Book Learnin' and Stuff Like That.....Do I Need It?

Short answer: Maybe.

Okay, perhaps that isn't helpful. Here is a more detailed perspective.

The position of secretary, administrative assistant, executive assistant and so on is so open-ended at times that it is a matter what industry you might want to work in and also in what city you live that may determine the educational requirements you want to pursue.

I learned how to type, how to work a "word-processor" (don't laugh), English grammar, and "speedwriting" (yet again, don't laugh). Thankfully, I had common sense too. Nowadays, you may want to know more than that. In metropolitan areas, it is natural to see requirements for a degree, although a degree in what may not be detailed. Experience counts for a lot. In fact, a high school diploma can go a far way if you have 5 to 7 years of progressive administrative experience. Ultimately, they are looking for common sense. The hope is that if you don't have it naturally, maybe you got it in college.

But suppose you lack the experience? What to do, what to do.... My suggestion is to look for a certificate course at your local community college. Quite often you will find it under titles such as Office Administration or Office Technology. Some vocational colleges offer this as a two-year degree. There are quite a few for-profit schools out there that provide an administrative curriculum. Be cost conscious. Is it less expensive to learn to type at a community college vs. a for-profit school? Most likely the answer is Yes!

Now don't get me wrong, there is quite a bit to learn to be a productive and valued administrative professional, but if you are just starting out, you are probably not going to bring in a salary of $50,000 or more. You don't want to pay back students loans for years to come because of a one- or two-year program. The key is to avoid exorbitant school tuition. Shopping around is extremely important when it comes to your education.

Whatever choice you make on your educational journey, some classes that are instrumental to a successful administrative career in my opinion are:
1. Microsoft Office software
2. Basic bookkeeping/accounting
3. Knowledge of bookkeeping software
4. English grammar and proofreading
5. Typing (of course!)
6. Website management
7. Database management
8. Internet knowledge (blogs, podcasts, etc.)

Really, education comes in many forms and fashions. You have to be able to pull it together to get the desired result: A JOB!

Next post: Does a title mean anything?