6 Characteristics of a Strong Admin
Although the old saying was always “behind every great man, there’s a great woman”, in the corporate world it should be “behind every successful executive, there’s a great executive assistant.” If you asked some of the most successful CEOs and high-powered executives just how they do it, they would probably say they wouldn’t be where they are without the help from their executive assistant. These people are often behind the scenes making sure that executive is where he needs to be when he needs to be there as well as ensuring he has everything he needs when he needs it.
If you’re in the market for a new executive assistant, there are certain characteristics you should look for during the interview process.
Willing to Learn
There are some people in the world that feel they know everything and these are often the hardest to employ in an assistant position. Your potential admin needs to be willing to learn new things to make it in a support system. Things change at the drop of a hat in the corporate world so they need to be able to adapt and learn these changes without complaint.
Technologically Inclined
During the hiring process, you’ll need to inquire about their comfort level on a technology standpoint. They should be comfortable with several different aspects of software and smartphones so they can keep up with the changing times. Since executives tend to travel a lot, a successful administrative assistant will need to have access to a smartphone so they can keep in constant contact while their boss is out of the office. It would be a good idea to verify their skill level with software applications like Microsoft Excel and Power Point since they’ll be using these often in their duties.
Punctual
Nothing can be more frustrating than excessive tardiness in an assistant. You’ll need to make it abundantly clear just how important punctuality is in this position. If you’re able to show up every day on time, then it shouldn’t be too much to ask that they are able to do the same.
Works Well with Others
In the position of an administrative assistant, they will be required to work in close proximity with several different people. This can include other administrative assistants within the company as well as contacts in other companies. A personable attitude and ability to work with others on a daily basis is important. A working relationship with several different people within the company, and even outside the company, is a good quality for any successful administrative assistant.
Organized
The amount of paperwork in addition to the large number of meetings, activities, travel arrangements, and presentations they’ll need to keep up with make organization an imperative skill. If your administrative assistant isn’t able to stay organized in the fast-paced world you operate in, they probably won’t be a good fit for you. Be sure to choose an administrative assistant that is able to keep every aspect of their job organized so you’re able to perform your job to the best of your ability as well.
Maintain a Professional Appearance
In many cases, your administrative assistant is the first impression that potential clients will get of you and your company. When choosing your support personnel, make sure they are more than capable of maintaining a professional appearance at all times. You never know when your boss’ boss may show up and you’ll always want to make a good impression.
The hiring process when searching for the right administrative assistant for you and your company can be a stressful one. However, if you’re aware of the best qualities that make up the best admins, finding the right one doesn’t have to be a major hassle. Just remember these great characteristics and pick one that meshes well with you and your company and you’ll be sure to hire the best fit for everyone.
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