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Secretary

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Secretaries manage schedules, communication, and administrative tasks. They are vital for organizational efficiency and smooth operations in any industry.

Average Salary

₹3,00,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Secretary

To pursue a career as a secretary in India, several educational paths can be followed. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

  • High School Diploma:
    • A basic requirement is completing 10+2 from a recognized board. A background in commerce or arts can be beneficial but is not always mandatory.
  • Bachelor's Degree:
    • A bachelor's degree in any field can enhance job prospects. Common choices include:
      • BA in English
      • BA in Economics
      • B.Com (Bachelor of Commerce)
      • BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
  • Diploma Courses:
    • Several diploma courses can provide specific skills needed for secretarial roles:
      • Diploma in Secretarial Practice
      • Diploma in Office Management
      • Diploma in Computer Applications
  • Specific Skill Development:
    • Typing and Shorthand: Essential for efficient note-taking and transcription.
    • Computer Skills: Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), email management, and other relevant software.
    • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are crucial.
    • Organizational Skills: Ability to manage schedules, documents, and office operations effectively.
  • Advanced Degrees (Optional):
    • While not always necessary, a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related field can open doors to higher-level administrative positions.

Key Skills to Acquire

  • Technical Skills: Typing speed, shorthand, computer proficiency.
  • Soft Skills: Communication, organization, time management, problem-solving.

Certification

  • Certifications in specific software or administrative skills can enhance your resume and demonstrate your commitment to professional development.
Study Path
Top Colleges

Top Colleges and Institutes for Aspiring Secretaries in India

To excel as a secretary, consider these top institutions offering relevant courses:

  • Diploma and Certificate Courses:
    • YMCA Institute, Delhi: Offers diploma courses in office management and secretarial practice.
    • NIIT: Provides various computer and IT skills certifications beneficial for secretarial roles.
    • Aptech Computer Education: Offers courses in MS Office and other essential software.
  • Bachelor's Degree Programs:
    • Lady Shri Ram College (LSR), Delhi: Known for its BA programs in various fields.
    • Hindu College, Delhi: Offers BA and B.Com programs.
    • Narsee Monjee College of Commerce & Economics, Mumbai: Renowned for its B.Com program.
    • Christ University, Bangalore: Offers BBA and other relevant undergraduate programs.
  • Master's Degree Programs:
    • Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs): Offer MBA programs for advanced management skills.
    • Faculty of Management Studies (FMS), Delhi: Provides MBA programs.
    • Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies (JBIMS), Mumbai: Offers MBA programs.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Institute

  • Course Curriculum: Ensure the curriculum covers essential skills like typing, shorthand, computer proficiency, and communication.
  • Faculty Expertise: Look for experienced and qualified instructors.
  • Placement Opportunities: Check the institute's placement record and industry connections.
  • Infrastructure: Ensure the institute has adequate facilities, including computer labs and libraries.
  • Accreditation: Verify that the institute is recognized and accredited by relevant authorities.
Fees

The fees for courses related to becoming a secretary in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution, course duration, and level of specialization. Here’s a general overview:

  • Diploma Courses:
    • Government Institutes: INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year.
  • Bachelor's Degrees (BA, B.Com, BBA):
    • Government Colleges: INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 per year.
    • Private Colleges: INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000 per year.
  • Master's Degrees (MBA):
    • Government Institutes: INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: INR 1,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 per year.
  • Certification Courses:
    • Online Platforms (e.g., Coursera, Udemy): INR 2,000 to INR 10,000 per course.
    • Private Training Centers: INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per course.

Additional Costs

  • Study Materials: Textbooks, notebooks, and online resources.
  • Examination Fees: Fees for certification exams.
  • Travel and Accommodation: If studying away from home.

Tips to Manage Costs

  • Scholarships: Look for scholarships offered by government and private organizations.
  • Educational Loans: Explore education loan options from banks.
  • Installment Payments: Check if the institute offers installment payment plans.
Related Exams

To become a secretary, there aren't specific entrance exams like those for engineering or medicine. However, certain certifications and skill-based assessments can significantly enhance your career prospects. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Typing and Shorthand Tests:
    • Many employers conduct typing and shorthand tests to assess speed and accuracy. These tests are crucial for roles requiring efficient transcription and documentation.
  • Computer Proficiency Tests:
    • Assessments in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and other relevant software are common. Certifications like Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) can be beneficial.
  • Government Certifications:
    • Some government-recognized certifications in secretarial practice and office management can add value to your resume.
  • Language Proficiency Tests:
    • For roles requiring strong communication skills, language proficiency tests (especially in English) may be conducted.
  • Aptitude Tests:
    • Some companies use aptitude tests to evaluate problem-solving, reasoning, and organizational skills.

How to Prepare

  • Practice Typing and Shorthand: Regular practice is key to improving speed and accuracy.
  • Enhance Computer Skills: Take courses or online tutorials to master MS Office and other relevant software.
  • Improve Communication Skills: Focus on both written and verbal communication, and practice active listening.
  • Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest office technologies and administrative practices.
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Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. Stable job with regular hours.
  2. Opportunity to develop strong organizational skills.
  3. Exposure to various aspects of business operations.
  4. Chance to work closely with executives.
  5. Good career growth with experience.
  6. Develop communication and interpersonal skills.
  7. Opportunities in diverse industries.
  8. Job security and benefits.

Cons

  1. Can be repetitive and routine.
  2. May involve administrative tasks.
  3. Requires sitting for long periods.
  4. Limited decision-making authority.
  5. Can be stressful during peak times.
  6. May require overtime.
  7. Salary may be limited initially.
  8. Dealing with difficult personalities.