What they do
Office managers organise, and supervise the activities and resources of offices in all industry types. They control the management of administrative systems and oversee the activities of office personnel. They may supervise specific projects and the people working on them or ensure that particular processes are in place so that the office, and its business runs smoothly. They may manage people, physical resources, budgets, or other forms of information.
Working conditions
As office managers work for many different organisation types, they may work anywhere throughout the state, from large office buildings in Perth's bustling CBD through to smaller offices in country towns. Their work is almost always indoors and may involve the use of computers or forms of information management like filing systems or databases. As offices are almost always group environments, office managers require the skills needed to work with a range of people from different backgrounds. Long hours may be required and/or travel may be required.
Tools and technologies
Managers work in offices, and are therefore required to be familiar with computers, photocopiers, fax machines, telephone and messaging systems, and other generalised office equipment. They will also generally require experience with a range of software, including word processing software, data processing and spreadsheet software, and any other programs that may be relevant to their area of business.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become an office manager, you usually need either significant prior experience, or to gain a qualification in management, business, commerce or a related field.
The Certificate IV in Business, Certificate IV in Business Administration, Diploma of Business, Diploma of Business Administration, and Diploma of Leadership and Management are offered at TAFE Colleges and registered training organisations throughout Western Australia
Browse courses through Jobs and Skills WA and search on the My Skills website to find a registered provider near you.
You can also complete a traineeship in business (level 4) or business administration (level 4). The traineeships usually take 12 months to complete.
You can complete a business or commerce degree majoring in management at university.
All universities in Western Australia offer relevant courses. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.