An administrator is in the unique position of being able to transfer to many different industries due to their specific skill sets. With their ability to organise, liaise with clients and employees and keep paperwork in order, administrators are an indispensable part of every company.
When people think of administrators, they often only think of them in roles within traditional businesses, but there are many unusual industries where their skills can be put to good use. We take a look at four of these.
But first, let’s look at the top transferable skills administrators usually possess.
Top transferable administrator skills
Transferable skills are those skills that you can put to good use no matter in which industry you find yourself. They are often “soft” skills, things that you learn through your job and as life experience.
Some of the most sought-after transferable skills administrators possess are
- Typing:
The ability to type fast and accurate is a boon in many an industry. It is a skill that employees like transcribers, computer programmers, editors, journalists and public relations officers find indispensable. It enables them to be more productive, especially in high-stress workplaces with tight deadlines.
- Computer skills:
The ability to efficiently use software like Microsoft Office, Zoho, Zoom, Skype and other productivity tools or industry-specific programmes. Proficiency in a range of software will definitely give you a leg-up on fellow job seekers.
- Organisational and time-management skills:
Employers want employees that can stick to deadlines and work as part of a team and on their own. In terms of administrator skills, filing and keeping offices, diaries and workspaces organised are excellent skills for any industry.
- Interpersonal skills:
Many administrators are required to help manage staff or liaise with clients and guests. Interpersonal skills are therefore key to forming good working relationships and providing excellent customer service.
- Attention to detail:
This is a sought-after skill as it means that fewer mistakes slip through in paperwork and production processes. This also makes for happier customers and ensures that staff are as productive as possible.
Unusual industries that an administrator can thrive in
If you’re looking for a new challenge to take on using your administrative skills, here are four industries you should consider:
Entertainment
The entertainment industry has a myriad of exciting and varied opportunities. Companies and institutions such as events organisers, museums and art galleries, entertainment venues and theatres need administrators to effectively run their day-to-day operations.
Consider: Arts administrator – helps organise exhibitions, manage staff and look after buildings such as art galleries or museums. For this role, you’ll need knowledge of and enthusiasm for art, in addition to a qualification in business studies, events and entertainment management or arts administration.
Law
There are also plenty of opportunities for legal administrators if you are interested in working in the law and order industry. In addition to managing the daily operations of the office, administrators need to manage schedules and appointments such as trial dates and hearings and travel.
Consider: Legal secretary – provides administrative support for lawyers and legal executives. You’ll need to gain knowledge of legal matters such as court procedures and government regulations.
Charity fundraising
Charity organisations and causes need administrators to help organise fundraising events and activities, as well as to manage their day-to-day operations.
Consider: Charity fundraiser – helps to organise events that encourage people to donate to specific charities and causes. Marketing and public relations knowledge will be very beneficial if you are interested in this role.
Education
Education institutions like schools, colleges and universities require a huge amount of administrative processes to function effectively. Administrative roles are often varied and require a good amount of both administrative prowess and people skills.
Consider: School secretary – duties could include being the main contact for parents, governors and pupils, answering queries face-to-face, via email en telephone, acting as a receptionist and greeting guests and other visitors, updating and organising electronic and paper records.
Find out which opportunities are currently available on our vacancies page or contact us to find out which roles you might be suited for.