Administrative assistants are responsible for almost all clerical tasks necessary for a business to run efficiently. They manage information and communication in the office, schedule meetings and appointments, manage projects and distribute information internally and externally via telephone, e-mail, and post. The administrative assistant resume must therefore show a prospective employer that you are able to perform all these functions and more.

To write a successful resume for an Administrative Assistant position, choose a resume format (chronological, functional, or combination) that will best impress a potential employer with your skills and/or experience and then taylor it to the requirements of the description for which you are applying.

Here are the features you should be sure to include that will showcase your skills and help you land the job of an Administrative Assistant.

  • As with any resume, begin with your contact information. Include your name, address, telephone number(s), postal and e-mail address.
  • Include a professional profile or objective that is geared towards the skills that are prized in a successful administrative assistant. Include power words and phrases such as, “strong organizational skills”, “ability to manage” and “proficiency”. Note that an objective focuses of the company while a profile focuses on the client.

An example of an impressive objective relevant to Administrative Assistant resume would therefore be, “A goal-oriented individual seeking position as an Administrative Assistant in a dynamic organization to utilize exceptional organizational skills for the benefit of the company” while a profile would read “A goal-orient individual intent upon utilizing excellent organization skills in the capacity of an Administrative Assistant.

  • List your past work experience, starting with the most recent. Include the name and location of past employers along with the dates of your employment. Follow this with the details of your position, highlighting those areas that will be of importance in the capacity of an Administrative Assistant. Be sure to include competencies in Microsoft Office Suite, typing wpm, budgeting skills and experience with various operating systems.
  • Go on to include information regarding your education. Include the schools you attended, and the credentials earned at each one.
  • Include your interests as they relate to the position and any certifications, or additional on the job training you have gained.
  • Finally, have at least three references willing to provide a recommendation for you, but do not list them in your resume. Instead, include the phrase, “References available upon request”

Additional Tips

  • Entry level applicants should focus more on the relevant experience in their coursework or the relevant skills gained in other jobs that have prepared them for what is required of an administrative assistant.
  • More experienced candidates should consider limiting their experience to the past ten (10) years.
justjobs Administrative Assistant Resume