We use cookies to improve and customise your experience, for analytics and metrics, and to track any purchases you make both on this website and on others. To find out more about the cookies we use see our cookie policy
More info
- Manage the day to day running of offices, sometimes including the management of large teams
- You'll need great organisational and management skills, and the ability to prioritise workload
- You could then move into operations management, project management, or senior administrative roles
As an office manager, you'll be responsible for the smooth running of everyday activities in an office or department.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
Your duties will vary depending on the size of organisation you work for. In a smaller office, you may also deal with staff recruitment and training. Your duties may include:
- Establishing policies and procedures for staff
- Developing quality control processes
- Carrying out staff appraisals
- Measuring performance and dealing with disciplinary issues
- Preparing reports and giving presentations to the senior management team
- Managing the office budget
- Supporting staff career development
- Attending conferences and training events
- Dealing with staff recruitment
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You could work in an office, and you may need to wear smart business dress.
You'll need
To be an office manager, you'll need business management and administration skills, patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations, the ability to organise your time and workload, thoroughness and attention to detail, the ability to work well with others, excellent verbal communication skills, and the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning.
You could do a degree in business management, human resource management, or public administration. Once completed, you could apply for a trainee manager position, such as through a company's graduate training scheme.
You can also do a higher apprenticeship in business and professional administration.
You could start as an office assistant or supervisor in a company, then move on to become a manager through internal training and promotion.
CAREER PROSPECTS
With experience and training you could take on more responsibility for managing projects, or provide cover for senior management duties. Other career options include moving into buying and procurement, financial management, business development and operations management.