Secretary (General)
SOC 43-6014.00 · ESCO 3343 · OSCA 522131
Role snapshot
Overview
Provides comprehensive administrative and clerical support to individuals, teams, or departments by managing calendars, preparing correspondence, organising and maintaining physical and digital files, taking meeting minutes, and handling phone and email enquiries. Ensures efficient office operations and supports effective communication.
Enables smooth and efficient operation of offices and departments by managing administrative tasks, ensuring timely communication, and maintaining organised records, thereby freeing up professional staff to focus on core responsibilities.
On the job
- Manage and maintain complex calendars, scheduling appointments and meetings.
- Prepare and edit correspondence, reports, presentations, and other documents.
- Organise and maintain physical and electronic filing systems, ensuring document accessibility and security.
- Answer and direct phone calls, handle incoming and outgoing mail, and manage email communications.
- Take accurate minutes during meetings and distribute them to relevant attendees.
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
Typically requires a high school diploma or GED, often supplemented by a vocational certificate or associate's degree in office administration or secretarial studies. Relevant work experience may substitute for formal education.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Secretary (General)
Accounting & Audit
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
conventional · CES
Individuals who enjoy structured tasks, organising information, and providing support to others, combined with a social inclination for interaction and an enterprising drive to manage and implement, often find success in this role.
Personality characteristics
Organised
Excels at creating and maintaining structured systems and processes to ensure efficiency.
Supportive
Enjoys assisting others and contributing to a positive, functional work environment.
Methodical
Prefers clear procedures and systematic approaches to administrative tasks.
Sociable
Comfortable interacting with diverse individuals and acting as a primary point of contact.
Calm under pressure
Maintains composure and efficiency when faced with multiple demands or deadlines.
Best for
- Individuals who thrive in a structured environment and enjoy bringing order to administrative tasks.
- Those who find satisfaction in supporting others and enabling team productivity.
- Professionals who value accuracy, reliability, and clear communication in their work.
Watch out for
- The role can be highly routine-driven, which may not suit those seeking constant novelty or creative freedom.
- Requires excellent attention to detail and accuracy, as errors in administrative tasks can have significant consequences.
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Secretary (General) — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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