Also known as administrative assistant training, have a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Initially established to meet the growing demand for skilled administrative professionals, these schools have evolved to keep pace with technological advancements and changing workplace dynamics. The role of a secretary has transformed significantly over the years. From traditional secretarial duties like typing and filing to modern responsibilities such as managing digital calendars, coordinating meetings, and handling communication, the profession has become more multifaceted.
While secretaries are generally in charge of tasks such as filing, record keeping, and correspondence, they often handle the receptionist role as well — greeting clients, making appointments, and answering phone calls. You also have to be prepared to handle interoffice communications, which is when those interpersonal talents will come in handy. Unfortunately, not everyone you talk to is going to be the most tactful and respectful person, and that goes for bosses and clients. If things happen to go wrong, even if it's an accident or improbable computer error, chances are that the blame is going to fall on the secretary. That means an administrative assistant may be challenged to handle difficult situations with grace and tact.
Upon completing their training, students may choose to pursue certification to enhance their credentials. Certifications such as Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) or Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) demonstrate proficiency in specific areas and can improve job prospects. With experience, administrative professionals can advance to higher-level roles such as executive assistant, office manager, or department coordinator.
Certificate | Skills Required | Exam to be Taken |
Administrative Professional (CAP) | Office management, administrative tasks, communication skills | CAP Exam by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) |
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) | Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) | Office Specialist Certification Exams by Microsoft |
Professional Secretary (CPS) | Secretarial skills, business communication, organizational management | Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) Exam by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) |
Legal Secretary | Legal terminology, document preparation, law office procedures | Certification Exam by the National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS) |
Executive Assistant | Support skills, project management, decision-making support | Exam by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) |
Secretarial schools play a vital role in preparing individuals for successful careers in office administration. The comprehensive curriculum, which includes classes in office procedures, computer applications, communication skills, financial management, and specialized training, equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in administrative roles. The emphasis on essential skills such as organization, communication, technological proficiency, and professionalism ensures that graduates are well-rounded and prepared to meet the demands of today's dynamic workplaces.
Many secretarial schools offer practical training components such as internships or externships. These experiences provide students with real-world exposure to office environments, allowing them to apply classroom learning in a professional setting. Internships also offer opportunities to network with professionals and potentially secure employment upon graduation.
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The curriculum of a secretarial school is designed to provide a well-rounded education in both fundamental office skills and specialized areas relevant to modern administrative roles.
Office AdministrationAdministrative assistants must relate well with other people, and maintain focused attention to tasks that office managers will remember. In addition to the specific classes outlined above, secretarial schools emphasize the development of essential skills that are valuable in any administrative role. These skills are often woven throughout the curriculum.
Attending college offers benefits beyond academic learning. Students are exposed to diverse perspectives that challenge their thinking. This fosters problem-solving and communication. College is also about social skills. Whether through student organizations or sports teams, students develop leadership skills and build lasting friendships.
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