Secretary job summary
A good job description starts with an attention-grabbing summary of the position and its role within your company. Your summary should provide an overview of your company and expectations for the position. Outline the types of activities and responsibilities required for the job so job seekers can determine if they are qualified, or if the job is suitable for them.
Example of a Secretary job summary
Our busy office is currently accepting applications to fill the role of Secretary within our customer service department. The successful candidate will perform skilled clerical work, and provide general secretarial support to department administrators. The Secretary will be responsible for assisting with departmental payroll, maintaining financial records and facilitating communication among company departments. This position is ideal for someone who is motivated, able to prioritize work assignments as they come in, and capable of working without supervision.
Secretary responsibilities and duties
The responsibilities and duties section is the most important part of the job description. Here you should outline the functions this position will perform on a regular basis, how the job functions within the organization and the title of the manager the person will report to.
- Greet visitors and direct them to the appropriate departments or individuals
- Respond to queries in person, via telephone or email
- Develop and implement office procedures
- Maintain general company record systems to uphold accurate files
- Compose letters, memos and emails
- Screen documents, book meeting rooms, set up conference calls and take messages
- Perform administrative tasks, including filing and photocopying
Secretary qualifications and skills
Next, outline the required and preferred skills for your position. This may include education, previous job experience, certifications and technical skills. You may also include soft skills and personality traits that you expect from a successful candidate. While it may be tempting to include a long list of skills and requirements, including too many could dissuade qualified candidates from applying. Keep your list of qualifications concise, but provide enough detail with relevant keywords and terms.
- Diploma or relevant certificate
- 2+ years’ clerical experience
- Experience in bookkeeping, accounting and data processing preferred
- Knowledge of specific software programs, including Word, Excel, SAP, Timelink and ActivePay
- Experience maintaining and prioritizing a manager’s calendar
- Able to work independently
- Friendly and professional demeanor
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills