A secretary is responsible for providing administrative and clerical support to an organization. An administrative assistant is responsible for a wide range of clerical and administrative tasks.
The duties of a secretary
Secretaries typically work in an office environment and their duties can include answering telephones, taking messages, scheduling appointments, preparing correspondence, maintaining files, and assisting with various projects.
The duties of an administrative assistant
Administrative assistant’s work typically includes answering phones, typing documents, filing, and managing calendars. They may also be responsible for ordering supplies and scheduling appointments. Administrative assistants typically report to an office manager or a senior executive.
The key differences between the two positions
The main differences between a secretary and an administrative assistant are their job duties, educational requirements, and salaries. A secretary mainly performs clerical tasks, such as answering phones, typing documents, and maintaining schedules. An administrative assistant has a more broad range of responsibilities that can include managing projects, coordinating events, and handling customer inquiries. Administrative assistants typically have at least an associate’s degree, while secretaries often only need a high school diploma or equivalent. The average salary for an administrative assistant is $46,000 per year, while the average salary for a secretary is $35,000 per year.
What are the positions they hold in a company?
A secretary is an officer of a company who is responsible for the efficient running of the office and its secretarial staff. They are usually appointed by the board of directors and report directly to them. The duties of a secretary can vary depending on the size and nature of the business, but typically include managing correspondence, organizing meetings, and maintaining records.
An administrative assistant, on the other hand, is a support staff position that provides clerical and operational assistance to an individual or department. Administrative assistants are not typically responsible for leading or managing others, as that is typically reserved for secretaries and managers. Administrative assistants may have some supervisory duties over less experienced clerical staff, but this is not their primary focus. The duties of an administrative assistant can vary depending on their employer, but commonly include tasks such as scheduling appointments, preparing correspondence, handling customer inquiries, and maintaining files.
Can a secretary sign on behalf of a company?
A secretary may sign on behalf of a company if she has been given the authority to do so by her employer. This authority is typically granted in writing and may be limited to certain types of documents or transactions. If a secretary signs on behalf of a company without proper authorization, she may be held liable for any resulting damages.
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