The Role of the Office Manager

started as a receptionist and when my manager (the Office Manager at the time) suddenly left I realised that I had the skills and knowledge to take over her role and would immensely enjoy the challenge. I actually love organising people and the office and ensuring everyone is looked after and happy.

It is a very satisfying and content feeling at the end of the day when everything has gone smoothly. I've always loved customer services roles but being an Office Manager is providing a service to your internal clients – i.e. your staff - and it’s just as rewarding.

What skills and education are essential to your job?
Time management and organisational skills are definitely essential if not mandatory. People skills are important as well and it would not hurt to do a basic Health and Safety course such as NEBOSH. Experience in staff management is recommended as most times you will be managing your receptionist/s.

What advice can you offer someone wanting to become an Office Manager?
You could start off as a Facilities Assistant or a Receptionist. In either of these roles you will be afforded the chance to shadow the Office Manager so you can gain first hand experience. If your manager is on annual leave, offer to take over some of their duties in their absence. The knowledge and experience you will develop is invaluable.

What are the best and worst aspects of your role?
The best aspect of the job is the satisfaction gained from knowing your office is running smoothly and that staff are happy, comfortable and safe in their environment. Being an Office Manager is a bit like being a mum or dad to an office of staff and in that sense it is very rewarding.

Office management can be very confrontational as people will not always agree with your decisions, even if it is in their best interests, so you just need to be able to handle them in a tactful and diplomatic manner. Dealing with vendors can be really frustrating especially when they are not delivering the service expected. Again try to be firm and tactful with them.

Are there any perks to the job?
Perks are great as you are always receiving free lunches from catering companies wanting to get their foot into your door. Most vendors always offer freebies or discounts when they want you to use their services.

What is the end goal in your career?
At some point I would like to qualify as a Senior Facilities Manager. There’s lots of hard work ahead but the journey should be interesting.

Finish this sentence. "This week I have been mostly…”
“…occupied with moving in 2 newly acquired companies."