Career Opportunities and Work Life

Skills You'll Need

Salary Ranges

The Classroom Experience

Certificate & Degree Options

The role of today's administrative assistant has evolved from the days of answering the telephone and typing letters. Problem solving skills, the ability to effectively manage projects to meet quality standards and deadlines, and proficiency in dealing with an ever-expanding array of technology are necessary for today's administrative assistants.

"Area employers tell us over and over that they are looking for people who not only can do the technical aspects of the job but who possess the soft skills - professionalism, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to work in a team environment," states LMC Administrative Office Systems instructor and advisor Lisa Augustiniak.

When other factors are equal, interpersonal skills are usually the deciding factor in determining which candidate receives the job offer. Hiring managers frequently give greater attention to soft skills, knowing that these abilities are more difficult to develop than technical skills.

Other skills and knowledge you'll need to be successful include:

• Clear verbal and written communication
• Flexibility to work as part of a team and independently
• Word processing, spreadsheet, database, and Internet computer skills
• Accounting
• Keyboarding
• Record keeping and filing
• A strong sense of organization
• Professionalism