As the world has become more and more digitalised, workplaces have had to embrace technology to keep up. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the office, where the role of the administrator has undergone significant transformation. In this blog we will look at the evolution of administrative roles in the digital age and how you can make sure you keep up with developments. 

How have Administrative Roles Changed in the Digital Age?

At one time, administrators were seen as the backbone of a company, quietly performing their administrative duties in the background. Today, administrators are at the forefront of the technological revolution, driving system and cultural change in the workplace. If they previously played a supporting role, they are now the ones shaping the future of the modern workplace. Here’s how administrative roles are changing in the digital era:

• From paper to pixels

Perhaps the most noticeable evolution of administrative roles in the digital age is the move from paper to PC. Cloud-based management systems and instant messaging platforms have replaced filing cabinets and handwritten memos. Administrative staff not only have to know their way around a computer, but they should be driving these digital migrations.

• The new digital literacy rules

Administrative roles are increasingly being migrated to digital roles so it follows that administrators need to be tech-savvy. As well as knowing their way around computer programmes such as the Microsoft Office Suite, administrators will need to be au fait with virtual communication tools, messaging systems, project management systems and data analytics software.

• Communication goes viral

Effective communication is vital for administrative staff in this digital age. Communication tools have evolved so that the whole staff team can stay connected and collaborate on projects, wherever they are based. Whether it’s via instant messaging apps, virtual meeting platforms, or project management tools, communication in the digital age makes it easy to coordinate tasks and maintain a smooth flow of information.

• Embracing AI integration

Administrative tasks used to be defined as being repetitive and time-consuming but AI and automation is changing that definition. Administrative professionals need to embrace AI and look for opportunities where automation can be applied, such as email scheduling, data entry, report generation, and appointment scheduling. Working alongside AI, administrative professionals can focus on higher-value administrative tasks and implementing strategic initiatives. 

• A focus on security

Anyone working in administration knows the importance of confidentiality and document security. In the digital age, administrators have moved on from locked filing cabinets to becoming the gatekeepers of digital security for their company. Understanding cybersecurity best practices, recognising potential threats, and ensuring the privacy and integrity of digital assets are now integral aspects of the administrative role. 

• It’s all in the detail

Administrative work has always needed precision and accuracy, perhaps now more than ever. With so much administration now taking place online, on documents that colleagues can change and edit, and with so many applications to work with, administrative staff need to have an even keener eye for detail. It would be wise for administrative staff to implement processes for reviewing work at strategic stages of each project. 

• Professional development and training

A key area of change for administrative roles in the digital age is that of professional development. Technology doesn’t stand still and new computer programmes and apps are being developed all the time to try to make administrative tasks more efficient. Administrative staff should take advantage of these developments by staying abreast of industry changes and attending webinars and training courses. That way they get to be the driving force behind the evolution of administrative roles in the digital era!

If you are looking for an administrative role in the digital age, take a look at our current job  vacancies. And get in touch with one of our recruitment specialists if you would like help brushing up your administrative or digital skills.