Office administration is a versatile and valuable skill that can open up many career opportunities. But how can you stand out from the crowd and impress potential employers with your admin abilities? Here are some tips to help you showcase your skills and demonstrate your value as an office administrator.
Your resume is your first chance to make a good impression and highlight your admin skills. Make sure it is clear, concise, and tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Use keywords and phrases that match the job description and show how you have used your skills in previous roles. For example, if the job requires proficiency in Microsoft Office, mention the specific programs and tasks you have done with them. Also, include any relevant achievements, certifications, or awards that showcase your admin skills.
I try to look at other resumes that are around the same level of work experience that I am, and in the same field of work. Once I'm inspired, i take the key points and start to work on my own resume.
The interview is your opportunity to expand on your resume and show off your admin skills in action. Before the interview, research the company and the role, and prepare some examples of how you have used your skills to solve problems, improve processes, or support other staff members. During the interview, be confident, professional, and courteous, and answer the questions with clarity and detail. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and show how your skills led to positive outcomes. Also, prepare some questions of your own to show your interest and enthusiasm for the role.
I practice with interview questions or the STAR method. If you're still a student you might be able to schedule a mock interview with your school on Handshake to really be able to utilize this
A portfolio is a collection of work samples that demonstrate your admin skills and abilities. It can include documents, reports, presentations, spreadsheets, or any other relevant materials that you have created or contributed to. A portfolio can help you showcase your skills in a visual and tangible way, and provide evidence of your work quality and achievements. You can create a digital portfolio using online tools or platforms, or a physical portfolio using a binder or folder. Make sure your portfolio is organized, updated, and relevant to the job you are applying for, and bring it with you to the interview or share it online if requested.
I would really research other portfolios out there and really figure out what style and brand you want to represent. If you want the journey of your portfolio to be part of who you are then make sure to showcase that.
Networking is a great way to connect with other office administrators, learn from their experiences, and discover new opportunities. You can network with other admins through online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter, or through offline events, such as workshops, seminars, or conferences. Networking can help you build your professional reputation, gain insights and tips, and find mentors or references. When networking, be respectful, genuine, and helpful, and offer value and support to others. Also, follow up with your contacts and maintain your relationships.
You should always try to be engaging and building your network. Connect with people in places that you're interested in and introduce yourself. The worst that can happen is that people do not reply back.
Office administration is a dynamic and evolving skill that requires constant learning and improvement. To show off your admin skills to employers, you need to keep up with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in your field. You can do this by taking online courses, reading blogs or books, watching videos or podcasts, or joining professional associations or groups. Learning new skills and improving your existing ones can help you enhance your resume, portfolio, and performance, and show your employers that you are proactive, adaptable, and committed to your career.
You should always strive to keep learning and growing yourself as a person. Once you start really honing in on that habit, everything else starts to fall in place.