Starting an Admin Career with Little to No Experience

Administrative Work in Singapore: From the Scope, Starting Pay, to Qualifications

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Kickstarting Admin Career

Kickstarting a Career in Administrative Work in Singapore with Little to No Experience

Administrative work is often the backbone of any organization, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and providing essential support to various departments. For individuals looking to kickstart a career in administrative work in Singapore, the path can be both rewarding and challenging, especially if you have little to no prior experience. This guide will help you understand what to expect, the job scope, starting pay, and how to get your foot in the door.

Understanding Administrative Work

Administrative roles in Singapore are diverse, ranging from general office administration to specialized positions like executive assistants, office managers, and data entry clerks. These roles often involve a mix of clerical tasks, coordination, and support duties, making them essential to the efficient functioning of an organization.

In recent years, administrative roles have evolved to include more responsibilities, such as project management, digital tools management, and client interaction. This has led to an increased valuation of these roles, especially in sectors like finance, technology, and healthcare, where administrative support is critical.

Salary, Scope, & Qualifications of Roles

Administrative Assistant:

Salary: The average salary for entry-level administrative assistants is SGD 2,349 per month. The upper range involves administrative assistants in industries like finance or technology, where administrative tasks often include managing sensitive information or coordinating complex schedules. (Source: Indeed)

Scope: General support to office staff, handling basic clerical tasks such as filing, data entry, scheduling meetings, and managing office supplies.

  • Supporting day-to-day operational activities and ensuring smooth running of office procedures.
  • Organising and preparing meetings, conferences or assisting with other events.
  • Creating and maintaining administrative records and documents.
  • Handling internal and external communication, including telephone calls and emails.
  • Managing and distributing information within an office, which may involve data entry, document management and filing.
  • Providing customer service as the first point of contact for clients, suppliers and partners.
  • Supporting other staff members and managers, performing tasks such as scheduling appointments, sending reminders or assisting with travel arrangements.

Qualifications: A proactive attitude, good organizational skills, and the ability to multitask. Basic computer literacy, including familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), is often required. Possess at least O or N levels. Some employers might require candidates to possess a Nitec, Higher Nitec or polytechnic diploma in any field. Beneficial to have previous experience with office management systems and procedures and are proficient in using office equipment, such as printers and fax machines. Earning a relevant certification also shows the candidate’s interest in improving their abilities and their commitment to working in the administrative field. (Source: Jobstreet)


Receptionist:

Salary: The average salary for entry-level receptionists is SGD 2,380 per month. Receptionists in multinational corporations (MNCs) or companies located in prime areas such as the CBD might earn slightly more, reflecting the high expectations for client-facing roles in these environments. (Source: Indeed)

Scope: Serving as the first point of contact for visitors and callers, managing the reception area, scheduling appointments, and assisting with general inquiries.

  • Greeting guests, customers, and clients when they arrive.
  • Receiving packages and deliveries addressed to the office.
  • Sending out packages and deliveries from the office.
  • Answering and forwarding phone calls and emails.
  • Directing visitors to meeting areas.
  • Responding to questions and concerns at the reception area.
  • Ensuring the reception area is presentable.
  • Providing information to company inquiries.
  • Ensuring office security with basic safety procedures, such as guest logbooks and visitor badges.
  • Updating office calendars and scheduling meetings.
  • Arranging travel and accommodation for official company travel.
  • Photocopying, faxing, and emailing, as requested.
  • Performing other administrative tasks, as requested.

Qualifications: Strong communication skills, a professional demeanor, and a welcoming attitude. Ability to manage a busy phone line and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Possess at least A levels, or pursue a diploma, degree, or other course in any field. Complete an internship. Enhance your resume with certification from free resources or workshops. (Source: Jobstreet)

Data Entry Clerk:

Salary: For data entry clerks, the average starting pay of SGD 2,158 per month. However, with the increasing importance of data management and the digitization of many processes, those with additional skills in data analysis or software proficiency might see offers on the higher end or above this range. (Source: Glassdoor)

Scope: Inputting data into company systems, maintaining accurate records, and performing routine data verification tasks.

  • Entering data such as figures and customer information into spreadsheets and database software.
  • Making sure information is complete and accurate before entering it into the system.
  • Generating information and reports upon request.
  • Regularly backing up databases.
  • Checking existing databases for errors and correcting them as needed.
  • Filing documents.
  • Creating invoices and quotations.
  • Providing administrative support such as answering phones and replenishing office supplies.

Qualifications: High attention to detail, fast and accurate typing skills, and familiarity with database software or spreadsheets. Knowledge of MS Office applications. This is essential for carrying out your duties. Moreover, knowing your way around Excel is especially important. Some employers may prefer that their data entry personnel be familiar with Google Suite as well. Ability to type quickly. You’ll be working with large amounts of data, and you’ll be expected to enter them in a fast and efficient manner. A secondary level and O-level are usually the minimum requirements for this field of work. At the same time, companies look favourably at candidates who have completed Nitec courses. A background in accounting can give you a competitive edge as well. (Source: Jobstreet)

Executive Assistant:

Salary: Entry-level executive assistants earn an average starting pay of SGD 3,480 per month, but for those supporting C-level executives or working in high-pressure industries, starting salaries can be as high as SGD 3,500 or more. The role’s complexity, requiring experience in managing executive schedules, coordinating high-stakes meetings, and often overseeing other administrative staff, justifies the higher pay. (Source: Indeed)

Scope: Providing high-level support to senior executives, managing calendars, coordinating meetings, preparing reports, and handling confidential information.

  • Handling official communication including phone calls and emails.
  • Planning meetings and travel of senior executives.
  • Setting the executive’s daily schedule.
  • Writing memos.
  • Booking meeting rooms and making reservations at restaurants or hotels.
  • Creating slides for presentation.
  • Recording minutes of meetings.
  • Compiling, filing, and retrieving documents, records and reports.
  • Researching and preparing reports.
  • Organising and managing corporate events.
  • Collaborating with other executive assistants and office staff. 

Qualifications: Strong organizational and communication skills, discretion, and the ability to handle pressure. Experience in similar roles is often required, even for entry-level positions. You will need at least a high school diploma or GED certification to work as an Executive Assistant. Significant office experience is beneficial. Complete secondary school education. Consider earning additional certification such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) to further your credentials. (Source: Jobstreet)

Starting an Admin Career with Little to No Experience

Admin Job Market Trends

The administrative job market in Singapore is seeing a shift towards more specialized roles. As businesses embrace digital transformation, there’s an increasing demand for administrative professionals who are proficient with software tools like Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and CRM systems. Knowledge of digital communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Zoom) is also becoming essential.

Additionally, there’s a trend towards hybrid roles, where administrative duties are combined with other responsibilities such as HR support, marketing coordination, or project management. This trend is driving up both the required skill set and the compensation for these positions.

Given the current economic environment and the ongoing digital transformation across sectors, administrative roles are expected to continue evolving. For job seekers, gaining additional certifications or skills in technology and project management could provide a significant advantage in the job market, potentially leading to higher starting salaries and faster career progression.

Typical Skill Sets Required for Administrative Roles in Singapore

To succeed in an administrative career, especially in Singapore’s competitive job market, possessing a well-rounded skill set is crucial. Employers seek candidates who can manage a wide array of tasks efficiently and contribute to the smooth functioning of the organization. Here are the typical skill sets required for administrative roles:

  1. Communication Skills

Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential. Administrative professionals are often the first point of contact for clients, colleagues, and external partners. Clear and effective communication ensures that information is accurately conveyed and tasks are understood and executed properly.

  1. Organizational Skills

Administrative roles require a high level of organization. This includes managing schedules, coordinating meetings, filing documents, and handling multiple tasks simultaneously. An organized approach helps in maintaining efficiency and ensures that nothing falls through the cracks.

  1. Time Management

Effective time management is key to handling the often fast-paced nature of administrative work. Professionals must be able to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and manage their time efficiently to support the workflow of the entire office.

  1. Proficiency in Office Software

Being proficient in office software is a must. This includes:

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint): For document creation, data management, and presentations.
  • Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Calendar): For collaborative work and scheduling.
  • Email Management Tools: For managing correspondence and organizing communication.

Emerging Skills in Demand

As the workplace continues to evolve, certain additional skills are becoming increasingly valuable:

  • Digital Literacy: Familiarity with digital tools and platforms, such as CRM systems and project management software, is becoming more important.
  • Project Management: Understanding basic project management principles can be beneficial, especially for those in roles that support project teams.
  • Social Media Management: In some organizations, administrative roles may include managing social media accounts or digital communications.

Developing these skills can significantly enhance your employability and open doors to more advanced positions within the administrative field.

How to Get Started

  1. Develop Essential Skills:
    • Computer Literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant software is crucial. Consider taking online courses or certifications to boost your skills.
    • Communication: Good verbal and written communication skills are essential. Practice writing professional emails and handling phone calls.
    • Organizational Skills: Learn how to manage your time effectively and keep things orderly. Tools like Google Calendar or Trello can help you get organized.

  2. Craft a Strong Resume:
    • Highlight any relevant skills or experiences, even if they come from internships, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Emphasize your ability to learn quickly and adapt to new environments.

  3. Leverage Networking:
    • Join online forums, LinkedIn groups, or local communities related to administrative work. Attend job fairs and networking events to meet professionals in the field.
    • Consider reaching out to recruitment agencies specializing in administrative roles, as they often have entry-level positions available.

  4. Apply for Entry-Level Positions:
    • Start by applying for entry-level roles such as administrative assistant or receptionist. Even if the job posting asks for some experience, emphasize your willingness to learn and your relevant skills.

  5. Be Prepared for Interviews:
    • Research common interview questions for administrative roles. Be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple tasks.

  6. Consider Temp Jobs or Internships:
    • Temporary positions or internships can be a great way to gain experience and build your resume. Many companies in Singapore offer temp jobs that can lead to full-time opportunities.

Recommended Training Courses by EON

To help you kickstart your career in administrative work, consider enrolling in the following courses offered by EON. These courses are designed to equip you with the essential skills needed to excel in various administrative roles.

  1. Beginner Level – (WSQ) Office Management Skills for Admin Professionals


Course Details: This course is ideal for those who are new to administrative roles. It provides a strong foundation in understanding the demands and expectations of administrative work.

Course Highlights:

  • Understanding the evolving role of administrative support.
  • Managing different stakeholders effectively.
  • Enhancing self-confidence and competencies.
  • Applying tools and strategies to improve productivity.
  • Developing effective communication and problem-solving skills.


Who Should Attend
: All levels of administrative professionals, including executive/senior secretaries, personal assistants, and senior administrative professionals.

Funding: WSS/MCES/Absentee Payroll/SFC/SFEC/PSEA/UTAP

  1. Intermediate Level – Essential Skills for Professional Administrators


Course Details: This course is tailored for those who wish to build on their existing skills and take their administrative career to the next level.

Course Highlights:

  • Developing SMART goals and effective planning.
  • Enhancing personal competencies to become a self-directed achiever.
  • Creating efficient office procedures for various administrative functions.
  • Applying critical thinking to solve problems and generate ideas.
  • Working effectively in diverse teams.


Who Should Attend
: Personal assistants, executive secretaries, administrators, and administrative assistants working with senior and middle management.

Funding: SDF / SFC / UTAP

  1. Advanced Level – Advanced Skills for Administrative Professionals


Course Details: This advanced course is designed for experienced administrative professionals who want to enhance their skills further and take on more responsibility.

Course Highlights:

  • Managing challenges in today’s business environment.
  • Developing creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Building cohesive and effective teams.
  • Creating and managing change to shape the future.
  • Handling conflicts to achieve team effectiveness.


Who Should Attend
: Secretaries & PAs, senior officers, assistant managers, managers, and senior managers working with senior management.

Funding: SDF / SFC / UTAP

admin courses

Career Advancement & Final Thoughts

Starting a career in administrative work in Singapore is accessible with the right approach, even if you have little to no experience. By investing in the right training and being proactive in your job search, you can build a solid foundation for a successful career in this dynamic field. With time, experience, and continuous learning, you can advance to higher-level positions, offering greater responsibility and rewards. Once you have gained some experience, there are ample opportunities to advance in the administrative field. You could move into specialized roles such as Office Manager, HR Assistant, or Executive Assistant, each offering higher pay and greater responsibility. With additional certifications or education, you could also transition into related fields such as Human Resources, Project Management, or Operations.

Final Thoughts

Starting a career in administrative work in Singapore, even with little to no experience, is entirely possible with the right approach. Focus on building essential skills, crafting a strong resume, and being proactive in your job search. Administrative roles offer a solid foundation for career growth, and with dedication, you can advance to more specialized and higher-paying positions.