Administration Assistant

An administration assistant is responsible for a wide range of tasks to support the operation of an office or organisation. Some specific duties that an administrative assistant might be responsible for include:

• Managing schedules and appointments
• Coordinating travel arrangements
• Answering and directing phone calls
• Handling incoming and outgoing mail and packages
• Assisting with creating and editing documents
• Maintaining records and databases
• Assisting with financial tasks such as preparing invoices and processing payments
• Filing documents and general paperwork housekeeping
• Replenishing office supplies and stationery

The specific duties of an administration assistant will depend on the needs of the individual or organisation they are working for. In general, the goal of an administrative assistant is to help facilitate the smooth operation of an office or organisation by providing support to other staff members and handling a variety of administrative tasks.

Average salary:

£14,000 - £28,000 (per year)

Average working hours:

38 - 40 hours (a week)

Benefits of Working as an Administration Assistant

• Diverse job opportunities - The UK offers a wide range of industries and sectors where administration assistants are in high demand.
• Transferable skills -Working as an admin assistant equips you with valuable transferable skills such as organization, time management, communication, and problem-solving.
• Career progression - Many admin assistant roles in the UK offer clear career progression paths.
• Competitive salaries - Admin assistants in the UK can earn competitive salaries, especially with experience and expertise in specific industries.
• Gateway to other roles - Being an admin assistant can serve as a stepping stone to explore other career paths within an organization.

Toughest parts of working as an Administration Assistant

• Dealing with pressure - Admin assistants often work in fast-paced environments where they need to handle urgent requests, meet deadlines, and manage the expectations of both superiors and colleagues.
• Handling difficult people - Admin assistants interact with a wide range of personalities, including demanding clients, stressed colleagues, and frustrated stakeholders.
• Confidentiality and discretion - Admin assistants are often entrusted with sensitive information and confidential documents.
• Managing expectations - Admin assistants are expected to deliver results efficiently and accurately.
• Repetitive tasks: Admin assistants often handle routine administrative duties such as filing, data entry, and organizing documents.

Required Skills

• Organizational skills - Administration assistants are responsible for managing schedules, maintaining records, and coordinating tasks.
• Interpersonal skills - Admin assistants interact with people at various levels within the organization and external stakeholders.
• Flexibility and Adaptability - Admin assistants need to be flexible and adaptable to handle changing priorities, deadlines, and unexpected tasks.
• Communication skills - Strong verbal and written communication skills are crucial for admin assistants.
• IT skills - Proficiency in using common office software applications such as Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), email clients, and internet browsers is essential for admin assistants.

Required Qualifications or Documents

While a high school diploma or equivalent may be sufficient for some administration assistant positions, some companies may require more advanced education, such as a bachelor's degree or specialised training. Generally, employers will require that the candidate pass GCSE English and Maths as well as have some experience and skills with telephones, typing, and other office IT.

• Education - While there are no strict educational requirements for becoming an admin assistant, a secondary education or equivalent qualifications are generally preferred. Basic literacy and numeracy skills are essential.
• CV/Resume - A well-structured document highlighting your education, relevant skills, work experience, and any certifications or courses completed.
• Right-to-work documentation: As with any job in the UK, employers will require you to provide documentation proving your eligibility to work in the country.
• Certificates and Transcripts: Copies of any relevant educational certificates, diplomas, or transcripts.