An Office Assistant performs ad hoc or administrative functions. They work with business, operations, or office managers. They oversee office communications, and petty cash. Office Assistants do filling, typing, drafting, and answering phone calls. They receive walk-in guests, schedule appointments, answer emails, and may perform the duties of a receptionist.
The responsibilities of an Office Assistant include:
• Handling business correspondence
• Distributing office communiqués
• Taking messages and transferring calls
• Faxing, scanning and copying documents
• Drafting internal memos
• Ordering office supplies and stationery
• Handling petty cash
• Performing administrative functions for operations team
• Reporting to administrative or office manager
• Taking notes or minutes at meetings
• Coordinating with team leaders in arranging meetings
• Compiling contact lists

• Microsoft Office applications
• Written, telephone and electronic communication
• Organization
• Self development and learning
• Integrity and reliability
• Attendance and punctuality
• Professionalism
• Confidence and demeanor
• Attention to detail
• Report writing
• Record keeping
• Bilingual

Having a Business or Management Degree is advisable for Office Assistants. They should be able to use all the equipments in an office including printers, scanners, copiers, PDAs, phones, projectors, computers, and laptops. Office Assistants without a first degree should possess good telephone, customer relations, and organizational skills. NVQ, SVQ, GSCE, CLAIT, or ECDL qualifications are also acceptable in entry-level positions.