what is an office manager?

As an office manager, you organize all administrative roles for a company and ensure that the office runs smoothly. It is important to develop supervisory skills to manage others effectively. You are also responsible for resolving employee disputes and hiring or firing employees as an office manager.

The size and type of the company will determine your responsibilities as an office manager. You handle most of the jobs in a small business, but in a large company, you supervise the work of a team. If you're in charge of a team, you motivate and encourage them to improve their productivity and increase the quality of work.

Time is critical to a company's success. The need for office managers has grown as a result of this. Business owners hire office managers to ensure they complete their office tasks promptly. Any brick-and-mortar business that allows customers to visit their location requires an office manager to assist in customer service. Companies with many employees also hire office managers to deal with employee questions and concerns.

Would working as an office manager suit your organizational skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an office manager role.

office manager jobs
1

average office manager salary

According to Job Bank, office managers earn an average salary of $52,533 per year or an hourly rate of $26.94. Your earnings are slightly lower in an entry-level position due to your minimal expertise. Your starting salary is $44,850 per year, but you can earn over $90,000 per year with experience.

how to increase your salary as an office manager

As an office manager, your earnings depend on your experience and qualifications. When you have a degree or a college diploma, you earn more than an office manager without a university degree. Industry-related experience also increases your earning potential.

download our salary guide
2

types of office managers

Office managers work in various industries and fields. Some of the types of office managers include:

  • corporate office managers: in a corporate setting, you work as the office manager for a particular department. You can work as a regional, national or provincial office manager in a large organization.
  • legal office managers: in a legal environment, you require specialization in law due to specific laws and procedures. As a law firm office manager, your duties include scheduling workers, drafting legal documents and handling public relations.
  • remote office managers: with many companies introducing a hybrid work setting, you can engage administrative workers virtually. You coordinate and oversee remote workers to ensure they perform their duties.
woman smiling with monitor behind
woman smiling with monitor behind
3

working as an office manager

Working as an office manager is an exciting role that prepares you for top managerial positions. Here are the specific tasks, work schedules and work environments of office managers.

4

office manager skills and education

The requirements for becoming an office manager include:

  • education: it is essential to have a degree or college diploma to work as an office manager. You can pursue a degree in business management or any field related to your area of interest. For instance, if you want to work in a legal office, you need a legal studies or law diploma.
  • work experience: to work as an office manager, you require work experience. Most employers prefer candidates with administrative knowledge and supervisory skills. Having knowledge of various software programs is also an added advantage.

competencies and characteristics of office managers

The primary responsibility of an office manager is to ensure that office operations run smoothly. You also work with various departments, so having the necessary skills to assist you in your daily operations is essential. As an office manager, you'll need the following skills:

  • budgeting skills: as an office manager, you are in charge of office expenses. Your budgeting and financial planning skills help you manage income and expenditures. Sometimes, you are expected to review sales reports and invoices.
  • leadership skills: you lead a team of administrative staff, and your job is to motivate and inspire them to accomplish their duties. With your leadership skills, you can supervise several teams and ensure the office runs smoothly.
  • analytical skills: aside from organizing office functions, you are expected to evaluate the current systems and improve efficiency. Your analytical skills help you evaluate the technological improvements required and find ways to boost office operations.
5

FAQs

Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of an office manager.

6

meet a recruiter

Make sure your resume is up-to-date, including information about your technical skills and certifications. Then share it with us to connect with a recruiter and be matched with job opportunities.

thank you for subscribing to your personalised job alerts.