If you are planning an administrative assistant interview, there are a few things you can do to prepare yourself and get the most out of it, ensuring you have the best chance of getting the job. There are no "right" ways to prepare for an interview; However, there are strategies you can use to improve your chances. The following steps will show you how to approach an administrative assistant interview.
Steps
Step 1. Learn about the duties of an administrative assistant
The functions of this figure are to schedule and make appointments, to maintain the physical and virtual archive, to organize the registers, to use specific programs for data entry and creation of reports, to manage telephone lines and to prepare documents such as memoranda, letters and emails..
Step 2. Do some research on the company
When preparing for any type of interview, you should try to gather as much information as possible about the company you have sent your application to. This will show that you are interested and not just desperate for a job.
Step 3. Get familiar with the job posting
Every employer is looking for an employee who has certain skills, qualifications and functions. It is important to study the specific aspects of the job offer for which you have applied. For example, one employer might find punctuality and accuracy important, while another might focus more on creativity, an out-of-the-box mindset and flexibility.
Step 4. Prepare a description of your previous work experience, qualifications, strengths and weaknesses
Always keeping in mind what they are looking for, develop short, concise explanations on the key topics of the interview.
Step 5. Study your resume
You need to be able to answer questions about your resume and provide additional information. Also, make sure your resume is up to date and contains qualifications for the administrative assistant position.
Step 6. Practice your data entry skills
It is quite common for you to be asked for a data entry practice test when you do an interview. So refresh your typing skills, train on speed and accuracy.
Step 7. Prepare answers to frequently asked questions during an administrative assistant interview
Particularly prepare in the following areas:
- You must demonstrate how you organize and manage the daily agenda, what tools you use, how you keep reminders and how you manage any conflicts in scheduling.
- Considering that customer management is an important part of an administrative assistant's job, they may ask you to handle phone calls, liaise between the boss and the clientele, and greet customers.
- As an administrative assistant, they may ask you to handle confidential information. Try to be prepared to explain how you would handle sensitive information, and what steps you would take to protect that information.
- Being multitasking is one of the main characteristics of an administrative assistant, so be prepared to illustrate examples of how you would be able to do multiple things at the same time. In particular, it emphasizes your ability to organize time and take on tasks that are entrusted to you.
- This position requires the ability to use different computer systems. Provide a list of your skills in this area.
Step 8. Practice the answers you will need to provide
You don't have to memorize them, try to be fluid in your speech.
Step 9. Choose the right clothing
Almost all work environments require the services of an administrative assistant; However, it is important to understand how to dress according to the type of company you are interviewing for. Call the switchboard and have them tell you which style is appropriate, so that you can adapt accordingly and add a personal touch. For example, if you are told that the style required is business casual, you could add a blazer to your suit.
Advice
- When you feel confident enough, ask a friend to play the part of the recruiter for an interview, during which you can evaluate your preparation. If you can't find anyone to do it with, do it in front of the mirror.
- Make sure you are well prepared before the appointed day, so that you can give your best when the big day comes.
- Send a thank you note within 48 hours to each recruiter. Take this opportunity to emphasize your interest in the position, and to remind the recruiter of some of your most important qualifications. You could write something like “Thank you for your time. I am really interested in this job and I am sure that with my organizational skills and my previous experience in the sector I could be a plus for your team."
