Does anyone have any tips on preparing for an administrative assistant job interview?

Answer 1

I just got done taking a course in school for resumes and interviews. The best thing you can do to impress the company is research thoroughly what their business is, what it does, and where they're planning to go in the future. Take a note-pad with questions and something to write with. Taking extreme interest in the job will show you're dedicated. Also, be fully prepared to talk yourself up. It seems egotistical, but the interviewer is probably going to ask you several questions pertaining to why you think you should be hired. Outline your best assets before the interview so you're prepared. Good luck!!!

Answer 2

First, get as much information about the company as you can. Have some questions about the company prepared in advance. This will show you took the time to learn about the company and that you are interested. Remember, you are interviewing the company about the job just as much as they are interviewing you.

Be prepared. Have extra copies of your resume. Contact your references so you know what they will say and how to reach them. Type up your reference's contact information in a professional format, similar to your resume, and come with extra copies of that also.

Brush up on your skills, expect that you will be tested during the interview.

Be prepared to talk about yourself and your experience. An interviewer is trying to get a sense of who you are and how you would fit into their environment. If you give brief or one word answers that makes it difficult for them to evaluate you for the job.

Always be professional. From the clothes you choose, to your hair style, to the way you speak... be professional. On the other hand, don't be someone you are not. If you like flashy jewelry, wear some jewelry, but keep it professional. Even if you don't do this type of work now, dress and act how you believe someone in this position would dress and act.

Be sure to ask about benefits. Is there a waiting period before they go into effect? What is the employee contribution, if any? What is their vacation, personal time, sick time policy?

Always, always send a thank you note after the interview. Some people think it is old fashioned or unnecessary. However, you are trying to stand out in a crowd. Sometimes following up with a thank you can do just that.

Try not to be nervous and remember, they would be very lucky to have you in their employ! Good Luck.

Answer 3

KEYS are:

1) Excellent customer service skills so you can effectively work with customers and/or employees (supervisors, co-workers, and other company personnel).

2) Good problem-solving skills because you'll have to field questions and solve a variety of problems that come up along the way.

3) Great multi-tasking abilities because you'll probably have a variety of things to do on the job, often simultaneously. For example, you might have to answer the phones while working on typing letters. Therefore, you need to be able to switch gears easily and handle multiple things at the same time.

4) A high degree of professionalism and trustworthiness because you'll be your bosses "right hand." If you don't look good, perform well, nor act professionally, then it makes your boss look bad.

5) Good computer and office skills because you'll need to handle a variety of common office tasks, such as typing, filing, copying, etc.

Bottom-line is that an assistant's job is extremely important as most bosses would be lost with out their assistant. So even though you don't earn the big bucks and get tremendous credit, you're role is very critical to your bosses success.

Answer 4

The ultimate, and nearly impossible perfect tip: Be laid back, yet professional. Tips to help achieve this: Don't be nervous. Don't speak quietly, but not annoyingly loud either. Don't drink before the interview. Laugh when appropriate, throw a joke in now and than. Basicly treat him as a friend who will pay you. Thats the best advice I can offer.