We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Education

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Become an Entry Level Administrative Assistant?

By Harriette Halepis
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 2,645
Share

Many companies now hire administrative assistants to perform secretarial and administrative duties. The job of an administrative assistant is a demanding one that requires a lot of effort, a number of different talents, and some basic education. In order to become an entry level administrative assistant, all candidates should have a good grasp on the following skills.

The number one skill that most employers are looking for is excellent typing ability. The best way to become an entry level administrative assistant is to learn to type quickly, efficiently, and without error. Thus, typing courses are recommended for all potential candidates -- it is not uncommon for an employer to ask all candidates to perform speed typing tests.

In addition to typing, computer skills including word processing, spreadsheet, and database computing are essential. Obtaining a certificate from a local business school is a great way to compete with other applicants for the job of administrative assistant. Candidates who do not have any formal administrative training may still acquire this type of job, though competing against candidates who do have certificates will be tough.

Another great way to become an entry level administrative assistant is to specialize in one field or another. Some specializations include law, medicine, and real estate. Candidates who know a great deal about one specific topic are often invaluable to companies that require assistance. Some job placement agencies will train prospective administrative assistants as well.

Speak with job placement agency representatives, and ask about specialized training. Some of these companies will provide free necessary training courses to those applicants that sign-up for job placement. In addition, job placement counselors can provide any candidate with a wealth of information regarding administrative assistant positions.

On occasion, it is possible to begin as an entry-level clerk within a company, and be promoted to a better position. Frequently, a person who can demonstrate exceptional skills will become an entry level administrative assistant simply by showing loyalty to a company. If this type of lateral movement is sought, it is best to look for a company that has room to promote lower-level employees.

Seeking to become an entry level administrative assistant means learning how to file, fax, run errands, answer phones, balance appointments, and expertly complete any other task asked by an employer. In short, this job position is one that requires organization, energy, and an aptitude for getting any job done with complete ease.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/how-do-i-become-an-entry-level-administrative-assistant.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.