What Does an Office Manager Do?
Find out what an office manager does, how to get this job, and what it takes to succeed as an office manager.
Office managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of their company’s office. They commonly play a hands-on role in managing their staff, ensuring that they have everything they need to do their job well.
Office managers may also be tasked with developing and implementing policies and procedures related to the running of their office. This might include things like creating schedules, assigning tasks to employees, or handling other administrative duties.
Office Manager Job Duties
An office manager typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:
- Overseeing office operations such as purchasing supplies, hiring staff, and planning social events
- Scheduling meetings, phone calls, interviews, and other appointments for managers or other employees
- Processing incoming mail, answering phones, and greeting clients in person or on the phone
- Coordinating the use of office equipment, supplies, and computers
- Managing company finances by maintaining records of expenses and revenues, preparing budgets, and monitoring cash flow
- Maintaining employee records such as personnel files and compensation information
- Reviewing and approving invoices for payment or rejecting them if they do not meet company standards
- Coordinating training programs for new employees or existing staff members on new computer programs or office procedures
- Coordinating with departments across the company to ensure that all office needs are met
Office Manager Salary & Outlook
Office managers’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the size and industry of the company. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses or commissions.
- Median Annual Salary: $52,500 ($25.24/hour)
- Top 10% Annual Salary: $84,500 ($40.63/hour)
The employment of office managers is expected to decline over the next decade.
Employment growth will be limited by the increasing automation of office tasks, such as word processing and accounting. As these technologies improve, fewer office managers will be needed to oversee their use. In addition, some office managers will be displaced when organizations outsource work to save money.
Office Manager Job Requirements
The following are some of the qualifications that are often required to become an office manager:
Education: Most employers require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree for a career as a medical office manager. Some of the most common majors for this position are business administration, health administration and health information management. Courses in these programs include topics such as health care policy, ethics, medical terminology, business management and health care law.
Training & Experience: Most of an office manager’s training will take place on the job. Training for this role will typically include learning the company’s policies and procedures, how to use the company’s software and technology, and how to manage the office’s finances. Office managers can also receive training in office administration and management.
Certifications & Licenses: While not a requirement for the role, certification can help a candidate demonstrate their strong leadership or administrative skills.
Office Manager Skills
Office managers need the following skills in order to be successful:
Communication: Communication is another important skill for an office manager. You may be responsible for relaying messages to and from employees, clients and other members of the company. You should be able to communicate clearly and concisely in writing and verbally. You should also be able to listen to others and respond appropriately.
Leadership: As an office manager, you may be responsible for supervising other employees. Leadership skills can help you to be an effective manager and mentor to your team. You can use your leadership skills to motivate your team, encourage professional development and create a positive work environment.
Organization: Organization is another important skill for an office manager to have. You may be responsible for scheduling meetings, maintaining files and records, and keeping track of office supplies. Being organized can help you complete your tasks efficiently and effectively.
Problem-solving: As an office manager, you may be responsible for resolving issues that arise in the workplace. Your problem-solving skills can help you find solutions to workplace issues and maintain a positive work environment. You may also be responsible for resolving issues that arise between employees.
Technology: As an office manager, you may be responsible for managing the company’s computer system, email accounts and other technology. Having a working knowledge of technology and how to use it is an important skill for an office manager.
Office Manager Work Environment
Office managers work in a variety of settings, including corporate offices, government agencies, medical and dental offices, and schools. They usually work during regular business hours, although they may occasionally need to work evenings or weekends to complete special projects. Office managers typically work a 40-hour week, although some may work 50 or more hours per week. They may also be required to travel to attend conferences or to meet with clients or other managers. The work of an office manager can be stressful, especially when deadlines are tight or when there are last-minute changes. However, most office managers find their work to be challenging and rewarding, and they feel that they make a direct and positive impact on the efficiency of their office.
Office Manager Trends
Here are three trends influencing how office managers work. Office managers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.
The Rise of the Remote Workforce
The rise of the remote workforce is a trend that is quickly gaining popularity among businesses. This is due to the many benefits that it offers, such as reduced costs and increased productivity.
Office managers who are able to manage a remote workforce will be in high demand, as they will be able to help businesses save money and improve efficiency. In order to be successful in this role, office managers will need to be comfortable with technology and have strong communication skills.
More Focus on Employee Engagement
Employee engagement is becoming an increasingly important focus for businesses. This is because research has shown that engaged employees are more productive and loyal, which leads to better business outcomes.
As employee engagement becomes more important, office managers will need to find ways to create a positive work environment where employees feel valued and appreciated. This can include things like team-building activities, recognition programs, and flexible work schedules.
A Greater Emphasis on Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion is becoming an increasingly important topic in the business world. As companies strive to become more diverse and inclusive, they are looking for office managers who can help them achieve this goal.
Office managers can play a key role in helping their company become more diverse and inclusive by promoting diversity within the office and creating a welcoming environment for all employees. They can also help to create policies and procedures that promote diversity and inclusion.
How to Become an Office Manager
A career as an office manager can be rewarding in many ways. It offers the opportunity to work with a variety of people, learn new skills, and help your company succeed. Office managers are often responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of their company, which can include overseeing staff, organizing paperwork, and ensuring that systems are running smoothly.
To become an office manager, you’ll need to have strong organizational skills, be able to handle stress well, and be able to work under pressure. You’ll also need to be able to communicate effectively with both employees and customers.
Related: How to Write an Office Manager Resume
Advancement Prospects
Office managers typically start out in entry-level positions and advance to higher-level positions as they gain experience. Some office managers eventually move into executive-level positions, such as chief operating officer (COO) or president of a company. Other office managers may start their own businesses or become consultants.
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