EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT CAREER PATH
The executive assistant career path can be personally and professionally rewarding. Executive assistants generally support one or more company executives, helping them with day-to-day, high-level, administrative tasks. Working as an executive assistant can provide valuable experience and recognition to motivated business professionals.
WHAT ARE THE EDUCATION AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME AN EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT?
The nature of the executive assistant role is higher profile than other types of administrative assistant jobs. As such, most employers prefer to hire candidates who have earned college degrees in business administration or similar disciplines.
Executive assistants need to be adept at time management; have excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills; and be able to use word processing tools, spreadsheets, presentation software and manage databases effectively. Most job-specific training is provided after being hired. During this time, new executive assistants are expected to get up to speed on company policies, procedures and terminology.
WHAT ARE TYPICAL EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT DUTIES?
The executive assistant job description can vary from one employer to another, and even from one department in a large company to another internal department. However, executive assistant responsibilities typically include clerical duties as well as responsibilities specific to the supported executive or department.
Common executive assistant responsibilities include:
- Training staff
- Managing executives’ calls and emails
- Scheduling meetings and managing executives’ calendars
- Arranging business travel and meetings
- Interacting with clients
- Preparing memos
- Creating and managing travel and expense reports
- Maintaining databases and records
- Supervising one or more administrative assistants
WHY PURSUE THE EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT CAREER PATH?
Executive assistant careers are popular for numerous reasons. The work environment is generally an office or similar setting, with few physical demands. Executive assistants also serve in high-profile roles, managing company executives’ schedules and work. This can be a great opportunity to shine in an organization. The job can be fast paced, which many executive assistants enjoy.
Executive assistant salary ranges — including any incentive compensation and benefits — are set by each organization. It is important to keep in mind that executive assistants are typically more highly compensated than general administrative assistants, as their roles are more demanding. While the median annual wage for all administrative assistants as of May 2019 was $39,850, the median executive assistant salary was $59,340 (as of 2018).
PREPARE FOR EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT CAREERS WITH A BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION DEGREE
If you are considering the executive assistant career path, a degree from Generations College can help. Our business administration degree program — available as an accredited online program or as a traditional degree program on our Chicago campus — teaches students the skills they need to succeed in a variety of exciting careers, including executive assistant careers.
In this two-year program, you will gain the following skills:
- Improve communication
- Learn how to use common business software and other information technology tools more effectively
- Gain insight into business concepts including finance and accounting, human resources, marketing and sales, and much more
To learn more about how a business administration degree from Generations College can help you succeed as an executive assistant, contact us today. When you are ready to take the first step toward your future business career, apply online.