Office and Administrative Support Supervisors and Managers Career Description*

Office and Administrative Support Supervisors and Managers

Office and administrative support are vital to every organization. Supervisors and managers oversee the office and administrative staff, helping a business to operate effectively and efficiently. Jobs are available in all industries and fields

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Specifics of the Job

One important function of supervisors and managers is to supervise the administrative staff. Supervisors and managers must be aware of each employee’s strengths and weaknesses. They will need to adjust workloads when necessary. Unforeseen disruptions or employee absences may require others to take on extra work. Sometimes, the supervisor performs the work. Throughout the workday, supervisors or managers will be required to oversee employee’s work. For instance, customer service supervisors will listen in on customer calls to ensure accuracy and courtesy. Supervisors and managers usually schedule regular meetings to discuss employee progress. These written and oral evaluations are recorded and maintained in the employee’s file. Staff members with poor reviews are often trained and monitored. If improvements do not occur, the employees are transferred, demoted, or fired. Supervisors and managers are also responsible for the hiring of new employees. Orientation and training is typically conducted by the supervisor or manager. They review office procedures and teach employees how to use the phone system, computers, and other equipment. Office and administrative support supervisors and managers report to upper management. They often prepare documentation demonstrating the department’s performance rating. Strategies are then formed for improvement, if necessary.

Necessary Qualifications

Most supervisory and managerial positions are filled by office and administrative support staff. Those employees who demonstrate knowledge and expertise, loyalty, dependability, leadership skills, and communication skills are more likely to be promoted to these positions. Candidates should also be well organized, be able to set priorities, and be ready to motivate staff. Some organizations require supervisors and managers to have at least an associate’s degree. Sometimes, organizations choose to hire outside of the company to fill these positions. These new hires are often college graduates with a bachelor’s degree. The administrative support supervisor and manager positions serve as entry-level jobs. These individuals learn about the organization and move up into upper management.

Salaries and Advancement

Annual earnings of office and administrative support supervisors and managers are between $23,000 and $65,000. In addition to healthcare and vacation benefits, these employees are sometimes given stock options or bonuses at the end of the year. Office and administrative support staff who are interested in moving into a supervisory or managerial role are often given in-house training. Some take courses in time management or interpersonal skills. Those with bachelor’s degrees have greater opportunities for advancement.









*This is a summarized article created to allow for a quick career review. For the most accurate and up-to-date information visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor website to learn more about Office and Administrative Support Supervisors and Managers.

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