The Role of Administrative Jobs in the American Economy

The job descriptions of administrative jobs in the American business world are numerous and cover any combination of skills. Administrative assistants, once referred to as secretaries, are often the overseers who ensure a company runs smoothly. This, of course, is done behind the scenes. Those who can multi–task are efficient, accurate and dependable are always in high demand. Because so many of the details are handled by these administrative assistants, they're often overlooked when it's time to hand out accolades. It's important for those who choose these fields to understand they often aren't acknowledged for their contributions, at least in a traditional sense and can sometimes be high stress jobs.

There are many certification courses available, but these aren't necessarily required. Employers look for those who are computer knowledgeable, can type and write properly, who can coordinate their boss's calendars, travel schedules, and who can maintain accurate files. Other job duties administrative assistants might perform:

• Maintain personnel files within a department or the company as a whole
• Schedule travel and ensure hotel and flight reservations are made
• Schedule meetings and coordinate lunch and dinner reservations
• Provide correspondence
• Can effectively prioritize not only his/her time, but those who she reports directly to

These are but a few of the countless responsibilities an administrative assistant may find him/herself completing on a daily basis. Usually, after the successful job candidate has established his competency, duties are added and responsibilities begin to grow.



Most often, a high school diploma and experience is sufficient to pursue employment opportunities such as an administrative assistant. There are companies who are beginning to require certain certifications, including computer courses, various compliance courses, sexual harassment and any other company-specific requirements. Rarely an assistant is requested to secure a passport. Background checks that are made before employment are not uncommon.

Salaries will vary widely depending on one's experience and the company's own guidelines. On the lower end of the spectrum, administrative support positions begin at around $26,000. Those with the most experience and best abilities can often earn up to $65,000. It's important to understand that one company might pay considerably less than another company in the same city. The economy plays a large role in determining salaries in positions such as these, not to mention a company's own success. Pay scales are based on a number of factors that aren't always uniform. A recent trend in some of the larger companies throughout the country includes those with administrative abilities, but who also possess degrees. Companies have begun to promote those who excel into higher paying and titled positions. In their efforts to maintain loyal employees, many have seen the benefit of these promotions and are acting accordingly.

Another bright spot in this job classification is indicators released by the government's Bureau of Labor Stats. According to its website, this occupation is expected to be one of only a few that will continue to be in big demand and will offer the highest number of new jobs through 2016. There are also indications that tend to support the trend of promotion secretaries and assistants into new roles, such as communication managers.

One final note; those who have a solid understanding and can incorporate accounting programs into slide shows, are bi-lingual and/or can effectively train new employees are in very high demand and trends suggest this trend will continue. For those who are looking for the edge, mastering any of these skills is extremely advantageous.