Interview questions for Office Assistant

An Overview

Office Assistants are found in all types of industries. This is usually an entry-level position with wide-ranging support duties. Great office assistants are curious, diligent and have the attitude that no job is too small. Some tasks, such as data entry, report preparation, calendar management require proficiency with workplace software such as Microsoft Office. Rarely is an office assistant in charge of everything, but the best ones could be. They’re smart, efficient, skilled, reliable and always improving, but, of course, they’re hard to find. During the interview process, everything will come down to what you can learn about your candidates through interview questions.

1. Why should we choose you over our next candidate for office assistant?

It’s important that your office assistant is able to work well on their own without excessive direction and training. After all, it’s their job to make things easier for the rest of the staff. Although they will require some degree of training to understand the intricacies of your specific office protocols and industry standards, the trick is finding someone capable of adapting accordingly. What to look for in an answer:
• Honesty about unique qualities that set them apart
• Knowledge of the skills needed for the job you’re hiring for
• Confidence in their response

2. What office-related software are you proficient with?

An office assistant is able to use various standard communication software, such as – emailing tools, Messenger, and Skype. Moreover, he/she is able to type and be proficient in Word, Office, PowerPoint, Excel, etc

3. What are your favorite things about being an office assistant?

The last thing you want to do is hire someone who is just seeking any new job. You want to hire a career-driven applicant who has goals to grow within your organization. You need a motivated person who truly enjoys helping your company move in the desired direction and serving as an integral driver for that growth. What to look for in an answer:
• A genuine love for office work
• Interests that align with your industry
• An understanding of how your company works
Example: “I am detailed oriented and proud that my organization of schedules, events and files helps the office stay organized. It’s a great feeling knowing that I make a difference in the big picture. I work hard to push toward company goals and help the entire team stay productive.”

4. What are significant characteristics for a successful office assistant?

Besides time management and cleanliness, an office assistant has excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively coordinate activities between the office manager and his business colleagues, present reports, send and answer emails, etc.

5. What office-related software are you proficient with?

An office assistant is able to use various standard communication software, such as – emailing tools, Messenger, and Skype. Moreover, he/she is able to type and be proficient in Word, Office, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.

6. What types of computer software are you proficient with and comfortable using?

In the modern office, it’s generally expected that an office assistant is capable and comfortable using multiple types of computer software. Ideally, you want to hire an candidate who has plenty of experience using the programs your company relies on.
• Confidence in using necessary software
• Track record of using this software continuously in their work
Example: “I’m proficient with Microsoft Office tools and Google docs. I used Salesforce in my last job, and before that I used Zoho. I’m a quick learner and can adapt to new software and technical tools as necessary.”

7. What kind of documents do you have experience writing?

Office assistants typically write any or all of the following: thank-you letters, newsletters, labels, donor and annual reports, emails, messages, fax messages, etc.

8. Do you work well under pressure?

I work well under pressure because I schedule my day the day before which lets me be flexible.

9. How reliable of a worker are you?

• Prompt and able to work with little supervision.

• I don’t miss work unless I’m sick or there is an emergency. I’m very reliable.

• A quality should be a admin to maintain with our worker.

• I am a very reliable and dependable employee, my last 3 evaluations have stated how I am always prepared and focused.

• I am a relliable worker by coming in on time and doing the work I am suppose to do.