Applying for a job as an Administrator or Administrative Assistant?

28 February 2022

Applying for a job as an Administrator or Administrative Assistant?

Administrators carry out a range of tasks in an office or workplace. Their role varies depending on the organisation, but essential skills are being organised and a good communicator. The role is often a stepping stone to more senior roles in administration and management.

What are the top skills and accreditation employers are seeking in Administrators?

    1. Good literacy and numeracy
    2. Written communication
    3. Verbal communication
    4. Organisation
    5. Time management
    6. Attention to detail.

    Values, attributes and experience employers often look for

    Some administrator roles don’t ask for formal qualifications or much paid experience. Instead, an employer will want to know if you share their values and demonstrate the right skills.

    Values

    • Positive attitude
    • Honest
    • Professional
    • Team player.

    Attributes

    • Communicates well and can build rapport with people
    • Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy
    • Confidentiality
    • Attentive and aware – with good attention to detail
    • Gets things done.

    Experience

    To start a career as an administrative assistant, often not much experience is required. However, if you do have this experience, it will be helpful:

    • Computer skills eg MS Word and modern communication and project management platforms
    • Written and verbal customer service experience
    • Study or previous experience.

    A job in administration can be incredibly rewarding. With huge demand right now, and growth anticipated to continue, this is a great place to direct your career.

    Download CoAct’s FREE Administrator application toolkit

    There’s everything you need to help you tailor your own application: Administrator application toolkit

    Want help to apply? You’ve come to the experts

    If you’d like help to get into an administration role and are living with a disability, treated injury, illness or health condition, we can help. Give us a call on 1800 226 228 or register for Disability Employment Services online.

Illustration of staff member sitting at her work desk

Subscribe to the my JobCoach newsletter:

We can help you navigate the world of work with the latest job search tips, news and updates direct to your inbox each month.

Acknowledgement of First Nations Peoples

CoAct acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to the peoples, the Cultures and the Elders past, present and emerging.

Diversity and inclusion

CoAct is committed to embracing diversity and inclusion by providing an inclusive service and work environment. We welcome everyone, irrespective of age, sex, gender, sexuality, culture, religion, size and ability.

Accessibility

We are committed to ensuring accessibility for people with disability. This includes digitally, in the workplace, and on the path to work. Online we continue to improve the user experience for every visitor by applying and upholding accessibility standards.
© 2026 CoAct