What is an Administrative Assistant?

Administrative assistants provide operational help or support to a company. Most duties revolve around managing or distributing information in an office setting. Administrative assistant work may vary depending on the company, but those seeking to enter the field should be familiar with technology, organized, and possess verbal and written communication skills.

What does an administrative assistant do?

The duties of an administrative assistant may vary. Most often, administrative assistants will oversee office tasks, such as filing, generating reports or creating presentations, and providing meeting and scheduling assistance to avoid conflicts. They may also take inventory and order office supplies as needed.

Administrative assistants also communicate effectively. More often than not, assistants are the face of the company. They answer phones and greet clients and customers. Admin assistants should also be tech savvy. The job may require them to create spreadsheets and use bookkeeping software.

How much does an administrative assistant make?

Nearly every field has the need for administrative assistants. Many start careers in schools, hospitals, or legal and medical offices. Administrative assistants work full time and their salary may vary by experience or location. In 2021, the median pay for an administrative assistant was $39,680, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How do you become an admin assistant?

To become an administrative assistant you need a high school diploma and training. Administrative assistants communicate effectively, work with various computer programs, and should have a basic understanding of accounting. At Ashworth, you’ll work through lessons such as

• Telecommunications. You’ll sharpen written and oral communication skills and learn proper phone etiquette, how to make efficient and productive phone calls, and how to take messages.
• Records Management. In this lesson you’ll learn record management systems, how to maintain a filing system, and electronic filing organization.
• Banking and Accounting Procedures. You’ll learn proper budgeting and inventory management, payroll, and ethics in accounting.

After our Administrative Assistant Career Diploma program, you may have a better understanding of essential workplace skills that employers value.

Train with Ashworth

Start preparing for entry-level work as an administrative assistant with Ashworth. Earn your online career diploma in as little as four months online, at your own pace. Take the first steps towards your career training by calling an Admissions Adviser at or enroll online.