Executive secretaries are expected to perform a multitude of tasks and we’re not even talking about the most mundane such as scheduling meetings, answering phone calls and making coffee. Most of them are taking on responsibilities previously held by managers, for instance, producing reports, writing correspondence and even training new employees. So if you want to seize an executive secretary post, you might want to pick up your game and add the following in your application:
1. An executive secretary certificate. Many secretarial jobs are entry-level positions but additional training is often necessary if you’re eyeing to serve the company’s top executives. CEOs, in particular, can hardly afford to make mistakes and they expect the same from their secretaries. Completing an executive secretary course does not only introduce you to tasks required of this era’s executive secretaries; it is also a testament that you are a serious contender for the job.
2. Superb communication skills. Writing letters, creating presentations and communicating whether through phone or face to face have become integral in executive secretaries’ list of tasks. Hence, come prepared with an ability to write and speak well. Don’t get all worked up though! You don’t have to reach Hemingway’s level but brush up on grammar, do spell checks and practice your speaking skills as much as you can. Make use of free tools that can help you in this aspect.
3. Technology savvy. Executive secretaries work for the upper management and as such they are supposed to work fast and be able to manoeuvre what technology offers at present. While you can learn the indispensables (word processing and spreadsheets) in an executive secretary course, familiarizing yourself with other software and office equipment in use today will make your application stand out. It cuts training time which is good news in terms of costs and urgency in hiring.
A lesser-known tip to becoming an executive secretary that bosses wouldn’t want to let go is to look professional. You may not find this in any executive secretary certificate module but you sure can catch some great tips online. Throw away the old fashioned secretary look because business doesn’t have to be boring even if a uniform is required. Play with accessories if you want but keep it to a minimum. Of course, stay on the safe side and try not to overthrow your boss in the fashion department.