Guide to Becoming a Successful Administrative Assistant

Did you know that successful Executive Administrative Assistants work in nearly every industry, from agriculture and manufacturing, to education and Fortune 500 companies. Administrative assistants often make the first impression on prospective clients, and they provide critical administrative support so fellow employees and upper-level management can do their jobs effectively.

The administrative assistant goals you have set now can help you enjoy a successful lifetime career. Here are some administrative assistant goals you can work toward to land a job at your dream company.

Goals and Objectives for Administrative Assistants

Get an education. There was a time where a high school diploma or GED was enough to get a job as a secretary and work your way up to an administrative assistant position. This is no longer the case in a competitive job market and a society in which going to college is becoming the norm, rather than the exception. According to O*Net Online, more than 50% of administrative assistants employed in the U.S. have some type of college education, and that figure is as high as 67% for executive-level secretaries and administrative assistants.

Bryant & Stratton College offers an AAS in Office Management that will show employers you have what it takes to set goals and accomplish them. Your diploma will also demonstrate your proficiency with modern office technology. After taking our administrative assistant classes, you will be eligible to take the Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Certification exams for Word®, PowerPoint®, Excel®, Outlook®, and Access®.

Look for an entry-level position. If you are currently in high school, or have the flexibility to get a new job, try to obtain an entry-level receptionist or secretary position at a local company. In addition to determining whether or not an administrative assistant position is right for you, you will also be gaining valuable work experience that will prepare you for your future career. In addition, the positive impression you make in an entry-level position will gain favorable referrals and recommendations that will help you get that next great job.

Some employers will help to finance your education if they are happy with your work and want to support your professional development. If you aren’t able to make a job change right now, that’s fine too. Our online degree program is flexible and fits around your current work schedule.

Be flexible. Speaking of being flexible, flexibility is another administrative assistant goal that should not be taken lightly. Modern innovation is such that the technology you learn and use today might be considered outdated within just a few years. Your ability to adapt to new technology and work theories, and your willingness to continue your training and education will be invaluable to your employers.

Also, the demands placed on an administrative assistant can be overwhelming at times. More than almost any other position in the company, your day-to-day work responsibilities can be incredibly varied. From greeting new customers and top-level clientele, to making last minute coffee or lunch runs, there is almost no task too big or too small for an administrative assistant. Your flexibility will allow you to handle each task with grace.

Contact the Admissions Office at Bryant & Stratton College if you are interested in pursuing a career as an administrative assistant. Our friendly admissions counselors will work closely with you to help you attain your administrative assistant goals.