Office Administration Career

Office administration is a field concerned with helping an office's operations (from a corporate headquarters to a small medical office) run smoothly and efficiently. Many opportunities are available in the field, even for individuals without a four-year degree.Highly organized and self-motivated individuals are perfect for this industry, and they have opportunities such as:
  • Computer technology
  • Customer service
  • Office machinery operation
  • Project supervision
  • Sales.
 

Jobs in Office Administration

There are many opportunities in the office administration field, and each specific job will deal with a different set of responsibilities and working conditions.
  • Administrative assistants serve primarily as support for the higher-level positions in an office, as well as maintaining the office's operations. These professionals may be responsible for tasks such as organizing travel schedule, answering telephones and handling incoming/outgoing mail.
  • Customer service managers maintain a rapport with customers and ensure that they are satisfied. They assist salespeople in their tasks and may help to devise plans to provide a better experience for customers.

  • Human resources (HR) workers are responsible for maintaining records on their companies' employees. This information may include vacation time, disciplinary action, insurance benefits and other pertinent information.

  • Office supervisors are responsible for many of the daily activities in an office, including answering phones, preparing schedules, and dealing with employees. The office supervisor is responsible for monitoring an office's operations and handling any general issues that may arise.
  • Shipping supervisors work in plants, stores, and factories.These workers help to ensure that packages are delivered and received when they are supposed to be, and that shipments pass through the proper channels. They may also supervise packing personnel.
 

Facts and Figures

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities in office administration are expected to increase by 6 percent between 2006 and 2016. This slow increase rate is expected to create competition among applicants. As there are many different positions in the office administration field, average salary may differ. On average, an office supervisor makes about $45,000 per year, with the highest ten percent making over $70,000 per year. Those working for large companies are most likely to receive the best compensation and benefits.

Education, Training, And Work Experience

Office administration jobs typically require customer service, organizational and computer skills. On-the-job training is often provided for these workers. However, the highest-paying jobs are offered to those with education and work experience. In order to qualify for these higher-paid admin positions, many online schools offer certification programs.
 
It's also likely that your local community college has an associate's degree program in the office administration field. Breaking in as an inexperienced worker may be difficult; however, the more education and training you receive, the more attractive of a candidate you'll be.

Related Associations And Groups

There are many organizations geared toward educating admin professionals, as well as offering job opportunities. One of the best ways to learn more about administrative assistant jobs is to consult with one of these groups:
  • Association of Professional Office Managers
  • Human Services Administration Organization
  • International Association of Administrative Professionals.
 
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