What They Do
The office manager is responsible for many of the daily administrative tasks that face an organization. They often include welcoming visitors, facilitating appointments or fielding phone calls. They also supervise the office staff, assist in setting and analyzing budgets, and help develop policies. The office manager’s purpose is to ensure that the office operates at the highest level of efficiency. This also includes ordering supplies, managing workspace, overseeing inventory stores as well as handling information requests. Depending on the company and its requirements, those in this position also manage the schedules, travel and appointments of executive staff.
Adept communication skills, presentation ability, and computer knowledge are among the most critical skill needed in this role. Whether by telephone, email, hand-written, or in-person, office managers are constantly in contact with clients, executives and other employees. As the primary contact, personal appearance and self-confidence is just as important as communication skills. Proficiency with technology will allow an office manager to maintain customer databases and communicate more efficiently, and raise their value to a company.
Career Growth
Between the years of 2012 and 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a growth rate between 8 and 14 percent, with about 80,000 new openings for office managers. Often, people in this profession are employed in the fields of healthcare, business or public administration. In recent years, organizations have begun contracting managerial duties for grounds maintenance, food service, and equipment repair with external businesses. This will no doubt affect this career path, and offer new opportunities for potential office managers.
Salary Potential
The average salary for an office manager in the United States, according to PayScale, is $42,555 a year. Depending on the field and experience, this figure can range from $26,000 to $60,000 annually.
The geographic location and type of industry also affect the level of annual pay. Larger markets, like San Francisco, New York, and Boston report a 25% higher than average salary for office managers. Because of the demands of the industry and the importance placed on administrative functionality, sectors such as finance and government also compensate office managers at a higher rate than other industries.
Education Required
While a graduate level degree is rare in this profession, most employers will require a bachelor’s degree in business or a closely related field. The most important qualities are experience and technological knowledge. Many companies require at least two years of management experience in potential candidates. Being able to utilize existing technology to streamline an office setting also greatly increases one’s employability.