In common with many business support positions, office managers work exclusively to ensure other people in the office can do their jobs to the best of their abilities.
People in these roles need to possess patience, multitasking and administrative abilities in order to keep the office – with its variety of individuals fulfilling different roles - organised and functioning efficiently. This article will explain how to make an impact in this role.
Tips for excelling.
The responsibilities attached to those in office manager jobs can vary hugely, depending on the type and size of the organisation for which an individual works. The best office managers are able to get along with people, spin multiple plates, and remain calm under pressure.
To excel in one of these roles it is important to be able to work as part of a team, and to have a solid grasp of office dynamics. Individuals need to be able to work closely with senior managers, general employees, and other administrative staff, to ensure that everyone is happy and able to fulfil their roles easily.
Skills you need.
Having a proactive attitude, and an ability to multitask effectively, can help office managers to stand out, as they reduce disruption in the productivity of the office to an absolute minimum.
One of the best ways for an office manager to shine, however, is simply to act in a professional and accomplished manner at all times. In many ways, an office manager should be somewhat invisible. If other staff members are not noticing the individual, the chances are that they are doing their job well.
Other staff members, for example, will rarely notice anything about their stationery supplies until they run out, for example. An organised office manager will ensure that employees can go about their business without having to worry about admin issues such as these.
What you can do to build your skills.
The very best office managers are constantly looking to develop their skill sets, and the value that they offer their company. As this is such a varied role, individuals should aim to constantly improve their performance and widen their abilities, in order to impress their employers by continually pressing for self-improvement.
Being proactive, and developing new skills in areas which currently do not necessarily fall under the job description, can be one of the best ways to make an impact, and build a reputation as a positive and valuable staff member.
As an example, investing in classes to learn shorthand, or spreadsheet skills, can be very rewarding, as they help to widen the individual's skill set and improve how effectively they can do their job. Attending a course to improve finance skills will mean that an office manager can also help with budgeting and expense calculations, all of which will be greatly appreciated by an employer.
Typical daily tasks.
On a daily basis, the office manager is likely to be responsible for recording attendance, attending meetings, and introducing new staff members to the office. These tasks mean that it is important for them to be good communicators, and to have a friendly, positive demeanour.
As office managers interact with all of the company's staff members on a regular basis, having a driven, can-do attitude, will rub off on the entire organisation.
