An executive secretary is a person who works as a top executive’s administrative assistant. In most cases, this is not an entry-level secretarial position. This job typically requires many years of experience working as a secretary for mostly high-ranking officials. An executive secretary’s responsibilities may go beyond those of a traditional secretary. Although prior work experience may be helpful, some employers may insist on a college diploma in order to be considered for this position.
The minimum amount of education required to work as an executive secretary is usually a high school diploma. The student may have excelled in business and computer-related courses in high school. Because the field of executive secretaries is competitive, obtaining a college degree may provide an advantage in obtaining employment. Some people will pursue a two-year associate’s degree, while others will pursue a four-year bachelor’s degree. Many people who want to work in this field can do so enrolling in a business-related program like business administration, business management, or office administration.
In most cases, the executive secretary serves as the right-hand man or woman to a company’s or organization’s top executive. The secretary is frequently the unsung hero behind the scenes, ensuring that the company runs smoothly on a daily basis. An executive assistant in this position is responsible for a variety of tasks. This type of secretary’s most common responsibilities include typing letters on behalf of his or her boss, filling out forms, compiling spreadsheets, and taking messages. In addition, the secretary may provide administrative assistance to other department executives.
An executive secretary may occasionally find himself or herself doing more than just taking minutes in a boardroom. In the absence of his or her boss, the secretary may be required to attend a meeting and represent him or her. While some secretaries may only be required to observe the meeting and take notes to relay to the boss, others may be required to participate actively, such as giving a speech or presenting a presentation. As a result, many bosses devote a significant amount of time to training their secretary so that she can assume leadership responsibilities in their absence.
Unlike most traditional secretaries, an executive secretary may spend time outside of the office correlating activities for the executive. Some secretaries will be in charge of their boss’s travel arrangements. This could include booking flights, making hotel reservations, and booking car service. Frequently, the executive’s secretary will assist him or her with personal matters. For example, the executive’s secretary may schedule doctor appointments, make dinner reservations, and coordinate out-of-office meetings.