7 Steps to Hiring a Top-Notch Administrative Assistant

When it comes to administrative assistants, they may not be the highest on the pay scale or on the corporate ladder, for that matter. But, as one of the top administrative staffing agencies in Houston, Texas, Murray Resources knows that they’re also, many times, the glue that holds things together…from managing tight schedules to putting together presentations on a moment’s notice to returning important phone calls on behalf of company leaders.

Considering the vital nature of their role, how can you go about hiring the right administrative assistant for your company? Here are seven steps to get you started:

Step #1. Identify Your Needs.

The most effective route to take is to first identify exactly what your needs are. For instance, if you travel a lot, then someone with experience coordinating travel schedules would certainly be an asset.

Step #2. Craft an Effective Job Description.

When writing a description, keep in mind it shouldn’t be a novella…try to keep it concise. That said, it’s important to include details such as an overview of the position, including specific tasks; specifying whether the assistant will work for one executive or multiple ones; and desired traits, like strong computer, organizational, and communication skills, along with plenty of resourcefulness.

Step #3. Screen Out Badly Written Resumes.

If a candidate can’t use proper grammar or spell your name right, do you really want them emailing your biggest clients and representing your company? Probably not.

Step #4. Look for Someone With Experience.

With the high unemployment rate, more and more people who are out of work apply for jobs they’re really not qualified for – like administrative assistants. Without a real understanding of what the position entails, they think, “All I have to do is make coffee and answer phones. How hard can that be?” But the truth of the matter is experience counts in this position.

Step #5. Find Candidates Who Have Worked at Similar Companies.

If you still have a plethora of resumes, even after screening out those with poorly written resumes and those without experience, then look next for candidates with experience working in a similar company as yours. They’ll likely know the ins and outs of the industry and be able to hit the ground running faster as a result.

Step #6. Conduct Phone Screens & Interviews.

Depending on how many candidates you’re left with, the next step should be to conduct phone screens or interviews. If it’s more than a half dozen candidates, then use the phone screens to further whittle down your list of candidates to meet with face-to-face.

Step #7. Evaluate Personality.

While skills and experience are important, considering the amount of time you will be spending with this individual, personality is just as important…if not more. So make sure you mesh well with the person you choose to hire.

Need Help Hiring Your Next Administrative Assistant?

You’ve come to the right place. As one of the top administrative staffing agencies in Houston, Texas, Murray Resources knows how to find the highly organized, efficient, and skilled support staff you need. Contact Murray Resources today to learn more.