Degrees and Certificates Information (College Catalog)
Job Opportunities
Specific classifications of employees in this field include: Administrative Assistants, Administrative Support Workers, Data Entry and Information Processing Workers, File Clerks, Human Resources Assistants, Information Clerks, Office Clerks, and Secretaries.
Demand
Office professionals are part of a very large occupation. They are found in practically every industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employees in this category held approximately 4.1 million jobs in 2002, making this class of employees among the largest occupations in the United States. Employment exists in the public and private sectors alike.
Duties
As a valuable member of a team, the office professional typically uses new technology to perform a wide variety of tasks. Tasks are likely to involve communicating, organizing, researching, working on projects, coordinating activities, and integrating information for the organization's internal and external needs. Responsibilities may also include planning conferences, working with clients, and instructing staff.
Why
Organizations in every sector of the economy need office professionals to maintain effective operations. Individuals work in professional settings with flexible schedules-part- to full-time and telecommuting are often available. The office professional's position is one that can provide a springboard into career advancement to supervisory and/or managerial positions.
Qualifications
Today's employers are increasingly seeking office professionals who are skilled in the areas of keyboarding, computer applications, such as, word processing, spreadsheets, and database management. Proficiency in English, good spelling and grammar as well as good communication skills are all required of the office professional. Workers in this classification must be tactful in their dealings with others. They will often be called upon to use their interpersonal skills in their dealings with the public. Office professionals must also be able to use discretion, and exercise good judgment. They should also have good organizational skills. Initiative, and the ability to work independently are especially important for higher level administrative positions.