Executive assistants support top management and may supervise lower-level employees. Training ranges from on-the-job learning to associate degree programs, with certifications and continuing education necessary for a competitive edge. High school graduates with office skills can advance to the position. CAP certification and membership in professional organizations enhance credentials.
If you enjoy working in an office but want more responsibility, you can become an executive assistant. These administrative professionals support top management in the day-to-day operations of a company and may even supervise lower-level employees. Different levels of executive assistant training range from on-the-job learning to an associate degree program. Certifications give you a more competitive edge in your job search. Continuing education is often required to maintain technology skills in a rapidly changing environment.
Pursuing an executive assistant training program that emphasizes office administration or business management will help prepare you for the responsibility you will assume. If you hold a bachelor’s degree in the field of the business, you may have an advantage as you will be familiar with industry-specific terminology, procedures, and other elements. Business and technical schools, as well as community colleges, generally offer one- to two-year business programs.
Some companies hire high school graduates with office skills; therefore, if an executive technical assistant training program is not available, you may be able to obtain an entry-level job and advance to the position. It may take longer to reach your goal this way, but if you plan on staying with the company for several years, you’ll typically become familiar with its products and its culture, a definite asset to supporting your executives. You may need to deal with vendors and manage travel and meetings, even at a lower level, which will add to your experience.
Some of the lessons you can expect during executive assistant training include computer applications, accounting procedures, and customer service. English for Business and Communication courses can help you improve your written and speaking skills. After you graduate, you’ll generally need continuing education to stay competitive, especially with computers. Vendors of database software and other complicated programs often offer instructional seminars on their products. Independent training companies do this too, and your company can pay the fees.
In large companies and law firms, high-level staff may have their own secretaries who just go about their business. A smaller company might have an executive assistant who manages several at once, and even supervises and instructs receptionists and general office workers. Any supervisory experience you have complements your executive assistant training and should definitely be included on your resume.
A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certification from the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) can enhance your credentials. Eligibility is based on experience and education, and the CAP is earned through exams. Membership in various professional organizations provides networking opportunities, continuing education and will help keep you up to date on what employers are looking for. In addition to executive assistant training, you can also apply for paralegal or medical coding credentialing to work in these fields.
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