Education · 1 of 4

The path

Short schooling, quick hiring, then you learn the specific office.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Job Bank says secondary school is required. English, business and computer courses help most.

2. 2

   Certificate or diploma

   1 to 2 years

   A 1-year Office Administration, General certificate or a 2-year diploma at a college. You learn Word, Excel, bookkeeping basics, records and customer service. Many programs include a placement.

3. 3

   First job

   Right after school

   Receptionist, office assistant or administrative assistant. Small companies hire fast.

4. 4

   Office administrator or manager

   2 to 5 years

   After 2 to 5 years you run the office: supplies, vendors, schedules, onboarding, sometimes budgets and staff. Job Bank notes some employers want a business degree or project management training for the senior roles.