personal statement for administrative jobs

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Writing an Administrative Assistant’s Personal Statement

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Administrative assistants play an important role in any organization. They are responsible for scheduling appointments, answering phones, managing emails, and providing administrative support.

The job of an administrative assistant requires good organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask. Asides from your resume, a personal statement is a vital document employers typically require to determine your suitability for a job role. The  administrative assistant personal statement examples  in this guide will help you get started on the right note.

A personal statement is your chance to sell yourself to the employer and demonstrate your abilities, qualifications, and skill set. You’ll surely leave a lasting impression on the recruiting manager with a solid personal statement that details what you can offer to the company.

This article will take you through writing the perfect administrative assistant personal statement . 

What Is A Personal Statement?

A personal statement is a document you submit as part of your job application. It is a summary of your skills, qualifications, and capabilities . It details what you can offer an employer regarding your applying job. 

A good personal statement must convince the hiring manager that you’re a perfect fit for the role at hand. You may include your interests, life, and career goals. The personal statement is also a great way to demonstrate your written communication skills. This is because administrative assistants often interact with customers and other stakeholders via email. 

What to Include in an Administrative Assistant Personal Statement

For your statement to stand out, you must include some essential information. Here are some key details to include in an administrative assistant’s statement:

1. Relevant work experience

List any previous work experience relevant to the administrative assistant position you are applying for. This could include experience working in a similar role, handling office tasks, or using appropriate software or technologies.

2. Skills and Abilities

Highlight any skills and abilities that make you a strong candidate for the role. These could be proficiency in computer programs such as Microsoft Office, excellent communication skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.

3. Education and Relevant training

Include any relevant education or training you have received, such as a degree in business administration or a certificate in office management.

4. Personal qualities

In your statement, highlight any qualities that make you well-suited for the role of an administrative assistant. These could include strong attention to detail, a positive attitude, and working well in a team.

5. Career goals

Finally, include a brief statement about your career goals and how the role of an administrative assistant fits into your long-term plans.

How to Write an Administrative Assistant Personal Statement

Your statement should be written in a clear structure, with each section building on the point you made in the previous one. 

The following steps will guide your writing:

1. Begin with a Hook

Begin your statement with a brief statement that captures the reader’s attention. You may start by explaining why you are interested in the administrative assistant position and what makes you a strong candidate.

2. Highlight your relevant work experience

When listing your relevant work experience, include the names of the companies or organizations you worked. Also include your previous job titles, and a brief description of your responsibilities.

3. Mention your most unique skills and abilities

You might have several skills and abilities, but only mention those relevant to the administrative assistant position. Also include any skills that give you an edge over other job applicants, one that portrays your uniqueness. 

4. Highlight your personal qualities that make you stand out

This is where you sell yourself to the employer. Detail any unique qualities that will make you excel on the job. These may include strong attention to detail, a positive attitude, and working well in a team.

5.  Conclude

Bring your statement to a close by convincing the employer that you’re indeed the perfect fit for the job role. 

Administrative Assistant Personal Statement Examples

I am an experienced and organized administrative assistant passionate about using my unique skill set to provide exceptional service.

My career has been built on the commitment to providing excellent support services, which I have perfected through initiative and dedication. 

As a professional, I take pride in learning complex tasks while working efficiently under tight deadlines. I often display impressive problem-solving abilities by resolving issues related to day-to-day operations in a timely fashion. Additionally, I always strive to increase my productivity by exploring creative methods of executing my duties. 

My strong interpersonal skills allow me to interact easily with colleagues from diverse backgrounds and build meaningful relationships. Furthermore, I always ensure effective communication between all stakeholders, helping create a peaceful work environment. On top of that, I am skilled at negotiating favorable terms and achieving organizational objectives. 

Overall, my experiences and expertise make me an ideal candidate for any organization looking for competent and reliable administrative assistance.

I am an experienced and enthusiastic administrative assistant, passionate about utilizing my diverse skills to help organizations achieve their objectives. With my extensive knowledge, I juggle many tasks while working efficiently and effectively under pressure. I focus on delivering results on time with accuracy and attention to detail that is second to none. 

My technical proficiency includes computer use, data entry, record keeping, scheduling, filing, and other clerical duties. With these abilities and my commitment to learning new software applications, I offer a unique blend of energy and experience to any organization. 

Additionally, I strive to build strong relationships through my active communication skills and problem-solving abilities. I also have excellent interpersonal and organizational abilities.

I hope to be considered for this opportunity to serve as an administrative assistant in your organization.

I am an experienced and enthusiastic administrative assistant, eager to bring my organized and dedicated work ethic to any workplace. 

With a proven track record of handling clerical duties efficiently and accurately, I am confident I will become an essential part of your team. My drive is fueled by my creative problem-solving skills and willingness to take on complex tasks easily. 

Furthermore, I have excellent interpersonal relationship skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues while maintaining professionalism. I strive to improve processes within any organization and possess the organizational skills necessary for achieving streamlined operations. 

Additionally, I can easily prioritize tasks, reduce risks, and keep communication lines open between departments while maintaining confidentiality and topmost discretion. My dedication to superior customer service will be invaluable when interacting with clients or customers. 

Overall, I offer a unique combination of experience, energy, skill, and reliability that would make me an ideal addition to your office.

Administrative assistants are the backbone of every organization, as many things won’t function without them. When seeking the role of an administrative assistant, you must display your uniqueness. And capture the employer’s attention in a way no other person does.

A strong personal statement will set you apart from the competition. So it’s worth investing your time and effort to create a striking statement.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Administrative Assistant Personal Statement

• CV Templates & Advice

Have you found your ideal admin job, but are struggling to write a great personal statement for your Administrative Assistant CV?

Personal statements are the perfect opportunity for you to show your potential employer what you’re all about and where your talents lie. We recommend using this short personal profile to promote your strengths, work experience and key skills.

Use this 100-150 words at the beginning of your CV to provide examples of how you match the job specifications and why you are perfect for this role.

If you are looking for further information and useful tips, then read our expert guide on  how to write a personal statement .

What to include in your administrative assistant personal statement

Why you are applying for the role:

• Refer to the knowledge you have of the position to show awareness of the demands of the role.

Why you are applying for this specific role:

• What is it that attracted you to this specific role?
• Why do you want to work for this specific company?

Provide details about your education:

• Provide a brief overview on your previous education (School/University/Higher Education Courses)

Your admin experience:

• Where have you worked previously?
• What were you required to do in your last role?
• Did you have any additional responsibilities in your previous roles?

Your vision:

• What are your career aspirations?
• What are you hoping to achieve in this role?

Example Admin Assistant Personal Statement:

Organised and adaptable administrative assistant with four years’ experience working in various office environments. My attention to detail and excellent time management skills means that every task is completed efficiently and to the highest possible standard. I have a calm and patient disposition meaning that I am able to work effectively under pressure and focus on the task in hand. I am proficient working in a team, but also work well independently. In my previous role, I was responsible for providing administrative support to a large sales department reporting directly to the regional sales manager. To succeed in this role i had to be exceptionally organised and demonstrate strong communication skills. In my next role, I am looking to take on new challenges and additional responsibilities.

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How to Write Personal Statements for Administrative Job Application | Complete Guide

This post will give you a comprehensive idea of what you should include in a personal statement for an administrative job. Check out our examples of personal statements for administrative job applications in this post.

On reading the successful administrator personal statement examples, you will get to know what to do and what not while drafting these documents. This way, you would be on the right track while writing one of these applications.

You can post your doubts and reach out to us once you read this post. We would be glad to help you clarify the same.

What is Personal Statement for Admin Job Application?

Personal statement for admin job application can enhance your chances of landing on the lucrative administrative job you had been eyeing. This document serves as an excellent specimen to demonstrate your core skills and leadership abilities to operate in the administrative profile. With high-quality personal statement for admin jobs, you would have the advantage on your side during the recruitment process. Along with your cover letter, resume, and job application, a professionally crafted personal statement would help you win a job.

A personal statement for admin job articulates your abilities to perform well in the profile. So, you need to convey specific skills with examples in this document. In this post, you can check some of the best examples of personal statements for administrative job application.

NEED EXPERTS HELP FOR WRITING YOUR PERSONAL STATEMENT? CLICK HERE NOW!

Why Do You Need a Personal Statement for Administrative Job?

A personalized personal statement for administrative job helps you explain your potential to a recruiter. A well-articulated personal statement would enable the recruiter understand your abilities. So, you can promote your experience, strength, and skills through this document.

Your personal statement for administrative role is important for the following reasons:

• It articulates your experience and competence in administrative jobs
• A customized personal statement gives you an edge over others
• The document helps the selecting committee to identify your skills
• Amidst competitive job environments, the statement strengthens your profile
• You can explain your specific skills in the administrative profile
• The personal statement complements other application documents like resume and cover letter

structure a personal statement for Administrative Personal Statement Job Application?

Formatting and structuring your personal statement for administrative role calls for expertise. With a proper structure to your personal statement, you can make the crucial information stand out. Besides, you can demonstrate your presentation skills, which also helps the employer assess your profile with ease.

Here’s how you should structure a personal statement for administrative job. An experienced personal statement writer can help you draft this document.

• Mention how long you have been a part of the industry
• Write about the specialized and transferable skills you have
• Mention all your areas of expertise
• Explain the relevant industries where you have demonstrated your competence                                                                                                                  
• The administrator personal statement examples show the relevant interests and qualifications
• Include all the personal qualities that complement your profile
• Include instances that explain your professional abilities
• Write about how you wish to adapt yourself to the new work environment

How Do you Write a Powerful Personal Statement Administrative Job Application in 6 Steps?

Writing a successful personal statement for an admin job requires prior experience. Besides, you might be applying at the entry-level or executive profile. Here’s how you should write a personal statement for admin jobs.

On scrutinizing through the best administrator personal statement examples, you would notice that the introductory paragraph in each document is unique. You can mention what motivated you to apply for the course along with your recent experience.

The body of your personal statement for an admin job should explain relevant skills, interests, and experiences. You might furnish some personal details to support your administrative fellowship, professional summary, or application letter.

Your personal statement should clearly indicate what you would bring to the table. So, you can touch your academic background and professional experience briefly before explaining your plans.

As you check out the best administrative personal statement examples, you would notice how experienced writers mention the awards, certifications, degrees, and industry experience of the candidate. You might also mention the positions you worked in and the corresponding responsibilities.

Before joining a new office, you would be submitting an essay and appearing an interview. However, these documents don’t carry specific examples to explain your skills. Your personal statement for admin job application brings you the right opportunity to mention these strengths.

Draft a strong conclusion for your personal statement that would leave a lasting impression on the recruiters. It should justify the relevance of your application, persuading the selectors to hire you.

Need Help for Writing Your Personal Statement? Click Here!

Sample for Personal Statement for Administration Job Application

Here’s one of the best administrative personal statement examples that you might check out. The experts can draft a similar personal statement for administrative job for you.

With three years of industry experience under my belt, I am willing to shoulder greater administrative responsibilities at your esteemed organization. As an adaptable and organized administrative assistant, I have worked in different office experiences over the years. My excellent time management skills and attention to details help me accomplish the tasks efficiently, adhering to the industry standards.

A patient and calm composure helps me work efficiently under pressure. Admin tasks tend to get complicated at times. On multiple occasions, I have shouldered stress efficiently, focusing on the individual task at hand. Besides, I have demonstrated my competence in working as a team and leading other employees. At the same time, I am comfortable working independently.

I had a gratifying experience operating as an administrative support staff in the sales department for the last two years. I had to report to the regional sales manager directly. Working in this profile, I was able to organize my working process and polish my communication skills. I look forward to embrace a progressive career and deliver the same kind of commitment to your organization. Hence, I look forward to take on additional responsibilities and channelize my skills to address the challenges.

Currently, I am working with an MNC as an operation and admin executive. The company has entrusted me with the responsibility of maintaining professional connection with our clients. In my profile, the responsibilities include making enquiries through emails and telephone. I also assist the team with events, meetings, and conferences. Besides, the company has entrusted me with the responsibility to carry out web-based research and make clear presentations. Besides, I am responsible to ensure that the content on our website for clients remains updated and relevant. At the same time, I am equally competent in maintaining the databases with client details. Evidently, I am well-versed in the core administrative processes, and brace up to embrace my next opportunity.

While I believe that maintaining a high level of professionalism is imperative for me, I also worked on my basics. Before integrating myself into the industry, I graduated with a three-year degree from the Amity University, finishing in the top 3% of the glass. Being practical minded, I believed that true professionalism in work comes from a calculative blend of my existing skills and industry knowledge. This explains why I switched my job twice in a span of three years. Besides, I strived to excel in my professional circuit wherever I worked all these years. I was happy to have delivered value to my organizations. At the same time, this professional exposure helped me evolve as a more competent candidate, with a refined knowledge in admin jobs.

I am willing to apply for the admin job in the marketing department since I already have experience in this field. This experience will come in handy while I take on the new tasks at your organization. I am eager to set my hands on new methodologies and carry on with the learning process. I am also well-versed with the leading software that office admins need to manage the back office. Having completed my B. Com program, I am familiar to accounts management. Besides, I have completed a Diploma program in Taxation and Accounts Management to streamline my profile.

Channelizing my existing skills and fresh knowledge, I would like to work in your esteemed organization as an office admin. With due diligence and commitment, I hereby promise to contribute to the productivity of your organization. I have always been eyeing a progressive career, and I believe that your platform would be the ideal pedestal for me to carry out my professional endeavors. With due diligence and commitment, I would take on the fresh set of responsibilities and deliver value to your organization.

Example – Administrative Assistant Personal Statement

I have had a keen interest in administrative jobs since my childhood. As a Class Representative and School Representative I enjoyed my administrative responsibilities. I like to lead and manage anything and I always took advantage of opportunities to showcase my leadership capabilities and management abilities. I had a strong desire to be part of the Indian Administrative Service. But despite a few failed attempts in the Indian Civil Service examination, I made the decision to be a part of top multinational companies and secure my dream job as an Office Assistant. I have 3 years of experience as an Office Assistant at XYZ and have managed several responsibilities. My excellent time management skills and attention to details has helped me to accomplish my tasks efficiently and fulfill my duties excellently.

As a vibrant person, I have always tried hard to maintain a positive work culture. My interactions with my fellow mates have always been quite decent and these have helped me to hone my interpersonal communication skills. Though at times I feel that administrative jobs get complicated, my calm and patient composure has helped me to work efficiently under pressure and tackle all the challenges. Working both as part of a team and independently, I had efficiently managed my responsibilities well. As a team player, I have demonstrated my skills efficiently. In my position as an Office Assistant, I have sometimes led my fellow mates and trained new joiners. As an Office Assistant, I have prepared reports, documentations, managed meetings and offered customer support. Working as a team, me and my team mates have also contributed towards the sales and marketing branch of the company.

Working in this profile has enabled me to be organized and polish my technical and communications skills. I am sure this job position also offers me the same kind of work environment where I can hold a progressive career and work efficiently for your organization. In order to better equip myself with contemporary techniques on administrative positions, I would look to take on additional responsibilities and polish my skills to address the challenges.

I am sure my perfect blend of professionalism and will to work hard will make me good as an Administrative Assistant. As a Bachelor of Commerce Honors graduate from the well reputed Amity University, I am adept in management and administrative responsibilities, accounting and taxation as well. As a competent candidate, I am ready to take up new challenges and whet my skills.

I am sure my work experience as an Office Assistant will come in handy during my Administrative Assistant job in the marketing department at your Company. I am eager to take up new responsibilities and channelize my talents for the benefit of your company. I am sure your company offers the right platform for me to carry out my professional endeavors. With great enthusiasm and diligence I would like to take up responsibility as an Administrative Assistant and add value to your company. This post will surely help me to better myself and the company. With great diligence and enthusiasm, I would like to take on the responsibilities and add value to your organization by my compassionate work ethics and professionalism.

How Do You Make Your Personal Statement Stand out?

Now, you must be wondering what should a personal statement include for a administrative job application?

• Explanation for applying for the particular role
• Details outlining your educational background
• Your past experiences in the administrative profile
• Your vision on how you can get going in the new organization
• Unique skills that give you an edge over other candidate
• Proper evidence on how your experiences and skills suit the job description
• Specific examples to demonstrate your competence
• Your future goals considering the industry
• The benefits you can bring to the table
• How you view your career progression in the organization

What Administrative Skill Should I Demonstrate?

While writing a Personal Statement for an Administrative job, don’t miss to mention the administrative skills you possess and have exhibited in your previous job.

Below are the top administrative skills you should have to be a successful Administrator:

• Effective Communication Skills
• Organizational Skills
• Responsibility
• Customer Service
• Multitasking
• Time Management

How Do You Demonstrate Excellent Administrative Skills?

It is very vital to include some Administrative Skills you possess in your CV to demonstrate your Administrative capabilities.

So don’t forget to include the following points in your CV:

• You can name some of the events you have organized
• You can give instances in which you have solved a conflict.
• You can demonstrate your technical skills by giving the names of softwares you are familiar with.
• Describe the situations in which you have managed the schedule of a team.
• Name any foreign languages you speak, if any.

What Should You Avoid in a Personal Statement?

Your personal statement for job is a crucial document where you cannot afford to make mistakes. Once you examine the best examples of personal statements for administrative job application, you would notice how flawless they should be.

Faltering with the contents, presentation, tone, or format in your job personal statement can lead to rejection. Therefore, you need to be careful about the common mistakes while writing a personal statement for job and avoid the same. To help you secure the desired administrative job, our writers with more than 10 years of professional experience have pointed out the common mistakes that you might commit.

• Don’t use cliches in your statement as it makes it generic
• Don’t be vague about the skills or write something that others would include
• Refrain from embellishments and exaggerations in your personal statement
• Don’t include buzzwords or unnecessary fluff in the document
• As the language you use matters, refrain from using a negative tone
• Your document shouldn’t include personal information like the number of dependants
• Refrain from making the document ambiguous by using disjoint sentences
• Don’t forget to edit, proofread, and check the document before submitting

To enhance your chances of bagging the job, make sure to have experienced writers on your side. The best administrator personal statement examples will help you understand the quality and tone that would break the ice.

Top 10 Administrative Jobs

Have a look at the top ten administrative jobs to apply for.

• Senior data entry specialist
• Facilities manager
• Medical administrative assistant
• Executive assistant
• Certified professional coder
• Call centre manager
• Customer service manager
• HR benefits specialist
• Contract administrator          
• Senior executive assistant

Pro Tips from Our 10+ Years of Experienced Professional Personal Statement Writers for Jobs

Our seasoned writers have explained how you should draft your personal statement for admin job application. Adhering to these guidelines, you can come up with a powerful and convincing personal statement. This can help you create a strong impression on the recruiting committee who would call you for an interview.

Seasoned writers use their industry experience to draft outstanding job personal statements . Here are some of the tips you would find beneficial.

Intent for application:

Mention your intention to apply for the administrative job. Here, you might include your professional philosophy.

Qualifications:

As you see in the administrator personal statement examples , experienced writers seamlessly draft these documents, mentioning the relevant qualifications of the applicant. 

Proper formatting:

Make sure to format and present the job personal statement properly. This ensures that the readers would find it relevant and inviting.

Editing and proofreading:

To ensure that you submit a flawless personal statement for administrative job, make sure to get the document properly edited and proofread by experts.

Focus on tone and language:

The tone and language in which you write your personal statement matter a lot. So, make sure to use the right tone in this document.

Customize your application:

Remember, each company has its own ethics and working style. So, you need to get your personal statement customized for each of them.

Did We Miss Anything?

Once you check out the personal statement examples for management jobs and CV samples, you will get a clear idea on what to include in these documents.

Hopefully, you are now better informed about how you must draft these crucial statements.

Well, we are at the end of this post, and you may contribute from your end with some ideas you would like to share.

Also, let us know if you benefit from our examples of personal statements for administrative job applications. We would be glad to help you with more of these sample personal statements for you.

What should be included in a personal statement for a job application?

A Personal Statement for job application must include why you are the best person for the specified job.

What are 3 categories of examples that define administrative skills?

Strong organizational skills, communication skills and interpersonal and teamwork skills are the 3 categories that define administrative skills.

What are the three top qualities of an administrative assistant?

Problem solving, Multitasking, Foresight and Anticipation are the three top qualities of an administrative assistant.

What makes you stand out as an administrative assistant?

Your positive attitude and communication skills

Mrs Jizah M

Mrs Jizah M has always enjoyed writing down her thoughts since school days. What just started as a hobby slowly transformed into a passion. Her writing skills were first acknowledged by few of her professors when she wrote content for the college website; this was a turing. Slowly she started getting freelance works and later on, a series of events led her to specialize in academic and higher education related documentations. In additional to personal statements, she along with her team writes LORs, SOPs, college application essays, admission essays and all similar types of documents.

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How to Write a Good Personal Statement for a Job in Administration

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Personality Traits to Become a Secretary

How to write a resume for a school principal position, how to write a cover letter to reapply for my current job.

• How to Briefly Describe the Type of Career Opportunity You Are Seeking
• Good Examples of Why You Would Like to Work for an Employer

Landing an administrative job provides an exciting opportunity to use your leadership skills. Knowing how to write a personal statement for an admin job in school or business settings can give you a strong advantage in the hiring process. When drafting a personal statement for an admin job in school or any other organization, think of it as a homework assignment for writing a captivating commercial or a great campaign ad. All good advertisers know that their product must match the needs and interests of the buyer. In your case, you must offer specific examples of the qualities you possess that align perfectly with the main duties of the administrative position you are seeking.

A personal statement on a curriculum vita (CV) or online job application is a brief but interesting synopsis of who you are and what you can do for the organization.

Tailor Your Statement to the Job

Your personal statement must convince the reader as to why you are an ideal match for the administrative job. Demonstrating that you are highly qualified is not enough. Study the job ad, and speak with colleagues who are familiar with the organization for clues as to the type of person and leadership style preferred. For instance, the school board may be hoping for a fiery principal who can be a change agent; or, perhaps the board seeks an excellent communicator. If you are that type of leader, emphasize those specific qualities when writing your personal statement. Communicate a sense of who are and what you value. Do not simply restate your resume; emphasize the qualities they look for that you possess in abundance.

Highlight Your Leadership Style

Enthusiastically explain your leadership style and philosophy. You can write your personal statement in bullet points or in paragraph form directly below your name and contact information. You do not need to include a heading. Examples of bullet points for a business administrator could include descriptors such as “dynamic, results oriented leader who sets the highest standards possible for myself and my team.” Depending on your personal preferences, you may prefer to write a paragraph in narrative form.

I am a visionary leader with a collaborative management style. Education has been my lifelong passion. Nothing is more rewarding to me than creating inclusive and accessible learning environments, where all children feel valued. My extensive classroom experience, administrator license and special education background make me an ideal fit for the assistant principal job.

Showcase Your Qualifications

First impressions are powerful, so use your personal statement to dazzle a hiring manager. There should be no question that you can do the job if given the chance. For instance, when writing an effective executive assistant personal statement, start by making a list of what makes you a competitive applicant in relation to the position. Consider the work setting and the type of person who is most likely to fail or succeed. An efficient but unfriendly receptionist may not have what it takes to be the public face of the company, for instance. If the ad seeks an outgoing organizer for an admin job, mention directed related qualities in your executive assistant personal statement.

I am a friendly, high-energy professional who anticipates what the boss needs, sets priorities, communicates effectively and organizes meticulously.

Share Your Career Objectives

A good personal statement lets the employer know why you are seeking a new job. Mention that you are looking for a position that offers new challenges and additional responsibilities. You don't want to give the impression that you are unhappy with your current situation or just after a better paying job. Administrative roles require ambition, drive and self-motivation. For instance, the best personal assistant personal statement examples state that you are wanting to learn and grow as a professional.

I am a highly organized, efficient secretary, striving to take my career to the next level. I seek a position as a loyal personal assistant where I can utilize my organizational abilities and communication skills to the fullest.

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Mary Dowd holds a doctorate in educational leadership and a master’s in counseling and student affairs from Minnesota State Mankato. Helping students succeed has been her passion while serving in many areas of student affairs and adjunct teaching. Currently she is a dean of students at a large, public university. Dr. Dpwd’s writing experience includes published research, training materials and hundreds of practical online articles.

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Administrative Assistant Resume Summary with Examples

An Administrative Assistant resume summary provides a brief outline of your skills and qualifications. It shows employers and hiring managers a general overview of your capabilities, helping them to quickly decide if you’re the right candidate for the role. This article shares some examples of effective Administrative Assistant resume summaries to help you write your own resume summary.

What is a resume summary?

A resume summary is a short explanation of your skills and experience as they relate to an open role. You’ll usually add a summary at the top of your resume, right below your name and contact information. That way it’s one of the first things an employer reads. 

Resume summaries are usually two to three sentences or statements. This makes it easy for hiring managers to read quickly to decide if your skills and experience match their needs. To make your resume summary more appealing, you can tailor it for each job you apply for. 

Administrative Assistant resume summary examples 

Here are some various Administrative Assistant resume summaries based on a candidate’s experience, career focus and best qualities: 

General summary

Example: ‘Hardworking and versatile Administrative Assistant with proven organizational skills and thorough knowledge of corporate policies and procedures. Excellent communication and people skills with extensive strategic planning capabilities.’

This example showcases the applicant’s versatility and knowledge in areas essential for office management.

Intermediate summary

Example:  ‘Experienced Administrative Assistant with 5+ years of experience working in a multinational firm. Detailed knowledge of business terminologies and standard practices. Committed and passionate with a focus on professionalism.’

This summary shows the applicant’s experience in a demanding work setting. It also showcases skills that could be valuable in any office environment.

Versatile summary

Example: ‘Multifaceted Administrative Assistant with an extensive background in a variety of office administration duties. Works well in high-pressure settings with minimal supervision in both leadership and team roles. Especially effective at fielding phone calls, coordinating with clients and serving as the liaison between different branch offices.’

This example highlights the applicant’s versatility and the ability to handle multiple roles. It also details a few specific examples of skills that would be useful in any Administrative Assistant position. 

Financial experience summary

Example: ‘Capable and knowledgeable Administrative Assistant with more than five years of experience working in a financial office. Thorough working knowledge of securities and investment practices. Consistently recognized for proven capability in office administration, record keeping, preparing reports and performing customer-oriented tasks.’

This summary showcases the applicant’s knowledge in the financial industry, which is useful when applying for jobs in the same related field. 

Skills and education summary

Example: ‘Administrative Assistant with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a solid background working in different human resources firms. Well-organized and able to multitask while maintaining a high level of professionalism and attention to detail. Expert level proficiency in all MS Office applications.’

This example mentions the applicant’s educational and professional background, both of which are relevant to an Administrative Assistant position. It also details hard and soft skills that are useful for the job. 

Practical skills summary

Example: ‘Experienced Administrative Assistant with extensive knowledge in office management software. Proven office and personnel management skills, with equal ability in lead and support roles. Competencies include record keeping, document management, personnel support and report presentation.’

In this example, the applicant focuses on technical and practical skills that are helpful in any Administrative Assistant position.

Summary with professional goals

Example: ‘Business Administration graduate with drive and initiative, thorough attention to detail, with excellent time management and task prioritization skills. Seeking an Administrative Assistant position in a globally competitive firm with ample opportunity for professional growth and career advancement. Committed to performing all tasks with the highest level of professionalism and competence.’

This summary emphasizes the applicant’s desire to be a valuable member of the workforce.

Career change summary

Example: ‘Law firm secretary looking to further career by working as an Administrative Assistant. Possesses drive, ambition and an extensive skill set that includes file and document management, inventory and supplies processing, record keeping and more than five years of experience in an executive support role.’

This example showcases relevant experience, as well as potentially useful skills for Administrative Assistants. 

Essential skills summary

Example: ‘Detail-oriented and quality-focused professional with proven interpersonal and communication skills. Seeking Administrative Assistant position at Target Media where I can apply extensive experience in administrative functions. Advanced computer software knowledge, archiving and record-keeping skills and general office management capabilities.’

In this example, the applicant describes the essential skills they can bring to the organization. 

Administrative skills summary

Example:  ‘Committed Administrative Assistant with expert level proficiency in Microsoft Office and 70 wpm typing speed. Looking to secure the Administrative Assistant position at Skylar Enterprises to utilize my professional management skills and extensive clerical experience.’

This summary combines technical skills with more practical skills that are equally essential for administrative functions. 

Education-focused summary

Example:  ‘Highly-motivated and organized individual seeking to use a Bachelor’s Degree in Administration in the service of Blaze Marketing as Administrative Assistant. Solid background in office administration, with excellent multitasking, report presentation and document-keeping skills.’

This summary makes it clear that the applicant has the educational and professional background needed to excel as an Administrative Assistant.

Senior-level summary

Example: ‘Dedicated Administrative Assistant with eight years of experience in leadership roles with strong communications and interpersonal skills. Looking for new opportunities to further grow into the role of an Administrative Assistant. Certified MS Office professional with the ability to manage multiple tasks with a high level of professionalism.’

This example showcases extensive experience and explains the applicant’s goal in applying for an Administrative Assistant position. 

Industry-specific summary

Example:  ‘Dedicated and focused individual with proven capability in office administration seeks a position as an Administrative Assistant in an industrial supply firm. Knowledge in office management best practices and especially capable of handling high-volume tasks with an exceptional level of accuracy. Bringing more than five years of experience to ensure more efficient office functions and personnel performance.’

In this example, the applicant exhibits relevant skills and knowledge, as well as the ability to handle high-pressure situations. 

Career advancement summary

Example:  ‘Office Assistant with a wide range of applicable skills seeks professional growth and career advancement opportunities as an Administrative Assistant. Excellent clerical skills and the ability to oversee and manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Focused and detail-oriented with the drive and commitment to become a valuable contributing member of the Pinnacle Marketing workforce.’

With this summary, the applicant highlights the skills that are necessary for someone who wishes to advance from Office Assistant to Administrative Assistant. 

Similar background summary

Example: ‘Experienced Clerk and Secretary with proven time management and communication skills seeks position as an Administrative Assistant at a fast-paced and industry-leading firm. Competencies include advanced office management skills, ability to handle multiple tasks, inventory control and administrative support.’

This summary describes experience in similar roles. The candidate also explains transferrable skills that are useful for Administrative Assistant roles.

Top 35 Examples of an Administrative Assistant Resume Objective Statement

An objective statement is your first chance to capture the employer’s attention. Writing a powerful objective statement for your resume or CV will help you land the job as an administrative assistant. As the first part of your resume, the objective statement is vital to making a good first impression and convincing the employer to look more closely at you for the job. It is important to communicate that you understand what it takes to be an excellent administrative assistant and that you are the best applicant for the job.

Below is a selection of objectives statements for administrative assistants with a range of experience to guide you in writing a strong objective statement for your resume:

Experienced Administrative Assistant Objective Statements

• To obtain an administrative assistant position, contributing demonstrated experience in efficiently supporting teams in fast-paced environments, coordinating external and internal meetings and conference calls across multiple time zones, and maintaining contact databases.
• To undertake the role of Administrative Assistant at Parker & Stanley, applying three years’ experience in general administrative and clerical support, filing, covering reception desk, and assisting the Human Resources and Finance departments as needed.
• Versatile administrative assistant with meticulous attention to detail and organizational skills gained through over 15 years of providing superb administrative support to top-tier organizations, seeking to dedicate my experience, energy, and can-do attitude to a demanding position.
• Enthusiastic team player seeking an Administrative Assistant role at State University, bringing knowledge acquired over two years of providing administrative support in higher education and a passion for exceeding expectations.
• Excellent communicator with strong interpersonal skills is looking for an administrative assistant position in a fast-paced environment where organizational, time management and advanced Microsoft skills can be utilized to execute tasks on time, under pressure, and with excellence.
• Experienced self-starter with four years’ experience seeking Administrative Assistant position in ABC Bank, where advanced organizational skills, good judgment in confidential situations, strong interpersonal and communication skills, excellent phone etiquette and exceptional ability to manage competing priorities can be utilized to support the team.
• Seeking an administrative assistant position in a fast-paced environment to utilize extensive experience in performing general administrative duties, including clerical, organizational, and catering related tasks, bringing hardworking attitude and demonstrated integrity.
• Detail-oriented and dependable individual with four years’ experience, skilled in a range of administrative duties including transcription, document management, event organization and invoice preparation, looking to support a fast-paced team as an administrative assistant.
• Hardworking and efficient administrative assistant experienced in corporate event planning, calendar management, minute taking, and drafting a range of communications for internal and external use, seeks to add value to White Inc.’s team by bringing experience and ability to work under pressure.
• Highly qualified and proactive team player with over 10 years’ experience as an administrative assistant, bringing exceptional organizational and communication skills, and the ability to handle multiple projects at the same time to a busy team.
• Experienced administrative assistant, highly skilled in supporting global teams across time zones, arranging travel, maintaining office functions, and directing phone calls, seeks to join an international company in a demanding role to utilize ability to work well under pressure and contribute to the smooth operation of the team.
• To serve as an Administrative Assistant at Medical General, coming with expertise in performing a variety of medical office support functions with detailed focus and accuracy, ranging from receptionist duties to managing patient records while maintaining confidentiality.
• Friendly and detail-oriented problem solver seeking an administrative assistant position, bringing seven years’ experience providing efficient calendar coordination, event planning, and expense tracking, among other clerical tasks.
• Highly motivated and well-organized administrative assistant with six months of experience on a temp basis, seeking permanent position where English/Spanish bilingual skills, strong administrative and clerical skills, knowledge of Microsoft Office products, and ability to work independently can be utilized for the benefit of the company.
• Very presentable and well-organized team player looking to support and anticipate needs of fast-paced team with multitasking and project management skills as well as ability to take ownership of complex communication processes as an administrative assistant, leveraging fours years’ experience.
• Highly professional and experienced executive administrative assistant with 15 years’ experience, bringing sense of urgency, exceptional communication and computer skills, highest integrity, and the ability to get along well with all levels throughout the organization.

Entry-Level Administrative Assistant Objective Statements

• Recent college graduate (GPA: 3.4) seeking an administrative assistant role to utilize organizational capabilities, proficiency in Microsoft software, 70 wpm typing, and ability to multi-task, working in a professional environment.
• Seeking the position of Administrative Assistant at Smith Corporation to support a busy team through leveraging organizational and problem-solving skills, as well as a proactive approach to anticipating the needs of managers.
• Newly graduated, responsible and polished high school student (GPA: 3.1), seeking to develop and refine my administrative and clerical abilities, bringing excellent verbal and written communication skills, exceptional computer skills, high energy, and attention to detail.
• Poised and detail-oriented professional looking for an administrative assistant position where strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office programs, excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills, sense of urgency and ability to multitask can be utilized to anticipate the needs of a team.
• Self-motivated and driven team player looking for the position of Administrative Assistant with Peterson Architects to apply organizational, communication, and coordination skills to a fast-paced role.
• Senior-year self-starter at State University (current GPA: 3.2), seeking to provide high-quality support as an administrative assistant, bringing exceptional computer skills, devoted focus, and strong desire to continually improve and add value to a team.
• Responsible and reliable individual looking for an administrative assistant position, bringing a strong work ethic, eagerness to learn, organizational skills, and computer mastery, seeking to support a busy team.
• Detailed-oriented high-energy professional seeking an administrative assistant position to dedicate exceptional computer skills, multi-tasking ability and organizational capabilities to support a team and work under pressure to meet deadlines with excellence.
• To secure an administrative assistant position where my commitment to customer satisfaction and superior organizational capabilities are utilized, bringing time management, problem-solving and multi-tasking skills to supporting a team.
• Highly organized and reliable go-getter seeking an administrative assistant position to support an active team, when needed and how needed, coming with proactive problem-solving capabilities, attention to detail and a passion for organization.
• Seeking the position of an administrative assistant, bringing extensive computer and technology ability, excellent written and verbal communication skills, multi-tasking capabilities, 75 wpm typing, a great telephone presence, and a hardworking can-do attitude.
• Team player looking for an Administrative Assistant position at XYZ Company where exceptional organization, communication, and computer skills will quickly add value and contribute to the smooth functioning of the office environment.
• Eager and proactive recent high school graduate (GPA: 3.8) seeking employment as an administrative assistant, coming with can-do attitude and high energy, looking to utilize organizational and computer skills to get up to speed quickly and add value to the organization.
• Self-starter with relentless attention to detail and a commitment to continuous improvement seeking administrative assistant role in the healthcare industry where ability for solving complex problems and executing tasks with excellence can be used to make the company operate more smoothly.
• Recent high school graduate looking to secure administrative assistant role within Smith Independent School District where effective communication skills, ability to form genuine human relationships with nearly everyone, and excellent computer and word processing skills can be utilized to support teachers and school staff.
• Diligent and proactive team player with unbeatable work ethic seeking administrative assistant role, bringing professional appearance, excellent time management and organizational skills, 60+ wpm, and exceptional verbal and written communication skills to anticipate the needs of and add value to the team.

Career Change Administrative Assistant Objective Statements 

• Adaptable data entry clerk seeking to transition into the role of an administrative assistant in a fast-paced office, coming with over 10 years’ experience in detail-oriented data entry (90 wpm), unparalleled accuracy, a professional phone presence, and the ability to thrive under pressure.
• Seeking to change careers and secure the position of Administrative Assistant at F&M Partners, bringing significant experience as a copyrighter, demonstrating exceptional written and verbal communication skills, an aptitude for drafting, and a passion for supporting superiors in a challenging and fast-paced environment.
• To serve as an Administrative Assistant at Jones Consulting, bringing two years’ experience as a case clerk supporting lawyers in a high-pressure environment, experience with a wide variety of professional software, and 24/7 availability.

Now that you have seen a variety of sample objective statements make sure you carefully read the requirements for the job posting. Try to capture the most important job requirements in your objective statement. It is best if you can write your objective statement, then put it away for a day or two, then pull it out and proof it. By letting it sit for a couple of days, you will catch more errors, and it is critical that your objective statement is free from errors. If you have a friend who can look at it, that is another good option. Good luck!

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The Perfect Administrative Assistant CV Example [+ 2024 Guide]

Are you looking to write your perfect Administrative Assistant CV?

Administrative assistants play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency of an organisation, handling a wide range of administrative tasks.

Crafting a well-structured CV is essential for showcasing your qualifications, experience and achievements.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide, valuable tips and examples to help you create a targeted, interview-winning CV.

Let’s begin!

• Administrative assistant CV example
• Download CV template (Word format)

How to format your CV

• How to write a perfect CV (a step-by-step guide)
• Personal profile statement example
• Duties to add to your CV
• Useful skills to add to your CV
• Tips on making your CV more effective

Joseph Watkins

I am a hard-working, motivated and enthusiastic Administrative Assistant with a proven track record in business administration and project management. I always strive to achieve the highest standard possible, at any given task and in any situation. I am accustomed to working in a challenging and fast-paced environment, particularly when dealing with multiple projects and priorities at the same time.

• Achieved the highest Distinction grade in Business Administration studies
• Employee of the Month (February 2011, ICC Accounting)

Relevant Modules:

• Manage own performance in a business environment
• Work responsibilities
• Events, meetings and activities
• Support sustainability in a business environment
• Manage information and data
• Information technology (IT)
• Leadership and management
• Handling problems and operational issues

Main duties performed:

• Giving full administrative and secretarial support to the Officer Manager
• Drafting formal letters using Microsoft Word
• Deal with enquiries from all staff, students and visitors in a courteous and professional manner (face-to-face, over the phone and through email)
• Using Microsoft Excel to record student performance in spreadsheets
• Proofreading content to be published in publications and online
• Printing, photocopying, laminating, binding, labelling and filing of documents
• Inviting guests to attend University Open Days and special events
• Ensuring the office is tidy and organised at all times
• Handling post and deliveries
• Taking messages and dealing with enquiries/concerns at all levels
• Ensuring data is backed up at the end of every working day
• Liaising with suppliers to order stationary and other office equipment
• Provide effective administrative support to the Data Manager
• Act as the first point of contact for all staff, customers and members of the public
• General Administrative duties (printing, photocopying, filing, etc)
• Arrange meetings between stakeholders
• Dealing with telephone calls/queries in a professional manner
• Maintaining accurate records of visitors and client activities
• Effectively liaising matters with internal and external stakeholders such as staff, clients, suppliers, VIPS, Press, etc.
• Level 2 ECDL – BCS
• Level 2 First Aid at the Workplace – HSE
• Level 2 IT Users Certificate – CLAiT Plus
• Level 1 Award in Personal Safety Awareness – NCFE
• Outstanding interpersonal and communication skills at all levels
• Professional typing skills (65 words per second with 98% accuracy)
• Excellent IT Skills (Microsoft Office package)
• Outstanding Telephone manners
• The ability to multitask and prioritise/organise work with high efficiency

In my spare time, I enjoy reading and going to the cinema, and I love spending time with family and friends over the weekend. I have a major interest in computing, and I regularly go to the gym to keep myself active and healthy.

What makes this CV good and effective?

• The personal profile is a well-crafted, brief statement that highlights the candidate’s key skills and passion for administrative work. It sets a positive tone and provides a snapshot of the candidate’s suitability for the role. It’s not too long or too short, just the right length for it to be interesting and impactful.
• The CV is organised in a clear and easy-to-read format , with headings clearly marking the different sections of the CV. Bullet points and short sentences are used effectively to present information in a concise and readable manner. The applicant has also effectively used white space (the space around the text) to ensure that the CV is visually appealing and not text-dense or unreadable.
• The candidate has included all their relevant qualifications and work experience , giving detailed breakdowns of what they studied or did in jobs. This makes it easier for the employer to determine their suitability for the job, improving their chances of being shortlisted for interviews.
• The CV is a suitable length , not exceeding two pages . It provides enough detail to showcase the candidate’s strengths and abilities without overwhelming the reader and becoming unreadable.

Download CV template

• Save time and effort
• Guaranteed correct CV structure
• Word document (.docx) format
• Fully customizable

How to save your CV as a PDF document:

• Click on File > Save As > Select “PDF” from the drop-down menu.
• Utilise a clean and professional layout: Choose a clean, easy-to-read font like Arial or Calibri and maintain consistent formatting throughout your CV. Ensure that the document is well-organised with clear headings. You don’t need to go overboard with fancy layouts and designs; let the content of your document do the impressing.
• Use clear subheadings: If required, employ clear and concise subheadings for different sections of your CV. For instance, under ‘Work Experience,’ you might use subheadings like ‘Administrative Support’ and ‘Office Management’ to further organise your content. Using subheadings to organise information is particularly recommended if you have substantial work experience.
• Incorporate bullet points: A CV is not an essay or thesis; there is no need to use long sentences or big paragraphs. Use simple bullet points to present information in a concise and scannable manner. For example, when listing job responsibilities, use bullet points to make them easily readable, e.g. “Managed executive calendars” and “Coordinated office events and meetings.”
• Emphasise achievements: Employers love to see achievements on a candidate’s CV because it demonstrates to them that the candidate is an achiever who can do things to a high standard. Therefore, when listing your job responsibilities, focus on your achievements. Use quantifiable results, such as: “Increased office efficiency by 20% through streamlined processes.” and, “Successfully managed a database of 500+ clients.”

How to write an Administrative Assistant CV

Personal information.

The personal information section of your CV contains some essential personal details that employers use to contact you about your job application.

Make sure the details are accurate and up-to-date.

Read more: What personal details to include (and not include) on a CV .

• Sophie Brown
• 567 Ivy Lane, Cardiff, WO4 DO2
• Mob: 345-678-9012       Email: [email protected]

Personal profile

The personal profile on your CV is like your introduction to potential employers.

It’s a brief paragraph where you share who you are as a professional, what skills and experiences make you a great fit for the job and your career goals.

This section is crucial because it’s the first thing employers read, so it’s your chance to make a strong first impression.

Read more: Personal qualities to add to a CV .

Administrative assistant personal profile example:

Experienced Administrative Assistant with a proven track record of efficiently managing office operations and supporting executive teams. Proficient in coordinating schedules, organising meetings and enhancing office productivity. Implemented streamlined filing systems, resulting in a 20% increase in data accessibility and accuracy. Seeking to bring my expertise to a dynamic administrative role.

Accomplishments

The accomplishments section in your CV is like your highlight reel. It’s where you show off the awesome things you’ve done in your previous jobs or academic life.

You should include things like awards you’ve won, promotions you’ve earned, specific projects you’ve excelled in or any other accomplishments that make you stand out.

This section helps you prove that you’re not just doing the job but excelling at it, making you a great catch for potential employers. So, make sure to brag a little about your successes here!

• Graduated with honours in Business Administration.
• Served as a class representative, fostering student-teacher communication.
• Achieved a 98% accuracy rate in data entry, maintaining data integrity.
• Implemented a digital document management system, enhancing data accessibility and reducing paper usage.
• Balanced a part-time job while excelling academically, demonstrating strong time management skills.
• Created and maintained a personal blog with 1,000 monthly readers, showcasing my writing and organisational skills.

Employment history and work experience

When crafting the employment section of your CV, your primary goal is to effectively present your work history. Begin with your most recent job and work your way backwards in chronological order.

Each job entry should feature your job title, the company name and your employment dates. Utilise bullet points to succinctly outline your main duties and accomplishments, emphasising your unique contributions and the value you brought to each role.

Employers consider this the most important part of your CV so make sure it’s perfect!

Main duties and responsibilities performed:

• Managed executive calendars, coordinating appointments and meetings, ensuring optimal time management.
• Streamlined office filing systems, enhancing data accessibility and retrieval efficiency.
• Coordinated corporate events, including logistics, scheduling and communication with stakeholders.
• Achievements: Successfully implemented a digital document management system, reducing paper usage by 40% and improving data accessibility.

Administrative assistant duties to add to your CV

• Efficiently manage and maintain executive calendars, scheduling appointments and meetings.
• Coordinate and oversee office events, including conferences, workshops and seminars.
• Handle phone calls, emails and inquiries, providing professional and friendly assistance to clients and colleagues.
• Create and maintain well-organised filing systems for easy document retrieval.
• Prepare reports, presentations and correspondence using Microsoft Office or other relevant software.
• Assist in managing office supplies and inventory, ensuring efficient office operations.
• Draft and proofread documents, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail.

In this section of your CV, you should list your formal education and qualifications such as degrees, A-levels, diplomas and GCSEs.

For each qualification, you need to include the university or institution’s name, the dates you attended, the type of qualification obtained (e.g., Bachelor of Science, A-levels, etc.), and any relevant honours or special achievements, such as academic awards or distinctions.

Note: If you have substantial work experience or high-level qualifications, you don’t need to include details of school-level qualifications.

Subjects studied:

• Business Management
• Marketing Strategies
• Financial Accounting
• Organisational Psychology

Professional training & qualifications

In this section, you should include your professional qualifications, training and any vocational certifications.

Format it similarly to your education section, listing the qualifications, training courses and institutions.

• Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Customer Service – The Open University
• Advanced Microsoft Office Training – ABC Training Institute
• Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) – Administrative Certification Board
• Diploma in Office Management – Elite Business School
• Typing Speed Certification (75 WPM) – Typing Academy UK

Skills and abilities

The skills section of your CV is where you list the abilities, qualities and competencies that make you a strong candidate for the job, showcasing what you can bring to the table.

Examples of the skills you could add here include time management, strong communication, data entry accuracy, and organisation abilities. If you are skilled in using specialised software or tools relevant to administrative roles (e.g., Microsoft Outlook for scheduling or Trello for task management), explicitly mention them.

All of these skills are essential for the role of an admin assistant.

• Microsoft Office proficiency: Proficient in Word, Excel and PowerPoint, with experience in creating professional reports and presentations that streamlined company communication.
• Time management: Effectively managed executive schedules, ensuring punctual and efficient coordination of appointments and meetings.

Useful admin assistant skills to add to your CV

• Time management: Efficiently juggle multiple tasks, appointments and deadlines.
• Organisation: Efficiently manage files, documents and office supplies.
• Strong communication: Effective written and verbal communication with colleagues and clients.
• Data entry accuracy: Ensuring precision in data input and record-keeping.
• Customer service: Provide a high level of service to clients and visitors.
• Calendar management: Effectively schedule and coordinate appointments and meetings.
• Attention to detail: Maintain high accuracy in document preparation and record-keeping.
• Event planning: Coordinate meetings and office events.
• Email management: Efficiently sort, respond to and organise email correspondence.
• Telephone etiquette: Communicate professionally and assist callers effectively.
• Inventory management: Monitor and order office supplies as needed.

Hobbies and interests (optional)

The hobbies and interests section of your CV provides a glimpse into your personality and shows that you’re a well-rounded individual who can align with the values or culture of the company you’re applying to.

Include hobbies like volunteering, team sports or creative pursuits, which highlight qualities such as teamwork, dedication and creativity, making you a more appealing candidate.

The best hobbies to include are those that are relevant to the job.

Professional references

The references section of your CV typically contains contact information for individuals who can vouch for your professional qualifications and character, such as former teachers, employers or colleagues.

The references section of your CV is optional and you can choose to include it or not.

If you decide to include it, you should provide the names, titles and contact information of individuals who have agreed to serve as references and can speak positively about you to employers.

If you choose not to include your references on your CV, you can simply write “References available upon request.” This allows you to provide references when requested by the employer during the later stages of the application process while keeping your CV more concise and focused on your qualifications and experience.

Tips to make your CV more effective

• Start with a strong opening: Start with a compelling personal profile statement that highlights your dedication to supporting executives, managing schedules and ensuring office operations run smoothly.
• Highlight relevant experience: Focus on previous administrative roles, highlighting responsibilities like managing calendars, arranging travel and preparing reports. The more relevant work experience you have, the greater your chances of being shortlisted for a job interview.
• Highlight multitasking abilities: Showcase your ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, which is crucial for an administrative assistant. For instance: “Proficient in managing phone calls, emails and appointment schedules concurrently.”
• Demonstrate your tech proficiency Mention your proficiency in office software, database management, and any specialised tools, like CRM systems or project management software.
• Give examples of problem-solving: State instances where you successfully resolved office-related challenges, such as scheduling conflicts or equipment issues. You can further expand on these instances in your cover letter.

This is the end of our guide on how to write a compelling Administrative Assistant CV, complete with examples and expert tips.

We hope this comprehensive resource has provided you with the tools you need to create the perfect CV for your administrative career that will land you your dream job.

Good luck with your job hunt!

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Office Administrator Cover Letter Examples

Use these Office Administrator cover letter examples to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Office administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operations of an office. They manage schedules, answer phones, file documents, and handle other administrative tasks.

To get the job, you need a well-written cover letter that showcases your skills and experience. Use these examples to write an office administrator cover letter that stands out.

Formal/Professional Writing Style Example

With over five years of experience in office administration and a strong background in managing financial and administrative tasks, I am confident in my ability to make a significant and valuable contribution to your team. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, which has equipped me with the necessary skills to excel in a fast-paced work environment.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated exceptional proficiency in ensuring office processes run smoothly and efficiently. My experience includes budgeting and financial reporting, payroll administration, inventory management, and coordinating office activities. I am also well-versed in the latest admin tools and software, such as Microsoft Office Suite and QuickBooks. My attention to detail, ability to multitask and prioritize tasks, and commitment to meeting deadlines have earned me recognition in my previous roles as a reliable and proactive team member.

I am confident that my strong communication and interpersonal skills would help me to build effective relationships with colleagues and suppliers, ultimately contributing to the overall success and growth of your organization. In addition, my experience in customer service has honed my problem-solving skills, allowing me to address issues tactfully and diplomatically when they arise.

As a highly motivated and driven professional, I am eager to bring my dedication and expertise to a reputable organization. Your company’s longstanding reputation for excellence and growth has prompted me to pursue this opportunity, and I am excited to become a part of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my suitability for the Office Administrator position during an interview. Please find my resume attached for your perusal.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Entry-Level Writing Style Example

As a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from XYZ University, I am eager to put my skills and knowledge to use in an administrative role. I am confident that my strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and passion for customer service make me an ideal candidate for the Office Administrator position at your company.

During my time at university, I had the opportunity to work as an intern in the Finance department of a medium-sized company. This experience provided me with valuable insights into effective office administration and allowed me to develop and hone essential transferable skills such as time management, multitasking, and problem-solving. In addition, my academic studies have given me a solid foundation in business processes, data analysis, and financial management.

Furthermore, my part-time employment in customer service roles has enabled me to develop excellent communication and interpersonal skills. I am adept at handling a wide range of customer inquiries and concerns, and I pride myself in maintaining professionalism and efficiency under pressure.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your company’s success as an Office Administrator and believe that my background and capabilities make me a strong fit for this role. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications in an interview.

Thank you for considering my application for this position. I am eager to contribute my talents and make a positive impact at your esteemed organization.

Networking/Referral Writing Style Example

I was referred to this opportunity by Jane Smith, a current employee at your company, and I believe my professional background and skillset make me a strong candidate for this role.

Jane and I have worked closely together at XYZ Corporation for the past two years, and she has always praised my attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to multitask. She also mentioned that your company values attention to detail and excellent time management skills, which are two areas where I excel. Jane has shared with me the positive work environment and the strong support system in your company, and I am truly excited about the prospect of contributing to and growing within such a setting.

During my tenure at XYZ Corporation, I managed a variety of administrative tasks, such as scheduling meetings, organizing office events, and maintaining efficient filing systems. In addition, I’ve cultivated strong relationships with team members and clients and demonstrated my ability to work well under pressure.

I am confident that my proven track record of professional experience and interpersonal skills make me an ideal candidate for the Office Administrator role at your company. I am excited about leveraging my expertise to contribute to the success of your team and ensuring smooth operations in your office. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Thank you for considering my application.

Enthusiastic/Passionate Writing Style Example

From the moment I came across this opportunity, I knew that this is the perfect fit for me, as I have always admired your company’s dedication to innovation and growth. Being a part of such a driven and thriving team is incredibly motivating, and I am sure that my skills and experience align with your expectations for the ideal candidate.

My background in office administration, along with my adaptability, strong work ethic, and eagerness to learn, have molded me into an asset in any office environment. Having worked in dynamic administrative roles throughout the past five years, I have honed skills like multitasking, organization, attention to detail, and clear communication. I take pride in my ability to keep operations running smoothly and efficiently, always exhibiting my resourcefulness and problem-solving capabilities.

During my previous role as an Office Administrator in a fast-paced tech start-up, I led the charge in optimizing communication and internal processes, reducing errors by 25% and increasing overall productivity. I believe that my proven track record of supporting teams to success, as well as my steadfast resolve to go above and beyond, will be a valuable addition to your already-impressive company culture.

I am eager to contribute my passion, enthusiasm, and commitment to your organization, knowing that we will together reach new heights. Thank you for considering my application. I am excited at the prospect of joining your team and am confident that my passion for excellence will feed into the growth and continued success of your company.

Problem-Solving Writing Style Example

As a highly organized and efficient individual, I have been closely following your company’s accomplishments and growth, and I have identified some challenges in the areas of time management and operational efficiency that I believe I can contribute to solving by joining your team as the Office Administrator.

In today’s fast-paced world, ensuring that tasks are executed promptly and accurately is of the utmost importance. My extensive experience in administrative roles, along with my strong planning and multi-tasking skills, will allow me to take on the responsibilities of coordinating and overseeing the office’s daily activities while ensuring optimal performance. I am confident that my impeccable organizational skills and attention to detail will not only mitigate any challenges but also streamline processes, saving both time and resources.

Additionally, I understand that communication is a key aspect in the successful execution of any project. Therefore, I am committed to establishing and maintaining exceptional communication channels between departments, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and issues are resolved swiftly. As a result, the company’s overall productivity will be positively impacted.

With over five years of hands-on experience in office administration and a proven track record of implementing time-saving solutions, I believe that I am the perfect fit for your team. I am excited to contribute to your ongoing success and address the challenges your company may face head-on.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss my qualifications and how my expertise can benefit your company. Please do not hesitate to contact me to set up an interview at your earliest convenience.

Storytelling/Narrative Writing Style Example

As I sat in the waiting room of my dentist’s office, clutching a stack of patient intake forms, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. It was in this very office, just a few years ago, that I discovered my passion for organization and efficiency that makes me the perfect candidate for this role.

The office was once a chaotic mess, with disorganized paperwork, unanswered phone calls, and frustrated patients. I had recently graduated with a degree in Business Administration and found myself in need of a job, so I offered to help turn things around. The dentist, a family friend, was initially skeptical, but he agreed to give me a chance.

I started by revamping the filing system, introducing color-coding and a digital backup. I then implemented an online scheduling system, which eliminated double bookings and reduced wait times. With my natural ability to communicate, I built rapport with patients and handled their concerns with empathy and patience. Within just a few months, the office was running like a well-oiled machine, and I knew I had found my calling.

With over five years of experience in administrative positions, I am confident in my ability to excel as your Office Administrator. I bring a strong work ethic, excellent organizational skills, and a genuine passion for helping others. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the success of your team and would be honored to be a part of your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further and demonstrate how my unique background can contribute to your company’s success.

Business Development Manager Cover Letter Examples

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Administration Personal Statement

Example Administration Personal Statement

In my current role as Administrative Assistant within the Marketing and Communications Department at the iCoCo Research Institute, I have gained a great deal of experience within Higher Education administration in general and within the University of Coventry specifically. I would relish the opportunity to build upon this experience in a new, challenging role.

In my current position I have responsibility for ensuring the maintenance of effective, professional relationships with colleagues, students and clients; dealing with telephone and e-mail enquiries; and assisting with conferences, meetings and events. In addition to these duties, I am also responsible for the clear presentation of web-based research, updating and uploading website content and maintaining client databases. As such, I am well versed in all of the core administrative procedures related to Higher Education and the University of Coventry, as well as use of the relevant IT packages.

As my CV demonstrates, I have worked with ambition and dedication to gain the relevant experience to ensure that I can perform to the best of my abilities within each role I have undertaken. Consistently pursuing a developing career in university administration from Receptionist to Admin Assistant, I have the proven ability to develop new skills quickly and efficiently when required and the drive and determination to push myself to perform to the best of my abilities.

In addition, my previous experience within customer service roles has imbued me with effective verbal and written communication skills, alongside experience of staff supervision, to ensure that I am equally comfortable in a leadership role, or offering support within a larger team. During my time as Shift Run Manager at McDonald’s, for example, I was jointly responsible for maintaining standards of customer service and ensuring employee well being. This experience offered an excellent opportunity to take on extra responsibility as my career with the company progressed and it is this proactive attitude that I have applied to all subsequent positions.

Building on a consistent performance at school, I have also shown the ability to complete written work to a high standard, within strict timescales. Having pursued subjects that foreground language and communication skills to A-Level and beyond, I have found it possible to translate this academic experience into valuable employment skills in my current position. Regularly tasked with undertaking and presenting research or writing website copy, I pride myself on offering the appropriate level of clear, concise information to ensure that the department continues to run smoothly.

In summary, my career in Higher Education administration thus far has proven that I am driven to succeed, consistently gaining new skills and taking on extra responsibility with each new position. While my specific experience within the University of Coventry obviously marks me out as a strong candidate for this role, I believe that it is my fundamental ambition, dedication and meticulous attention to detail that will ensure that I continue progressing professionally and pushing myself to perform to the same high standard in the more challenging role.

We hope that this example Administration personal statement shows you relevant content and structure to help write your own personal statement .

For help with applications, please visit Personal Statement Service .

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Administrator CV examples and template

If you are hoping to land an administrator job, or similar office support position, it’s vital that you have an effective CV.

An administrator CV that stands out from the crowd, and highlights your most in-demand skills will attract recruiters and win plenty of interviews for you.

This guide along with 4 administrator CV examples, will teach you everything you need to know about writing a winning CV and securing top admin roles.

CV templates 

Administrator CV example

Sales administrator CV example

Contract administrator CV example

HR administrator CV example

The above CV is a good example of an experienced administrator who has worked in a range of office support roles across numerous firms.

It should give you a good steer on how your CV might end up looking, but the following guide will walk you through step-by-step, the process of writing your own admin CV ( curriculum vitae ).

Admin CV structure

Before you start writing your CV , you will need to plan how you will layout the information and style the document. This stage is very important because the structure and format of the document will help you to create a pleasant reading experience for recruiters, and give you a professional first impression.

This infographic shows you what sections are needed in your CV, how they should be ordered, and some tips on styling.

Formatting tips

• Try to keep your CV to around 2 pages in length – it’s just the right length to get enough information across without boring readers.
• Keep the style simple with a clear crisp font , and modest colour scheme – there’s no need to over-complicate your CV.
• Divide sections with bold headings and borders to allow recruiters to navigate your CV quickly.
• Break text up for easy reading, and don’t add images or logos – they will distract from the all-important content.

Structuring your admin CV

Once you have your CV well-formatted, the following sections need to be included in order:

• Contact details – Add these at the very top of your CV… You don’t want them to be missed
• Profile – An introductory paragraph to reel recruiters in and summarise your skills
• Work experience / career history – List your work experience in reverse chronological order
• Education – Academic record and qualifications
• Interest and hobbies – Optional section

Now that you understand how your CV should be structured, I will take you through the sections in detail, and show you how to write each one.

CV contact details

At the very top of your CV, list your name and contact details so that recruiters can contact you easily.

Quick tip: Reduce the top page margin to push these details right to the top of the page, and create more space for the body of your CV.

The only contact details your CV needs are:

• Telephone number
• Email address (use a professional sounding address – no nicknames)
• Maybe a link to your LinkedIn profile if you have one

These are the only contact details required – there is no need to include your full address, date of birth, marital status etc. They are not required at such an early stage in the application process, and you shouldn’t circulate too much personal information online for security purposes.

Administrator CV profile

The top of your CV plays a very important role, because it is the first thing a recruiter will see upon opening the document, and you only have a few seconds to get their attention.

To ensure you make an instant good impression, head your CV up with a punchy profile that provides a rounded summary of your skills, and ensures people will commit time to reading your CV in full.

Your profile (sometimes called a personal statement by junior candidates) should be an introductory paragraph of about 5-10 lines.

These are the keys to creating a strong CV profile:

• Keep it short and sharp, you only have a few seconds to get your message across
• Tailor it towards your target roles by researching the core candidate requirements before you start writing
• Avoid generic clichés like “hardworking team player” – they are overused and don’t tell readers anything factual about you

Quick tip:  If you worry that your spelling and grammar might not be correct, try using our quick-and-easy CV Builder  to eliminate the risk of making mistakes.

This is an example of a good admin CV profile.

You can see more CV profile examples here .

As an administrator, these are the types of content that should be going into your profile:

Where you have worked – What types of organisation have you worked for? Large corporate firms? Small high street offices? If you have no work experience, you can always draw on school or university experience.

Qualifications – IT, maths and English qualifications can be important in admin work, as can vocational administrative qualifications

Essential admin skills – Although every administration role will be unique, there are certain skills that are likely to be required in all of them. Skills such as data entry /management, reporting, typing, filing, diary management etc.

Types of people you support – Who have you supported in previous roles? Head of departments? Global directors? Large teams?

System/software knowledge – Many admin roles will require the use of common systems and software such as Outlook and Microsoft Excel .

Boost your profile with a core skills section

To create an even bigger impact at the top of your CV, add a core skills section underneath your profile.

The core skills section is a series of bullet points split over 2 or 3 columns which highlight your most valuable skills and knowledge for admin roles.

The effect this section has, is that it allows readers to gain a good overview of your suitability, from just a quick glance at the CV – great for ensuring recruiters notice you.

Your work experience

Once you’ve given recruiters an overview of your abilities with the top of your CV, it’s time to start detailing your career history to give them some more in-depth insight into what you can do.

( If you have no direct work experience , don’t worry – you can write about any other experiences that could be relevant like school/university projects, personal projects, school work placements, voluntary work, or anything you can draw relevant skills from )

List your work experience in reverse chronological order (latest to oldest) because employers will be more interested in your recent work to assess your current capabilities.

As you move down your CV, you can shorten older roles because they won’t receive as much scrutiny from recruiters or employers.

Structuring your roles

It’s important that you structure your role descriptions in a way that is easy for recruiters to read, and allows them to gain a quick understanding of your work and impact.

Don’t make the mistake of writing your roles as big unbroken chunks of text, they are a reader’s worst nightmare.

Instead, use a structure like the one below to create a pleasant reading experience for everyone.

Here’s how you should populate each section of your administrative roles:

Build context for recruiters by providing an overview of the company you work for, where you fit within the organisation for and a brief summary of the role.

“Working within business support team for global publishing business, providing administrative support to a number of busy teams and managing 2 assistants ”

Key responsibilities

List the responsibilities within your role in short bullet points, and demonstrate as many important skills as possible – showing who you interact with, and how your actions benefit your employer.

• Acts as first point of contact for email, telephone and in-person enquiries, responding professionally and providing information, referring on as appropriate
• Coordinating meetings, compiling agendas, taking minutes and distributing documents

Key achievements

To prove the impact you make in the workplace, finish the role with some achievements that have had a big positive impact on the business.

• Introduced new file storage system which allowed managers to access documents with more speed and accuracy
• Resolved all data queries within 24 hour time period, reducing wait time by an average of 50%

See our best CV templates  and Word CV template for more examples of role structures.

Add your full education towards the bottom of your CV, listing GCSE’s, A-levels, degree and any vocational qualifications.

Don’t forget that if you have any qualifications that are highly relevant to the admin roles you are applying for, you should also mention them at the top of your CV in the profile.

Hobbies and interests

It’s up to you whether you include your hobbies and interests in your CV or not – They won’t usually make a big difference in any hiring decisions (good or bad)

If you have any interests that are somehow related to the roles you are applying for, then it could be worth mentioning them.

Common interests such as watching TV or eating out , aren’t worth mentioning.

Essential skills for your admin CV

Although there are many different types of administrative roles, the following skills tend to appear frequently in the candidate requirements for admin staff.

Business/office support – Most administrative roles revolve around the support of senior figures in the business or the office as a whole. Your CV should contain examples of who you support, and how your input helps the business to run smoothly.

Data entry and management – Admin often requires staff to deal with large volumes of data , ensuring that it is properly stored, processed and distributed. Highlight your ability to handle business-critical data and any tools or systems used in the process.

Document preparation – Preparing letters, emails, reports and other important business documents is an essential part of administration.

Communications – Communicating with colleagues to provide updates and information is a valuable skill for any administrator.

Microsoft Office – In most workplaces across the globe, Microsoft Office is the go-to business tool suite. Your CV must demonstrate your abilities with Word, PowerPoint, Excel, PDF and any other widely used programmes.

Writing your admin CV – conclusion

Creating a strong administrator CV requires a blend of effective structure and impressive content.

If you are able to catch recruiters’ attention with a punchy profile, and prove the impact you make with well written role descriptions, you should certainly be able to land interviews for admin roles.

Remember that research and relevance is the key to a good CV. So research your target roles before you start writing and pack your CV with your skills that closely match the job requirements.

Good luck with the job search.

You can also check out our receptionist CV exampl e or find more CV writing tips across our blog.

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• How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples

How to Write Your Personal Statement | Strategies & Examples

Published on February 12, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 3, 2023.

A personal statement is a short essay of around 500–1,000 words, in which you tell a compelling story about who you are, what drives you, and why you’re applying.

To write a successful personal statement for a graduate school application , don’t just summarize your experience; instead, craft a focused narrative in your own voice. Aim to demonstrate three things:

• Your personality: what are your interests, values, and motivations?
• Your talents: what can you bring to the program?
• Your goals: what do you hope the program will do for you?

This article guides you through some winning strategies to build a strong, well-structured personal statement for a master’s or PhD application. You can download the full examples below.

Urban Planning Psychology History

Table of contents

Getting started with your personal statement, the introduction: start with an attention-grabbing opening, the main body: craft your narrative, the conclusion: look ahead, revising, editing, and proofreading your personal statement, frequently asked questions, other interesting articles.

Before you start writing, the first step is to understand exactly what’s expected of you. If the application gives you a question or prompt for your personal statement, the most important thing is to respond to it directly.

For example, you might be asked to focus on the development of your personal identity; challenges you have faced in your life; or your career motivations. This will shape your focus and emphasis—but you still need to find your own unique approach to answering it.

There’s no universal template for a personal statement; it’s your chance to be creative and let your own voice shine through. But there are strategies you can use to build a compelling, well-structured story.

The first paragraph of your personal statement should set the tone and lead smoothly into the story you want to tell.

Strategy 1: Open with a concrete scene

An effective way to catch the reader’s attention is to set up a scene that illustrates something about your character and interests. If you’re stuck, try thinking about:

• A personal experience that changed your perspective
• A story from your family’s history
• A memorable teacher or learning experience
• An unusual or unexpected encounter

To write an effective scene, try to go beyond straightforward description; start with an intriguing sentence that pulls the reader in, and give concrete details to create a convincing atmosphere.

Strategy 2: Open with your motivations

To emphasize your enthusiasm and commitment, you can start by explaining your interest in the subject you want to study or the career path you want to follow.

Just stating that it interests you isn’t enough: first, you need to figure out why you’re interested in this field:

• Is it a longstanding passion or a recent discovery?
• Does it come naturally or have you had to work hard at it?
• How does it fit into the rest of your life?
• What do you think it contributes to society?

Tips for the introduction

• Don’t start on a cliche: avoid phrases like “Ever since I was a child…” or “For as long as I can remember…”
• Do save the introduction for last. If you’re struggling to come up with a strong opening, leave it aside, and note down any interesting ideas that occur to you as you write the rest of the personal statement.

Once you’ve set up the main themes of your personal statement, you’ll delve into more detail about your experiences and motivations.

To structure the body of your personal statement, there are various strategies you can use.

Strategy 1: Describe your development over time

One of the simplest strategies is to give a chronological overview of key experiences that have led you to apply for graduate school.

• What first sparked your interest in the field?
• Which classes, assignments, classmates, internships, or other activities helped you develop your knowledge and skills?
• Where do you want to go next? How does this program fit into your future plans?

Don’t try to include absolutely everything you’ve done—pick out highlights that are relevant to your application. Aim to craft a compelling narrative that shows how you’ve changed and actively developed yourself.

My interest in psychology was first sparked early in my high school career. Though somewhat scientifically inclined, I found that what interested me most was not the equations we learned about in physics and chemistry, but the motivations and perceptions of my fellow students, and the subtle social dynamics that I observed inside and outside the classroom. I wanted to learn how our identities, beliefs, and behaviours are shaped through our interactions with others, so I decided to major in Social Psychology. My undergraduate studies deepened my understanding of, and fascination with, the interplay between an individual mind and its social context.During my studies, I acquired a solid foundation of knowledge about concepts like social influence and group dynamics, but I also took classes on various topics not strictly related to my major. I was particularly interested in how other fields intersect with psychology—the classes I took on media studies, biology, and literature all enhanced my understanding of psychological concepts by providing different lenses through which to look at the issues involved.

Strategy 2: Own your challenges and obstacles

If your path to graduate school hasn’t been easy or straightforward, you can turn this into a strength, and structure your personal statement as a story of overcoming obstacles.

• Is your social, cultural or economic background underrepresented in the field? Show how your experiences will contribute a unique perspective.
• Do you have gaps in your resume or lower-than-ideal grades? Explain the challenges you faced and how you dealt with them.

Don’t focus too heavily on negatives, but use them to highlight your positive qualities. Resilience, resourcefulness and perseverance make you a promising graduate school candidate.

Growing up working class, urban decay becomes depressingly familiar. The sight of a row of abandoned houses does not surprise me, but it continues to bother me. Since high school, I have been determined to pursue a career in urban planning. While people of my background experience the consequences of urban planning decisions first-hand, we are underrepresented in the field itself. Ironically, given my motivation, my economic background has made my studies challenging. I was fortunate enough to be awarded a scholarship for my undergraduate studies, but after graduation I took jobs in unrelated fields to help support my parents. In the three years since, I have not lost my ambition. Now I am keen to resume my studies, and I believe I can bring an invaluable perspective to the table: that of the people most impacted by the decisions of urban planners.

Strategy 3: Demonstrate your knowledge of the field

Especially if you’re applying for a PhD or another research-focused program, it’s a good idea to show your familiarity with the subject and the department. Your personal statement can focus on the area you want to specialize in and reflect on why it matters to you.

• Reflect on the topics or themes that you’ve focused on in your studies. What draws you to them?
• Discuss any academic achievements, influential teachers, or other highlights of your education.
• Talk about the questions you’d like to explore in your research and why you think they’re important.

The personal statement isn’t a research proposal , so don’t go overboard on detail—but it’s a great opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the field and your capacity for original thinking.

In applying for this research program, my intention is to build on the multidisciplinary approach I have taken in my studies so far, combining knowledge from disparate fields of study to better understand psychological concepts and issues. The Media Psychology program stands out to me as the perfect environment for this kind of research, given its researchers’ openness to collaboration across diverse fields. I am impressed by the department’s innovative interdisciplinary projects that focus on the shifting landscape of media and technology, and I hope that my own work can follow a similarly trailblazing approach. More specifically, I want to develop my understanding of the intersection of psychology and media studies, and explore how media psychology theories and methods might be applied to neurodivergent minds. I am interested not only in media psychology but also in psychological disorders, and how the two interact. This is something I touched on during my undergraduate studies and that I’m excited to delve into further.

Strategy 4: Discuss your professional ambitions

Especially if you’re applying for a more professionally-oriented program (such as an MBA), it’s a good idea to focus on concrete goals and how the program will help you achieve them.

• If your career is just getting started, show how your character is suited to the field, and explain how graduate school will help you develop your talents.
• If you have already worked in the profession, show what you’ve achieved so far, and explain how the program will allow you to take the next step.
• If you are planning a career change, explain what has driven this decision and how your existing experience will help you succeed.

Don’t just state the position you want to achieve. You should demonstrate that you’ve put plenty of thought into your career plans and show why you’re well-suited to this profession.

One thing that fascinated me about the field during my undergraduate studies was the sheer number of different elements whose interactions constitute a person’s experience of an urban environment. Any number of factors could transform the scene I described at the beginning: What if there were no bus route? Better community outreach in the neighborhood? Worse law enforcement? More or fewer jobs available in the area? Some of these factors are out of the hands of an urban planner, but without taking them all into consideration, the planner has an incomplete picture of their task. Through further study I hope to develop my understanding of how these disparate elements combine and interact to create the urban environment. I am interested in the social, psychological and political effects our surroundings have on our lives. My studies will allow me to work on projects directly affecting the kinds of working-class urban communities I know well. I believe I can bring my own experiences, as well as my education, to bear upon the problem of improving infrastructure and quality of life in these communities.

Tips for the main body

• Don’t rehash your resume by trying to summarize everything you’ve done so far; the personal statement isn’t about listing your academic or professional experience, but about reflecting, evaluating, and relating it to broader themes.
• Do make your statements into stories: Instead of saying you’re hard-working and self-motivated, write about your internship where you took the initiative to start a new project. Instead of saying you’ve always loved reading, reflect on a novel or poem that changed your perspective.

Your conclusion should bring the focus back to the program and what you hope to get out of it, whether that’s developing practical skills, exploring intellectual questions, or both.

Emphasize the fit with your specific interests, showing why this program would be the best way to achieve your aims.

Strategy 1: What do you want to know?

If you’re applying for a more academic or research-focused program, end on a note of curiosity: what do you hope to learn, and why do you think this is the best place to learn it?

If there are specific classes or faculty members that you’re excited to learn from, this is the place to express your enthusiasm.

Strategy 2: What do you want to do?

If you’re applying for a program that focuses more on professional training, your conclusion can look to your career aspirations: what role do you want to play in society, and why is this program the best choice to help you get there?

Tips for the conclusion

• Don’t summarize what you’ve already said. You have limited space in a personal statement, so use it wisely!
• Do think bigger than yourself: try to express how your individual aspirations relate to your local community, your academic field, or society more broadly. It’s not just about what you’ll get out of graduate school, but about what you’ll be able to give back.

You’ll be expected to do a lot of writing in graduate school, so make a good first impression: leave yourself plenty of time to revise and polish the text.

Your style doesn’t have to be as formal as other kinds of academic writing, but it should be clear, direct and coherent. Make sure that each paragraph flows smoothly from the last, using topic sentences and transitions to create clear connections between each part.

Don’t be afraid to rewrite and restructure as much as necessary. Since you have a lot of freedom in the structure of a personal statement, you can experiment and move information around to see what works best.

Finally, it’s essential to carefully proofread your personal statement and fix any language errors. Before you submit your application, consider investing in professional personal statement editing . For $150, you have the peace of mind that your personal statement is grammatically correct, strong in term of your arguments, and free of awkward mistakes.

A statement of purpose is usually more formal, focusing on your academic or professional goals. It shouldn’t include anything that isn’t directly relevant to the application.

A personal statement can often be more creative. It might tell a story that isn’t directly related to the application, but that shows something about your personality, values, and motivations.

However, both types of document have the same overall goal: to demonstrate your potential as a graduate student and s how why you’re a great match for the program.

The typical length of a personal statement for graduate school applications is between 500 and 1,000 words.

Different programs have different requirements, so always check if there’s a minimum or maximum length and stick to the guidelines. If there is no recommended word count, aim for no more than 1-2 pages.

If you’re applying to multiple graduate school programs, you should tailor your personal statement to each application.

Some applications provide a prompt or question. In this case, you might have to write a new personal statement from scratch: the most important task is to respond to what you have been asked.

If there’s no prompt or guidelines, you can re-use the same idea for your personal statement – but change the details wherever relevant, making sure to emphasize why you’re applying to this specific program.

If the application also includes other essays, such as a statement of purpose , you might have to revise your personal statement to avoid repeating the same information.

If you want to know more about college essays , academic writing , and AI tools , make sure to check out some of our other language articles with explanations, examples, and quizzes.

College essays

• College essay examples
• College essay format
• College essay style
• College essay length
• Diversity essays
• Scholarship essays

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Avoiding repetition
• Literature review
• Conceptual framework
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• Thesis acknowledgements
• Burned or burnt
• Canceled or cancelled
• Dreamt or dreamed
• Gray or grey
• Theater vs theatre

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A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.

The Office of the Vice President for Research is seeking a highly motivated and organized individual to join our administrative team as an Administrative Assistant Sr./Events Coordinator. This position will perform advanced, diversified and confidential administrative duties and will also work collaboratively with leadership and program leads to schedule, plan and execute all in-person and virtual events for OVPR and its central office programs. The ideal candidate will possess broad administrative support experience, strong knowledge of university policies and practices, and successful event coordination experience, for both in-person and large virtual meetings and webinars. 

This position is responsible for all events and some backup front desk reception duties and other general administrative tasks in this executive office. Therefore, the schedule will generally be in the office 4-5 days per week (some occasional remote work may be possible).

Responsibilities*

Work closely with leadership, program leads, project managers, and executive assistants to schedule, plan, and execute successful events for the office and programs including award receptions, dinners, all-staff gatherings, workshops, seminars, celebrations, site visits, etc. Events will include small and large in-person meetings and events, and large virtual/hybrid meetings and webinars. Manage communications with event sponsors, presenters, speakers, and guests, and coordinate all event details including venue, contracts, budget, catering, technology needs, meeting materials, run of show, and travel support. 

Perform advanced, diversified and confidential administrative support for assigned executive directors and/or directors or others as assigned. Tasks will include supporting calendars, committees, meetings, travel, expense reports, etc.

As a member of the OVPR administrative team, provide high-level general administrative services to support efficient daily operations of the office. This will include backup reception duties including assisting with processing incoming and outgoing mail, organizing supplies, scheduling, preparing, and confirming conference and meeting rooms. This position will also provide assistance and backup executive level support for executive assistants when needed. 

Other duties and projects as assigned.

Required Qualifications*

At least 5-7 years of broad and progressive administrative experience performing advanced, diversified and confidential duties. 

At least four years of event planning and execution experience supporting large and small in-person and virtual events. 

Proven ability to work professionally with the public and serve as a representative of the office with discretion. 

Ability to work in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. 

Ability to work flexibly and independently, set priorities, work simultaneously on numerous tasks, use good judgement and initiative, and meet/exceed deadlines. 

Possess strong interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills. 

Possess a friendly, dependable, and professional attitude with a welcoming personality. 

Demonstrate a proven record of displaying strong attention to detail, deep dedication to customer service, and a team approach to work. 

Possess exceptional office technology skills including Microsoft products, virtual platforms, and room A/V systems, and a willingness to learn and master new technologies as needed.

Desired Qualifications*

At least 5-7 years of broad and progressive administrative experience and at least four years of event planning and execution experience; both in the university is strongly desired.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks.  Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda Provides the Single Largest Industrial Decarbonization Investment in the Nation’s History, Driving $20+ Billion in Total Investment to Revitalize Manufacturing Communities and Create and Maintain Good-Paying Jobs 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda , the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced up to $6 billion for 33 projects across more than 20 states to decarbonize energy-intensive industries, reduce industrial greenhouse gas emissions, support good-paying union jobs, revitalize industrial communities, and strengthen the nation’s manufacturing competitiveness. Funded by the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, the projects will create and maintain tens of thousands of high-quality jobs and help accelerate the commercial-scale demonstration of emerging industrial decarbonization technologies crucial to meeting the Biden-Harris administration's climate and domestic manufacturing goals.  

The projects will focus on the highest emitting industries where decarbonization technologies will have the greatest impact, including aluminum and other metals, cement and concrete, chemicals and refining, iron and steel, and more. Together, the projects are expected to reduce the equivalent of more than 14 million metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions each year—an amount equivalent to the annual emissions of 3 million gasoline-powered cars. Many of the projects will deploy first-in-the-nation emissions-reducing technologies that have the potential for sector-wide adoption and transformation, multiplying the magnitude of the emissions cuts and supporting the future of U.S. manufacturing. Today’s announcement is the largest investment in industrial decarbonization in American history, helping to position American manufacturers and workers to lead the global clean energy economy.  

“Spurring on the next generation of decarbonization technologies in key industries like steel, paper, concrete, and glass will keep America the most competitive nation on Earth,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Thanks to President Biden’s industrial strategy, DOE is making the largest investment in industrial decarbonization in the history of the United States. These investments will slash emissions from these difficult-to-decarbonize sectors and ensure American businesses and American workers remain at the forefront of the global economy.” 

This transformative federal investment will help strengthen local economies and create and maintain tens of thousands of good-paying, high-quality jobs—particularly those that support worker organizing and collective bargaining. As part of President Biden’s efforts to build an equitable and inclusive clean energy future, each project is also expected to develop and ultimately implement a comprehensive Community Benefits Plan that ensures meaningful community and labor engagement. Nearly 80% of the projects are located in a disadvantaged community, as defined by President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative , offering a significant opportunity to invest in good jobs and clean air in communities that have experienced years of divestment. 

The industrial sector contributes nearly one-third of the nation’s overall greenhouse gas emissions. This transformative federal investment is matched by the selected projects to leverage more than $20 billion in total to demonstrate commercial-scale decarbonization solutions needed to move the industrial sector toward net-zero emissions. Funded projects will cut carbon emissions by an average of 77%. The industrial sector’s unique and complex decarbonization challenges require equally unique and innovative decarbonization solutions that leverage multiple pathways including energy efficiency, electrification, and alternative fuels and feedstocks such as clean hydrogen. The projects announced today are part of the Industrial Demonstrations Program , managed by DOE’s Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED), and will help strengthen America’s manufacturing and industrial competitiveness. Funding for these projects includes $489 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and $5.47 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act. 

Decarbonizing Energy- and Emissions-Intensive Industries

The 33 projects selected for award negotiations represent difficult-to-decarbonize industries, including seven chemicals and refining projects, six cement and concrete projects, six iron and steel projects, five aluminum and metals projects, three food and beverage projects, three glass projects, two process heat-focused projects, and one pulp and paper project.  

An overview of selected projects broken down by industry include:  

• Chemicals and Refining : The seven selected chemicals and refining projects demonstrate how one of the world’s largest industries can turn its carbon intensity from a liability into an advantage, increase circularity, and onshore critical supply chains for clean fuels and key electric vehicle components. These projects plan to demonstrate opportunities to upcycle captured carbon to value-added products, create high-quality fuels and materials from recycled products, and replace fossil-fired, high-heat processes with decarbonized fuels. Together, the seven projects would create products like clean fuels for the marine sector, electrolytes for electric vehicle batteries, and high-quality plastics.  
• Cement and Concrete : The six selected cement and concrete projects plan to demonstrate a comprehensive set of technologies capable of eliminating all CO2 emissions from today’s plants while setting the stage for a future where cement—one of the single largest sources of CO2 emissions globally—can be net-negative. These game-changing projects will revolutionize a sector that has relied on emissions-intensive processes for millennia. From capturing and sequestering the emissions from one of the largest cement plants in the U.S. to pioneering chemistry changes to mitigate emissions at their source, DOE’s investments can fundamentally transform cement—the world’s most abundant man-made material and a building block of our world’s infrastructure. Together, the projects will develop new pathways for making traditional Portland cement with lower or zero emissions and to pioneer new materials and new mixtures that can drive the sector to zero emissions.  
• Iron and Steel : The six selected iron and steel projects plan to demonstrate emerging technologies, including some of the world’s first clean hydrogen-fueled direct reduced ironmaking facilities, which can eliminate the vast majority of steelmaking emissions. The projects will help decarbonize iron and steelmaking and enable the industry to phase out more traditional carbon-intensive production methods that rely on coal. This investment is expected to help create products like high grades of steel for the automotive industry, while solidifying the nation’s position as the global leader in low-carbon iron and steel products.  
• Aluminum and Metals : The five selected aluminum and metals projects include a major capital injection to decarbonize and revitalize the U.S. primary aluminum industry along with world-leading recycling approaches for both aluminum and copper. After decades of decline, these investments lay the groundwork for a potential rebound of this critical sector. These investments aim to improve U.S. industry’s competitiveness and efficiency while simultaneously decarbonizing and onshoring supply chains for materials critical for defense and energy sectors. In addition to the high-purity aluminum needed for the defense and energy sectors, the selections include projects that would create recycled aluminum for the food and beverage industry and copper for semiconductors and electric vehicles.  
• Food and Beverage : The three selected food and beverage projects will demonstrate highly replicable energy efficiency and electrification solutions for low- to medium-temperature process heat across 16 locations. These projects can increase consumer awareness around embodied emissions by decarbonizing products that Americans consume every day like ice cream, ketchup, and BBQ sauce.  
• Glass : The three selected glass projects plan to validate electric/fuel hybrid furnaces producing low-emission glass bottles, tableware, and food packaging. This suite of projects will help decarbonize high-temperature heat and set a roadmap for other heat-intensive industrial processes.  
• Process Heat : These two projects plan to validate the use of electric boilers and electric steam production to reduce emissions associated with process heating across a wide range of industries. By demonstrating applicability across sectors, these projects will chart a path for addressing one of the biggest challenges in the industrial sector—heat-related emissions. 
• Pulp and Paper : The one selected pulp and paper project aims to improve energy efficiency by using a novel membrane for an important separations process instead of heat. This technology is highly replicable for many applications, including chemicals and critical materials.  

Learn more about the 33 projects selected for award negotiations . 

Laying the Foundation of an Inclusive Clean Energy Future 

The Biden-Harris administration is dedicated to working in partnership with communities and industries to build an equitable clean energy economy that benefits every American. As part of the Administration’s commitments to invest in America’s workforce, support high-quality American jobs, advance environmental and energy justice, and strengthen tribal energy sovereignty, each project was required to develop and ultimately implement a comprehensive community benefits plan —which will be informed by early and meaningful community and labor engagements in each region. Applicants were required to describe how their proposals would provide the greatest benefit to the greatest number of people in a facility’s location, recognizing the opportunity this funding provides to address pollution for those disproportionately affected by industrial sector emissions and begin remediating existing social, economic, and health burdens.  

To kickstart ongoing engagement around these projects, OCED will hold a series of national and regional virtual briefings to provide information on the selected projects, introduce OCED’s approach to clean energy demonstrations, and provide opportunities for industry and communities to engage further on specific projects of interest. Learn about IDP engagement opportunities and register to attend .  

Selection for award negotiations is not a commitment by DOE to issue an award or provide funding. Before funding is issued, DOE and the selected applicants will undergo a negotiation process, and DOE may cancel negotiations and rescind the selection for any reason during that time. Lead applicants also may change during the award negotiations process. If awarded, OCED will evaluate these projects through a phased approach to project management that includes “go/no-go” decision points between each project phase where DOE reviews and evaluates implementation progress, including community benefits. 

Learn more about how OCED , the Department’s Pathway to Industrial Decarbonization Commercial Liftoff , the Department’s Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap , and the Industrial Technologies Joint Strategy support the research, development, demonstration, and deployment of technologies that will help the U.S. industrial sector reach President Biden’s ambitious goal of a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.