What Qualities Should You Be Looking for in a Office Administrator?

An office administrator is often the unsung hero of a company. The first person a potential new hire or client meets, the central nervous system of the whole operation, the person who keeps everything running on time and on budget, a good office administrator is an essential part of every successful office. 

But how do you find someone who can be and do all those things and more? 

Here are some qualities to look for when hiring an office administrator: 

Exceptional communication skills.

An office administrator needs to be able to speak with all manner of people in a polite, courteous, efficient, and professional manner. A pleasant demeanor on the phone and the ability to keep things moving without anyone feeling rushed or unimportant is key, as the administrator might need to be a kind of traffic cop to keep things orderly. Being able to relay messages in a timely and thorough manner is of the utmost importance. 

Outstanding organizational skills.

All projects, at some point, will go across the office administrator’s desk. It’s their job to help keep everything running like a well-oiled machine, from ensuring all parts and components are in stock and ready for a build, to making sure invoices are sent out on time, to scheduling travel for that big industry conference. Knowing where everyone and everything is at a given moment isn’t magic — it’s a finely honed skill possessed by a great office administrator. 

Great technical skills.

Today’s offices are getting increasingly high tech, no matter what kind of work you do. Being at least one step ahead of the current software, online tools, and practices can help keep the whole company ahead of the curve. A willingness to learn the latest tools, tips, and software will keep the whole operation looking smart and prepared. 

Nearly superhuman observation skills.

A great office administrator seems to have a sixth sense when it comes to anticipating needs. It’s much more than refilling a coffee pot or making sure that ficus in the corner is watered regularly. It’s restocking supplies before things get dangerously low. It’s reminding, in subtle ways, the names of the new clients and their families. They need to be able to sense something’s about to change and, quickly, set everything up to allow the shifted direction to carry on without missing a beat. 

If you’ve found an office administrator that meets or exceeds these? Congratulations! You’re a very lucky manager. 

Find Great Talent with Debbie’s Staffing

But if you’re looking for a new office administrator, call Debbie’s Staffing today. We’re standing by to help you find a world-class, incredibly skilled office administrator that can help take your company to new heights of success. Give us a call, and let’s get started!