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2. What is an Administrative Office Specialist?

3.  Today's administrative assistants do much more than answer the phone and stock the supply closet.  Routine clerical work is still part of the job, but administrative assistants are also in charge of  maintaining the office's efficiency by organizing meetings  tracking paper and electronic files  preparing research reports  and overseeing other clerical staff members

4.  They're often tasked with keeping track of the budget—ensuring all departments adhere to the funds they've been allocated.  At times, they're enlisted as project managers, during which they apply their advanced organization and planning skills.  While executive assistants mostly engage with a company's higher-ups, administrative assistants provide support to all levels of the organization.

5. US News and World Report Best Jobs 2013 Administrative Assistant

6. Expected Growth By 2020, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment for administrative assistants will grow by 12 percent, with approximately 118,500 new jobs added—an average increase compared to other professions.

7. Salary  The Labor Department reports administrative assistants earned a median average salary of $31,870 in 2011.  The best-paid made approximately $47,670 a year, while the worst-paid made around $20,050. The highest earners worked in the metropolitan areas of Trenton, N.J., San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.

8. Training  Employers are seeking applicants who possess a high school diploma at the minimum, although many are now looking for those with college degrees or specialized training.

9.  Good writing and verbal communication skills are required, as well as experience with computer software applications like word processing, spreadsheets, and desktop publishing.  This course covers communications, business math, keyboarding, and Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access and Publisher).  Everything you need to be an excellent Administrative Assistant!

10. Reviews and Advice  Susan Fenner, manager of education and professional development at the International Association of Administrative Professionals, has noticed a change in what employers look for when hiring administrative assistants.  "Before, employers were looking for experience," she says. "Now, they're looking for high potential, for people who can think outside the box."

11.  Fenner explains that aspiring administrative assistants need to keep the company's long-term goals in mind and demonstrate not only an understanding of the organization and the industry, but also demonstrate how he or she would be a beneficial addition to the team.  And because companies are always looking to move forward, Fenner stresses that it is important for job applicants to demonstrate both personal and professional advancement.

12.  "If you are looking for a job, now is the time for more education," she says, citing professional certifications and even online courses in business and software applications.  "You don't have to know everything, but you do need to know where to go to fill those skill gaps."

13. What Is The Job Like?  Administrative assistants work in a variety of settings, from corporate and government offices to schools and hospitals.  The cornerstones of the job include distributing information via telephone, mail, or email, planning and scheduling meetings, and maintaining and organizing files.

14.  Administrative assistants generally work 40 hours a week, and much of that time is spent in front of a computer.  However, most administrative assistants do not find it difficult to separate their work lives from their home lives because much of what they do can only be accomplished at the office.

15. Job Satisfaction

16. Are you ready to start?  Enrollment is year round, but space may be limited.  Contact the Family Service Center to find out how you can start on the path to a new career as an Administrative Office Specialist today! 863-993-1333