Today’s work environment is constantly changing and the skills needed by the administrative professional is constantly changing along with it. According to capsim.com, what has most noticeably changed in recent years is the full integration of technology, developing distinct company culture and putting an emphasis on collaborative spaces. While basic office skills such as typing, Microsoft Office, managing calendars, booking travel, and scheduling facilities are still required, along with these changes comes the need for a broader range of skills in order to compete in the Office of the 21st Century. Some of these important skills are:
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Collaborating and being able to work as part of a team is important in the Office of the 21st Century. Technology Skills – Ability to quickly learn and use new tools and technologies including your company’s collaboration tools. These may include Microsoft Office Suite and knowledge of OneDrive, Google Suites (Gmail, docs, calendar), using the Internet and performing information searches. Working knowledge of Windows, Macintosh desktop, laptops, smartphones, tablets, and all modern tech devices is also a plus.
- Team Player – In today’s office, it’s important to be a team-player and be able to work on your own initiative in a dynamic and challenging environment. A team-player is one who works well as a member of a team or group. According to capsim.com, being able to work creatively as part of a team has become an increasingly important aspect of contemporary 21st Century workplace settings.
- Communication Skills – Having the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse range of people and job functions is a must have skill. Administrative professionals must also possess excellent communication skills, both written and oral, as well as listening, and organizational skills. They must also have the ability to communicate via telephone in a professional manner and interact with all levels of management.
- Problem Solving Skills – Administrative professionals should strive to gain good problem solving skills and an understanding of how to prioritize multiple projects and respond accordingly, In particular, Executive Administrative Assistants must also possess strong business judgment, professional etiquette and organizational, analytical and problem-solving skills to be able to interact with high-level executives both inside and outside of the company.
- Soft Skills – Administrative professionals must use good human relations skills, in interpersonal interactions, as well as their verbal and written communications. Soft skills are personal qualities such as being responsible, dependable, a self-starter, having a positive self-esteem, being sociable, exhibiting self-management, displaying integrity/honesty, projecting a pleasant personality, showing your human side and projecting a professional image.
While the full list of administrative office skills is long, developing some of these positive skills will help you in your every day work life. Consider some of the courses offered on officeskills.org to help improve your Essential Telephone Etiquette, Positive & Productive Language, Energy and Stamina, Service Oriented Attitude, Handling Complaints and Solving Problems. View the full list of Phone Skills Training courses here.
Tags: List of office skills, office skills, problem solving skills, soft skills, team player, technology skills
