A job in administration involves a variety of secretarial and clerical work. And since these are the basic requirements of all businesses, jobs in administration are available in practically every sector. In many small businesses, the administrative staff may be required to take on other supportive roles that help the business grow. An administration job description would vary depending on the size of the company and the sector under which it falls. But it basically includes handling correspondence via telephone, e-mail, fax, typing up reports, maintaining an efficient filing system, making appointments, and perhaps making hotel reservations or booking flights.

Administration jobs remain one of the most highly sought-after forms of employment, with almost 60 applicants per position. A sector which encompasses much variety, two admin jobs are rarely the same, and offer good scope for progression for the passionate and enthusiastic individual. It pays not to be disheartened by the aforementioned statistic. It is true that there is much competition for these sorts of jobs but crucially, there are also a significant number of openings. In the last quarter alone, over 10,000 available Administration jobs were posted online.
What can you expect from an administration job? The buzz-word when it comes to this sort of job is versatility. Whether in a secretarial job, acting as a PA or another type of administrative role, the requirements and expectations will often vary from company to company. There are, however, some standard aspects which form the basis of administration jobs. Computer skills are of paramount importance. An individual should have good knowledge of the typical office programmes (Word, Excel etc.) and should be fully competent in using the Internet. Solid verbal and written communication abilities are also a must. A person in an administrative job often acts as a note-taker and messenger, ensuring common understanding and thus the cohesion of the company as a whole. The people best suited to jobs in administration tend to be inherently organized. More often than not, individuals in admin jobs play a significant part in the day-to-day co-ordination of those in higher positions, so the administrator should be comfortable and confident in organizing not only themselves, but being held accountable for others too. Pro-activity and prioritization are benchmarks of this profession.

So why are administration jobs so popular? This sort of employment is particularly attractive for a number of reasons. Administration is at the core of any business, so a person in an administration job is in the hub of the activity. This situation is perfect for all levels of ambition: it is ideal for someone who wishes to be part of the working world and to benefit from its vibrancy, but who is perhaps happy to remain in a less pressured role with a more gentle (but nonetheless important) level of responsibility. At the same time, administration positions act as great stepping stones for those who wish to progress. Starting at this base level allows for solid introduction into the workings of a company. With a firm grasp of the operations of the business, an individual becomes a valuable commodity and is likely to be noticed and thus called upon when opportunities for advancement arise.
When competing for administration jobs, the best quality to demonstrate is keenness. Administrative roles ensure the smooth running of a business, so an enthusiasm for knowledge of the workings on every level, and an obvious desire to learn more, are sure to impress a potential employer. Do your research before applying to an admin jobs. If necessary, even look over copies of relevant periodicals and other publications to provide you with good background information on the specific company, the sector and the industry as a whole.
It is also essential to show that you have the capacity to be flexible. The daily tasks of a person in jobs of an administrative nature are often diverse - from conversing with the office cleaner to interacting with the CEO! A positive attitude, sunny disposition and willingness to embrace change will serve office admin jobs very well.
Administrative professionals are arguably amongst the most skilled and competent in today's workforce. Administration jobs can be a fulfilling role and, when coupled which a proactive approach, can be a great starting point for an impressive career.