An administrative assistant is the crucial support for any organization who will be responsible for communications, scheduling, and even record keeping in the smooth running of business. It is, therefore, very important to tailor an effective resume for an administrative assistant position showcasing your strengths and experiences in vivid detail.

Check out the free templates of administrative resumes with a detailed approach on how to write an effective one.

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Format of the Resume is Crucial

To get started with your resume effectively, it is important first to choose an appropriate type for your administrative assistant position. In such cases, the reverse-chronological format is common because it reflects your work experience, highlighting how much your career is growing.

Reverse-chronological: This refers to the format where your most recent work experience comes first, and this is what most employers prefer.

Functional: If you are making a transition into administrative roles or have breaks in work, then a functional skills-based resume would be effective to show your relevant skills.

Combination: People who have much experience find the combination format that intertwines both functional and chronological very effective.

Start off with a Great Summary

Your resume needs to start off with a good professional objective. It is going to be the elevator pitch-one paragraph summarizing your experience, your skills, and your career objectives.

Example: "Detail-oriented and organized administrative assistant with over 5 years of experience supporting executives in fast-paced environments. Adept at managing schedules, organizing events, and handling correspondence with proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM systems. Seeking to leverage proven office management skills to help drive efficient business operations."

Embrace Your Key Skills

Administrative assistants require a vast range of skill levels, from technical to interpersonal communication. In this section, be sure to highlight the key competencies you bring to the table.

Some examples of skills an individual may list include, but are not limited to:

Time management: The ability to handle numerous projects and deadlines all at once.
Office software: MS Office Suite, Google Workspace, etc.
Communication: Verbal/written-telephone/email etiquette.
Problem-solving: Effective at troubleshooting office-related issues and coming up with quick solutions.
Data entry & organization: Ability to maintain effective records accurately.
Event planning: Arranging meetings, events, and travel.

Emphasize Your Work Experience

When it comes to your work experience section, this should reflect value delivered to former employers. Again, in bullet points, list your main responsibilities and achievements; anywhere possible, quantify your achievements.

Examples:

ABC Corp | Administrative Assistant | Jan 2019 – Present
Ensured effective C-suite executive meetings, communications, and travel scheduling through the management of a shared daily calendar and booking schedule for three executives.
Spearheaded monthly staff meetings and quarterly company-wide events, improving the participation rates by 20%.
Developed and updated detailed filing systems for client information, reducing data retrieval time by 35%.

Include Your Education

For an entry-level administrative assistant, most companies only require a high school diploma or its equivalent. However, any additional education beyond that-such as the attainment of an associate's degree or certification in office administration-can show distinction from other applicants.

Example:

Associate's Degree in Business Administration | XYZ Community College | 2017
Certification in Office Management | National Association of Administrative Professionals | 2018

Check out the free templates for general manager resumes

List the Relevant Certifications

Certifications can prove that you are committed to your profession and enhance your credibility. Enumerate all the certifications related to administration or office management that you have acquired.

Examples of Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist Certification
Certified Administrative Professional
Office Management Certification

Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

One of the crucial tips in writing resumes is that your resume should be tailored to a certain job. Carefully read the posting and include some of the keywords and phrases from the job posting into your resume. This will let your resume get through the ATS and catch the eye of the hiring manager.

Create a Cover Letter

Since there are a number of applications for the position of administrative assistant, therefore, attach a cover letter which accompanies your resume. You can elaborate on your experience in such a letter and let them know why you're a good fit for the position.

Proofread is Important

Attention to detail is perhaps one of the most vital skills that any administrative assistant has to possess. And it should go without saying in your resume. There can be no typo, grammatical error, and discrepancy in formulating. A shiny, no-mistakes resume speaks much for your professionalism.

Final Words

Your path to that ideal administrative assistant job begins with the penning of an administrative assistant resume that outlines your experience, skills, and professionalism. Keep it concise, make sure it aligns with the job description, and make sure your achievements are quantitative where possible. Following these tips will help you on this journey of creating a strong impression with your resume.

Administrative Assistant Resume