Education · 1 of 4

The path

Hired first, trained on the job, promoted on reliability. Formal schooling is optional but speeds it up.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   The one real requirement for most openings. Take business, accounting and computer courses if your school offers them.

2. 2

   First office job

   Right after school

   Receptionist, file clerk, scheduler, data entry. Temp agencies are a normal and effective way in.

3. 3

   Optional certificate or associate degree

   1 to 2 years

   A one-year certificate or two-year associate degree in office administration or business from a community college. Often taken at night while working.

4. 4

   Become the one who knows the systems

   2 to 4 years

   Learn the scheduling, billing and records software better than anyone. This, more than any credential, is what gets you promoted.

5. 5

   Office manager or executive assistant

   5 years in

   Running the office, managing vendors and budgets, or supporting a senior leader directly.