efficiently.
Best wishes to you on your career endeavours!
You ASKED - What Job Does an Administrative Assistant Do?
Administrative assistants play an important role in organizing, managing, and keeping an office running. Most administrative assistants are responsible for clerical and organizational tasks like file organizing, scheduling appointments, assisting other staff members, and drafting correspondences or messages. Administrative assistants also use computers extensively to work with spreadsheets, create presentations and reports, and manage databases.
Depending on the business, administrative and executive assistants may also be in charge of purchasing, managing supplies, and working with vendors. At the end of the day, administrative and office professionals are the backbone and lifeblood of many businesses. Without them, offices wouldn’t run as smoothly or efficiently.
Best wishes to you on your career endeavours!
Patrick Meyer
Executive - Data Analytics and AI
566
Answers
Naperville, Illinois
Updated
Patrick’s Answer
Henry, first of all, thank you for your interest and questions about Mechanical Engineering. I hope that the information I provide below is useful to you. It's great that you want to know more about the role of an administrative assistant and the areas you could work in without needing much prior experience. Let me explain in depth what an administrative assistant does and the opportunities that exist for you. An administrative assistant performs several key tasks that are essential to the proper functioning of a business or organization. Common responsibilities include organizing files and documents, planning appointments and meetings, answering telephone and email, coordinating travel and logistics, preparing reports and presentations, and supporting general administrative tasks. . As for areas of work you could start in without much prior experience, there are several options that might interest you: • From small businesses to large corporations, they all need administrative assistants to help in the daily management of their operations. You can find opportunities in a variety of sectors, including financial services, technology, healthcare, education, government, and nonprofits. • Schools, colleges, and universities often hire administrative assistants to handle administrative tasks related to student enrollment, maintaining academic records, coordinating events, and communicating with parents and students. • Hospitals, medical clinics, and offices also need administrative staff to manage appointment scheduling, maintain patient records, process invoices, and assist in the coordination of healthcare services. • Nonprofit organizations often have similar administrative needs as commercial businesses, and often offer opportunities for administrative assistants who want to contribute to the well-being of the community. • Government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, as well as utility companies, may have openings for administrative assistants who wish to be involved in project management, regulatory compliance, and customer service. It's important to know that even if you don't have much work experience, your attitude, skills, and willingness to learn can be just as valuable to employers. Don't forget to highlight your organizational skills, communication, attention to detail, and ability to work as a team on your resume and during interviews. I encourage you to explore the opportunities available in your local area and consider internships, volunteering or training courses to gain practical experience and develop your skills as an administrative assistant. Remember that every step you take will bring you closer to your professional goals!
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1180
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Henry !
Your question is, "What work does an Administrative Assistant do? and in what area of work can I work without having extensive work experience?"
I would be happy to share some advice with you.
First I would like to briefly explain that your position as an Administrative Assistant will depend on the type of company or organization you work for and if you are assigned multiple or one staff to be the assistant for. So the position greatly varies. You can get an idea of the skills needed for various positions by reading Administrative Assistant employment notices on various employment websites such as Indeed, Linked In and others. This will help you greatly to understand the variety there is and what would be expected of an applicant.
Now, for example, I will illustrate some Administrative Assistant positions that I obtained through a temp agency when I relocated to the East Coast as a person in acting to support myself. Sometimes these temporary positions can lead to an offer of permanency, too. One job I had as an administrative assistant was for a handbag manufacturer for the garment industry in New York City. I was assigned to the CEO and it was mostly verbal and written skills for anything the CEO asked me to do. I remember that there was a lot of typing and phone work and it was way before the days of the internet. Today, one may need to know how to use Excel and other computer programs and software.
Another position I had was for the New York University Langone Institute for Reconstructive Surgery. My only duty was to read and review the many, many letters that came to the office from around the world asking for services. I would recommend the most serious and devastating requests to the office manager and this saved her time reading tons and tons of mail. That was my only job duty, however.
I also had an administrative assistant position through a temp agency at a toy company. I was assigned to all the staff there. They ended up wanting me direct full time and I accepted. I was than promoted to Director of Sales Staff. My duties were answering phones, typing and doing presentations at Toy Fair and other industry shows.
So, as you can see, and that was before the internet, it greatly varies based on what type of company you work for. I would suggest learning a lot of word processing, how to use basic and some additional software and these days, you might be asked to manage e-mail and social media for the company. That is why I emphasize strong verbal and written communication skills. In addition, as I've mentioned, read some employment notices to get a variety of ideas about what employers are asking for.
I do hope that this is helpful and please use a translator if need be. Best wishes to you !
Your question is, "What work does an Administrative Assistant do? and in what area of work can I work without having extensive work experience?"
I would be happy to share some advice with you.
First I would like to briefly explain that your position as an Administrative Assistant will depend on the type of company or organization you work for and if you are assigned multiple or one staff to be the assistant for. So the position greatly varies. You can get an idea of the skills needed for various positions by reading Administrative Assistant employment notices on various employment websites such as Indeed, Linked In and others. This will help you greatly to understand the variety there is and what would be expected of an applicant.
Now, for example, I will illustrate some Administrative Assistant positions that I obtained through a temp agency when I relocated to the East Coast as a person in acting to support myself. Sometimes these temporary positions can lead to an offer of permanency, too. One job I had as an administrative assistant was for a handbag manufacturer for the garment industry in New York City. I was assigned to the CEO and it was mostly verbal and written skills for anything the CEO asked me to do. I remember that there was a lot of typing and phone work and it was way before the days of the internet. Today, one may need to know how to use Excel and other computer programs and software.
Another position I had was for the New York University Langone Institute for Reconstructive Surgery. My only duty was to read and review the many, many letters that came to the office from around the world asking for services. I would recommend the most serious and devastating requests to the office manager and this saved her time reading tons and tons of mail. That was my only job duty, however.
I also had an administrative assistant position through a temp agency at a toy company. I was assigned to all the staff there. They ended up wanting me direct full time and I accepted. I was than promoted to Director of Sales Staff. My duties were answering phones, typing and doing presentations at Toy Fair and other industry shows.
So, as you can see, and that was before the internet, it greatly varies based on what type of company you work for. I would suggest learning a lot of word processing, how to use basic and some additional software and these days, you might be asked to manage e-mail and social media for the company. That is why I emphasize strong verbal and written communication skills. In addition, as I've mentioned, read some employment notices to get a variety of ideas about what employers are asking for.
I do hope that this is helpful and please use a translator if need be. Best wishes to you !
Carolyn Cooper
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Carolyn’s Answer
Hi Henry,
An Administrative Assistant is the lifeline of an organization or team. Necessary skills include time management, punctuality, being reliable, organized and anticipating the needs of the team or in some cases your direct supervisor. Additional technical knowledge that will help you in this role include
knowledge:
1. Excel both basic and advanced
2. Microsoft Word
3. Google and all it's offerings
4. Writing professionally
5. Any data gathering system which may be specific to your company
Finally, some amount of flexibility around your schedule may be needed depending on the nature of the business you are supporting. For example, a restaurant may require you to work on the weekends whereas if you are working in a school you would not be required to work on the weekends.
An Administrative Assistant is the lifeline of an organization or team. Necessary skills include time management, punctuality, being reliable, organized and anticipating the needs of the team or in some cases your direct supervisor. Additional technical knowledge that will help you in this role include
knowledge:
1. Excel both basic and advanced
2. Microsoft Word
3. Google and all it's offerings
4. Writing professionally
5. Any data gathering system which may be specific to your company
Finally, some amount of flexibility around your schedule may be needed depending on the nature of the business you are supporting. For example, a restaurant may require you to work on the weekends whereas if you are working in a school you would not be required to work on the weekends.
Julian Del Castillo
Management Consultant
13
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Julian’s Answer
Hi Henry,
An administrative assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the smooth functioning of an organization or office. When I think of this role I think of government jobs, but every organization requires some sort of administrative support, especially if they are customer facing. Some key skills required for this role are communication, organization and time management, attention to detail, professionalism, and teamwork.
You can align yourself in many areas even if you do not have extensive experience, but you would need to be open to starting as a volunteer or intern. Think of the skills you enjoy and find out what job sectors would pay for those skills.
Best,
Julian
An administrative assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the smooth functioning of an organization or office. When I think of this role I think of government jobs, but every organization requires some sort of administrative support, especially if they are customer facing. Some key skills required for this role are communication, organization and time management, attention to detail, professionalism, and teamwork.
You can align yourself in many areas even if you do not have extensive experience, but you would need to be open to starting as a volunteer or intern. Think of the skills you enjoy and find out what job sectors would pay for those skills.
Best,
Julian
Ben Reydler
Financial Analyst
1
Answer
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Ben’s Answer
As an administrative assistant, you'll be in charge of managing day-to-day tasks, coordinating schedules, and handling other organizational duties for your executive. This position is perfect for those who have a keen eye for detail, possess strong organizational skills, and excel in communication. Moreover, this job can be done remotely, making it an ideal choice if you're aiming for a work-from-home setup.
Haley Morris
Project Manager
11
Answers
Nashville, Tennessee
Updated
Haley’s Answer
Administrative Assistants are the superheroes behind the scenes, making sure offices and organizations run like well-oiled machines. Here's a peek into their world:
Chit-Chat Masters: As Administrative Assistants, they're often the first friendly voice or face people encounter, handling phone calls, emails, and inquiries. They also take care of correspondence for their bosses.
Organizational Whizzes: They keep office systems tidy and efficient, managing files, scheduling appointments, and setting up meetings. They're also the go-to people for travel plans for the big bosses.
Record Keepers: They're in charge of keeping records, databases, and spreadsheets up-to-date. This includes keeping track of expenses, managing budgets, and making sure important documents are in order.
Supply and Equipment Managers: They ensure the office never runs out of supplies and everything is in working order. They're also on top of coordinating maintenance for office equipment.
Project Supporters: They lend a hand in various projects, doing research, preparing reports, and providing logistical support. This often involves teaming up with other colleagues.
Customer Service Stars: They interact with clients, visitors, or employees, offering information, help, and a friendly face for the organization.
Calendar Jugglers: They help manage the busy schedules of executives, scheduling appointments, arranging meetings, and making sure time is used wisely.
Data Entry Pros: They're accurate and efficient at entering and managing data, keeping databases and records spotless.
Multitasking Magicians: With so many responsibilities, Administrative Assistants are pros at juggling multiple tasks at once and knowing what to prioritize.
In short, Administrative Assistants are the heart of the office, making sure everything runs smoothly day in and day out. Their top-notch organizational and communication skills are key to a well-functioning workplace.
Chit-Chat Masters: As Administrative Assistants, they're often the first friendly voice or face people encounter, handling phone calls, emails, and inquiries. They also take care of correspondence for their bosses.
Organizational Whizzes: They keep office systems tidy and efficient, managing files, scheduling appointments, and setting up meetings. They're also the go-to people for travel plans for the big bosses.
Record Keepers: They're in charge of keeping records, databases, and spreadsheets up-to-date. This includes keeping track of expenses, managing budgets, and making sure important documents are in order.
Supply and Equipment Managers: They ensure the office never runs out of supplies and everything is in working order. They're also on top of coordinating maintenance for office equipment.
Project Supporters: They lend a hand in various projects, doing research, preparing reports, and providing logistical support. This often involves teaming up with other colleagues.
Customer Service Stars: They interact with clients, visitors, or employees, offering information, help, and a friendly face for the organization.
Calendar Jugglers: They help manage the busy schedules of executives, scheduling appointments, arranging meetings, and making sure time is used wisely.
Data Entry Pros: They're accurate and efficient at entering and managing data, keeping databases and records spotless.
Multitasking Magicians: With so many responsibilities, Administrative Assistants are pros at juggling multiple tasks at once and knowing what to prioritize.
In short, Administrative Assistants are the heart of the office, making sure everything runs smoothly day in and day out. Their top-notch organizational and communication skills are key to a well-functioning workplace.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
3844
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Henry, Answer: An administrative assistant is essential to maintaining an organized and efficient work environment. Their tasks range from handling correspondence, scheduling meetings, preparing reports, taking calls, to organizing files and coordinating travel. Your goal is to ensure that daily office operations are carried out efficiently. The flexibility of the administrative assistant position allows you to work in various sectors without requiring much prior experience. Here I present some examples: Corporate Offices: Both small businesses and large corporations rely on administrative assistants to support day-to-day management. Public Sector: Government agencies, whether local, state, or federal, hire administrative assistants to assist with various administrative tasks. Nonprofit Organizations: NGOs and other non-profit organizations also need administrative assistants to help with coordination and management. In summary, an administrative assistant has a wide range of job opportunities in various sectors and types of organizations, as their role is vital to the effective functioning of any work environment. Here I provide you with some reliable sources that I have consulted: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): This agency of the United States Department of Labor provides data on the labor market, including detailed descriptions of jobs such as administrative assistant. Indeed Career Guide: Indeed is a job search website that offers detailed guides on various careers and job roles, including administrative assistant. The Balance Careers: This online platform provides career educational resources, providing valuable information on different career fields, including the role of administrative assistant. Thank you,
James.
James.