Multitask Your Way Into an Office Administration Executive Career

Working with a variety of computer programs and software, having the ability to juggle multiple tasks at the same time, being organized, neat and punctual as well as communicating effectively are some of the skills needed to be a successful professional in the Office Administration Executive sector. If you possess these skills or have an interest in gaining them, the appropriate training is available.

In just two years, you can earn a College Diploma from Centennial College’s School of Business Office Administration — Executive program. The training is designed to help you learn how to handle multiple functions that are performed by administrative assistants in upper-level management. When applying for this program, you must present an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. You must also have completed compulsory English 12C or U or a skills assessment or equivalent. However, having minimum admission requirements do not guarantee admission to the program.

Once you have been accepted, you will take courses that cover both office and business skills. Some course titles include: Microcomputers, Introduction to Word Processing, Financial Procedures, Executive Communications, Computerized Bookkeeping and Integrated Software Applications. Emphasis is placed on developing document production, note-taking and related computer skills, while at the same time, concentrating on client service, communication and time management. Faculty members, who have experience in the business world and up-to-date knowledge, ensure that students are learning the most current trends and requirements. While the theoretical training at Centennial’s Office Administration Executive program is top notch, it is balanced by a field placement in the last semester. Students find work with a variety of companies and are thrown into the world of office administration. This real life training helps students to gain confidence and encounter the challenges and triumphs of the field.

Once students complete their studies, they have two options. One is to continue with their education in an articulated program with selected universities, institutes, and professional associations. These partnerships allow graduates to apply academic credit towards further study. The other option is to enter the workforce in a variety of sectors including: education, corporate, insurance or financial, government or small business. As with many other careers, office admin allows you to go into a variety of jobs, ranging from administrative assistants and administrative support officers to senior secretaries and executive secretaries. In general, professionals in office administration are responsible for: typing and filing reports, answering phones and taking messages, monitoring departmental supplies and replacing them as necessary, preparing daily appointments for supervisors, performing clerical duties, greeting visitors, attending meetings to take down minutes and ensuring the office is running efficiently.