Can I escape the administrative assistant glass ceiling?
Asked by maigirl
I graduated with my BA in English from UCLA five years ago. Since then, I have been in one admin. asst. job after the other. It seems like I can't move up because other jobs want previous experience in jobs that are not merely assisting duties. Any ideas on jobs to look for? I'm pretty tired of always being at the bottom, and I have about five years of experience now.

Best Answer:
My girlfriend just went through the same thing and I hear ya, it is not easy to break away from that kind of position. I would suggest that in your resume you focus on the particular tasks you were a part of while in those positions. Did you help plan office parties? If so, you have event planning and coordination experience! Did you send mail to customers or handle any part of invoices? If so you have fulfillment and billing experience! I know it sounds kind of silly, but you just have to sugar-coat your experience and avoid the term "administrative assistant". If you're on good terms with any previous employers, call them and see about inventing a fancy new title for your previous position! I know it sounds a little dishonest, but you are so right about a "glass ceiling" and if you're confident about your own skills then you shouldnt feel bad about embellishing your credentials with mere terminology. I wish you the best of luck!

I would look for a job with a different title, something like a Coordinator or Manager. Those positions usually have some sort of supervisory role, you may have a small staff under you. You also might think about doing an MBA.
Answered by tetlitea

Your best bet is to try to move up within the same company. Because, when you seek opportunities they will look at your previous job experience. For example, in Financial Services industry, I have seen people come in as Admin Assistant, do a good job, etc. The company provided them with training and they moved on to positions like Operations Associate. Others with more outgoing personality were guided to take Series 7 and Series 66 exams and they were promoted as marketing associates. As they continue to learn on their new jobs, they are well on a career path. I recommend you try the same approach with your present employer. Talk to your boss. Volunteer to help with other tasks. Try to learn as much as you can. If the current firm is not conducive, try to join a firm that will allow you an opportunity to grow. Good Luck.
Answered by eternal student

Why do you look down on admin. jobs? What makes you better? You are not different. Learn how to work your way up. 5 years is nothing. You think you can get something big tomorrow? Learn how to put in your time!
Answered by <3