Business
Business activities go on in just about every employment sector you can think of, including finance, manufacturing, tourism, entertainment and leisure, local and national government, healthcare and education. There are people who organise and plan for the future, keep track of who’s doing what, where the money is going and how systems are working.
To work in the business world, you need:
- good communication and negotiation skills
- the ability to work in a team
- ICT skills and some ability with figures
- a thorough and accurate approach to work
Administrative assistants do fairly straightforward tasks under supervision although the work may be quite varied and there should be a chance to feel involved in the organisation.
Supervisors or office managers take more responsibility.
Senior secretaries or executaries or personal assistants perform quite responsible administrative tasks.
Qualifications and courses
To start as a trainee or junior, particular qualifications are not usually specified other than good GCSE’s or equivalent. However, while particular subjects are not specified, business subjects are helpful.
At all entry levels, ICT skills are likely to be required.
There are administration and business courses at all levels. Courses often include a core of compulsory subjects, and options to choose from. Full time and part time courses are available at the Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education such as certificate in administration at level 1 and Level 2 as well as the First Certificate/Diploma or the National Certificate/Diploma in business.
Other qualifications
You could also consider courses at the University Campus which offers degrees in Business. Other qualifications include those offered by the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators, OCR and the LCCI Examinations Board. NVQ in various aspects of business, including administration can be gained in the workplace.
