So, you’re looking to become or may have been working toward becoming an administrative assistant for a while, but unsure where to go. No matter the field you’re looking for, getting started requires doing research in order to learn what you need to do to get where you want to be.

We are dedicated to helping people like you find the job they have been searching for, so we have a few tips for you. Read on for our advice on how to become an administrative assistant.

Do Your Part

The most important place to begin is to truly understand what you’re signing up for. Do you know exactly what it is that an administrative assistant does?

This is generally clerical work involving office support tasks. In this position, you will write up reports, research, set up meetings and other correspondence, send emails and other mail, greet visitors, and more. Entry-level positions usually start with lighter duties such as filing and bookkeeping.

If you are considering an administrative assistant job, here are steps you can take to start:

Complete high school

You will need a minimum of a high school diploma or its equivalent to get an administrative assistant job.

Complete an associate or bachelor’s degree

While you can get hired with a high school diploma, many employers prefer or require administrative assistants to have an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration or a related field. These programs can teach you the fundamentals of administration and management and can provide practical experience to help you work in an administrative assistant position.

Acquire skills

Once you have the educational qualification, it is important to develop the skills you need to deliver on the job. Learn how to use the computer programs relevant to the industry you want to enter, including word processing, spreadsheets, accounting applications and task-specific software.

Get certified

Administrative assistants can boost their employability with several certifications. You can become certified in certain common computer programs, become a registered administrative professional or learn how to do basic accounting and inventory management.

Use a staffing agency

An administrative assistant position is the kind of work that a staffing agency is built to help you find. Staffing agencies can help you with:

• Cleaning up and optimizing your resume.
• Pairing you with companies and positions that suit your personality and skills.
• Coaching you so you are ready to ace your interview.
• Providing benefits that can include medical, tuition reimbursement, and even retirement plans.
• Assisting you with finding your next position if your current one isn’t the right fit.
• And more.