Advice on becoming an Administrator/Clerk
Simon Thompson on An administrator/clerk or clerical worker ensures the efficient running of an office or department, a great all-rounder who is organised, good at using their initiative and is methodical and thorough.
Standard admin jobs include sorting the post, managing people’s diaries, typing, filing and ordering office supplies. Administrators are often the first point of contact between a client and a company, so answering the phone and greeting clients is common.
The role can also involve support work for others, be it helping out with research, gathering information by phone, email or in person and supporting the reception desk. There’s also usually plenty of database management to be done.
Good literacy and numeracy skills are always important, but an administrator generally doesn’t need loads of qualifications to gain an entry-level position. Anyone with telephone, typing or organisational skills will have a head start, however, and there are a number of vocational certificates available that will help people stand out in a crowded marketplace, among them NVQs and BTECs in business and administration.
Other qualifications that will really boost a CV include an A Level in business administration and relevant courses from Pitman and RSA.
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Other recommended resources:
Institute of Administrative Management
Bringing together administrators and those who manage them to engage in a forum of ideas and best practice, encouraging and improving the highest standard and supporting those within the role. They offer information and guidance, as well as training events that can help administrators on their route to management.
Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators
With events, training, a regular magazine publication and a number of online information resources, the ICSA offer administrators and secretaries all that they need to become successful within their role and continuing professional development to help them ascend beyond it.
Pitman Training
Offering a wide range of training specifically aimed at administrators, clerks and secretaries, Pitman cover all of the basics for an admin role. Attending seminars and achieving diplomas can supplement an application and see you ascend within the role.
LCCI
Providing globally recognised business-related qualifications, LCCI can help administrators and clerks train and develop to perform to their highest potential and set themselves on track for higher positions. They specifically host a section on to get you started
