How to Advance From Executive Assistant to Office Manager

When you have experience working as an executive assistant in an office setting, you may want to advance your career to the next level and obtain the position of office manager. The main difference between the two is the broader scope of the duties of managing an office. You will perform many of the same duties, but instead of reporting to one person in the position of executive assistant, in the higher field of administrative work, you will responsible for reporting to several members of the administration. You will have to meet the needs of all the employees in the company.

You do need to have the training required for the position as an executive assistant, which is usually a degree in office or public administration before you can apply for the position of office manager. Another requirement of this position is that you have experience working in a managerial position in an office or within the company. Although advancement to this position carries an increase in salary, it also carries an increase in the duties and responsibilities. You should look carefully at the increase in duties when you are considering making the move to this higher position because it will take up more of your time.

Some of the duties involved in the position of office manager include:

• Selecting appropriate vendors for supplies
  
• Supervising the purchasing process
  
• Supervision of staff in a variety of positions
  
• Coordinating safety checks of the work environment

Depending on the size of the company, you may also have to perform other administrative tasks, such as bookkeeping responsibilities such as accounts payable and accounts receivable.

When considering the move from executive assistant to office manager, it would be helpful to discuss the roles and responsibilities of the position with your supervisor or another person who already holds such a position. This will give you a clear idea of this is a role you want to take on. If you are doing this for the increase in pay, you have to make sure it is a position that you will enjoy and feel comfortable working in. These people may be able to give you pointers that will make your job easier. Some ways of connecting with these administrative personnel include attending administrative meetings and getting to know the personnel of other companies.

The skills required of an office manager include the ability to multitask. Interpersonal skills are essential for dealing with a wide variety of people on a daily basis. You should have great problem solving and decision-making skills and be able to adapt to changing situations, especially in times of stress. There are many classes and seminars offers at colleges and universities in accounting and office management techniques that you can take, which will help you enhance your existing skills and prepare you for advancing to this position. You may find it overwhelming at first, when you get hired for the job, but with experience you will quickly learn how to prioritize and handle every situation that comes your way.