Job Search & Hiring
How to Become an Executive Assistant
Glassdoor Team
Glassdoor Team | Author & Career Expert at Glassdoor | Jan 1, 2024
Are you thinking of becoming a Executive Assistant or already started your career and planning the next step? Learn how to become a Executive Assistant, what skills you need to succeed, how to advance your career and get promoted, and what levels of pay to expect at each step on your career path. Explore new Executive Assistant job openings and options for career transitions into related roles.
Steps to Become a Executive Assistant
Executive assistants provide and coordinate high-quality administrative support to an executive team. Specific tasks may include occasionally supervising staff members, preparing research reports, and analyzing documents. They are an indispensable and integral part of an office and are typically found in various industries including recreation, hospitality, retail, education, and more. Here are five steps on how to become an executive assistant:
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Earn your high school diploma or equivalent.
To make it into an entry-level position as an executive assistant, you'll first need your high school diploma or equivalent education, such as your General Education Development certification (GED). This will help you learn basic mathematics, economics, computer skills, and English, which you'll need in your new work environment. If your school offers typing or office administration classes, you can take this to help you better navigate the job. -
Advance your education by getting a degree in a relevant field.
- Bachelor's degree. You can earn a bachelor's degree in any subject to become an executive assistant, but you might consider studying business, communications, business administration, or a related field.
- Master's degree in Office Administration. This master's program can equip you with an advanced understanding and skill set to be successful as an executive assistant.
- Ph.D. in Administration. If you want to further your education by earning a Ph.D., consider studying administration to prepare you to apply your knowledge to your work.
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Seek employment in places like nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
- Nonprofit organizations
- Government agencies
- Large private companies
- Educational institutions
- Entertainment companiesAs an executive assistant, you'll need strong interpersonal, writing, and organizational skills. You'll have job responsibilities, including responding to faxes, emails, letters, and calls in a prioritized way. You'll also supervise clerical staff, help prepare documents, and manage travel and schedules.
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Earn a relevant certification.
- Certified Professional Secretary (CPS).
- Certified Administrative Professional (CAP).
- Advanced Certificate for the Executive Assistant (ACEA).
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Focus on advancing your career.
Once you've obtained the necessary education, work experience, and certifications, you can focus on advancing your career as an executive assistant. Certain companies will allow you to progress and gain a higher position within the same company. You may need to begin an outside search to find a career opportunity to match your newly acquired skills and education.When preparing your resume, highlight accomplishments and skills relevant to the position. You may also wish to take certification courses and highlight these on your resume when applying for your new executive assistant job. Tailor your cover letters to be job-specific to provide a more personalized approach to the interview process.
Glassdoor Team
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