The importance of an Administrative Assistant and what the role involves
As a career coach of over 25 years, I’ve seen countless people transform their careers by landing roles that were perfect for their skills and ambitions. One of the most rewarding and integral positions in any company is that of an Administrative Assistant. This role is often described as the backbone of business operations – supporting teams, ensuring efficiency, and making sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
An Administrative Assistant is responsible for handling day-to-day clerical tasks such as managing correspondence, scheduling meetings, maintaining filing systems, preparing documents, and liaising with clients and colleagues. The role requires outstanding organisational skills, strong communication, and a proactive attitude.
In the UK, salaries for Administrative Assistants vary depending on location, experience, and industry. Entry-level professionals might start at around £20,000 per year, while experienced Administrative Assistants can earn between £25,000 and £35,000 annually. Senior-level administrative professionals or executive assistants can command salaries upwards of £40,000, particularly in London and larger cities.
Why your Administrative Assistant CV matters more than ever
Your CV is your personal marketing tool, your ticket to standing out in a competitive job market. Employers often receive hundreds of applications for a single role, so your Administrative Assistant CV template needs to show not only your skills and experience but also your personality and suitability for the position.
Crafting an Administrative Assistant CV example that catches the eye of recruiters means presenting a clear, professional, and compelling story about what you bring to the role. Done well, your CV will secure you the all-important interview where you can further demonstrate your abilities.
How to structure your Administrative Assistant CV
Over the years, I’ve guided thousands of candidates on how to create CVs that truly shine. Here is a proven structure that works for Administrative Assistant roles:
Contact details – Name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile.
Professional summary – A short, tailored paragraph at the top summarising your career, strengths, and what you bring to the role.
Key skills – Bullet points that showcase your top skills such as organisation, MS Office proficiency, communication, and multitasking.
Career history – Your most recent roles listed first. Include job title, company, dates, and key responsibilities and achievements.
Education and training – Relevant qualifications, courses, and certifications.
Additional information – Languages, volunteering, or software knowledge that may add value.
What makes an interview-winning Administrative Assistant CV template
A winning CV isn’t just about listing duties; it’s about showcasing achievements. For instance, instead of saying “responsible for diary management,” say “successfully managed diaries for five senior managers, optimising meeting schedules and improving team efficiency by 15%.”
Employers love measurable results. Your Administrative Assistant cv template should highlight examples of cost-saving initiatives, improved processes, or how you contributed to team success.
Advice for graduates looking to secure an Administrative Assistant role
If you’re a graduate or just starting your career, you may not have extensive work experience. That’s absolutely fine. Focus your CV on transferable skills gained from university projects, part-time jobs, internships, or volunteering. Highlight organisation, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Make sure your professional summary radiates enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. Employers value motivation and a can-do attitude, especially in administrative positions where flexibility and reliability are key.
Advice for experienced and middle-management Administrative Assistants
If you’re at the mid-level stage of your career, your Administrative Assistant cv example should demonstrate both depth and versatility. Employers will want to see how you’ve handled increasing responsibilities, trained others, or streamlined office procedures.
Don’t be shy to mention the software tools you’ve mastered, such as Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, CRM systems, or scheduling software. The ability to use digital tools effectively is a significant advantage in today’s job market.
Advice for senior Administrative Assistants and management level
Senior Administrative Assistants and executive-level professionals must show leadership, initiative, and impact. If you’ve supported directors, CEOs, or large teams, highlight your role in executive decision-making processes.
Your Administrative Assistant cv template example at this stage should emphasise strategic support, project management, and influencing skills. Employers will look for someone who not only manages tasks but actively contributes to the success of the business at a higher level.
The do’s and don’ts of writing an Administrative Assistant CV
Do’s
Do tailor your CV to each job application by using keywords from the job description.
Do use clear, concise language and avoid jargon.
Do highlight measurable achievements and impact.
Do keep your formatting clean, professional, and easy to read.
Do include a strong personal statement at the top.
Don’ts
Don’t send the same generic CV to every job – customise it.
Don’t overload your CV with unnecessary detail. Keep it focused and relevant.
Don’t include outdated or irrelevant roles unless they demonstrate transferable skills.
Don’t forget to proofread – spelling and grammar errors can be a dealbreaker.
Don’t exaggerate; honesty and authenticity always win long-term.
General career tips for Administrative Assistants
Networking is key – connect with other professionals on LinkedIn and attend career events.
Stay current with new office technologies and software; employers value adaptability.
Be confident in interviews by preparing examples of challenges you’ve overcome and contributions you’ve made.
Remember that your role is essential – Administrative Assistants are the glue that keeps organisations together.
Final encouraging words from Jerry Frempong
Over my years of coaching, I’ve helped people from all walks of life land fulfilling careers as Administrative Assistants. Remember this: your CV is your story, and only you can tell it in the best possible light. A well-crafted Administrative Assistant CV template is not just about securing a job – it’s about opening doors to growth, opportunity, and career success.
Stay confident, stay focused, and believe in your ability to succeed. With the right CV, your interview-winning opportunity is just around the corner.
