How to become an office manager
There are several routes to becoming an office manager. You could do a university course, college course, an apprenticeship, on the job training or apply to an employer directly.
You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.
You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.
University
You can become an office manager with a degree in any subject, but degrees in business management, human resource management, public administration and business administration are particularly useful for an office manager role.
Once you’ve completed your studies, you could apply for a trainee position, or enter a company’s graduate scheme.
College/training provider
There isn’t a college course specifically for office management, but you could complete a course which would give you some of the skills and knowledge needed for the role.
Traineeship
If you are aged between 16 and 24 you may be eligible for a traineeship. This is a short course (2 weeks - 6 months) which helps you to gain work experience in your chosen role.
Apprenticeship
You could complete a business administration higher apprenticeship to become an office manager. This typically takes 18 months to complete.
An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry.
Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.
Work
If you have some basic experience, you could apply directly to a construction company to gain experience as a trainee office manager. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced office manager or supervisor and progress as your abilities improve.
Work experience
Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. Previous office-based, secretarial or customer-facing work experience would be valued by any employer. Some employers also ask for previous experience of working within an office-based role in construction. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.
Skills
- Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as an office manager include:
- Excellent organisational skills
- Adaptability
- IT skills
- Attention to detail
- Ability to solve problems
- Communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills
- Administration skills
- Business management
- The ability to work well with others
- To be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently.
