Secretarial Jobs Can Get Career Going, College Graduates Told

College graduates looking for work in a tight job market should consider the often underrated positions of secretary or administrative assistant, a survey shows.

A survey by Adia Personnel Services of college placement directors at 50 major universities showed that 64% thought that “a secretarial or administrative position was a viable entry-level job for a college graduate.” Nearly half of the directors said such a job depends on other factors, such as the person, employer or field.

“College grads should consider non-traditional opportunities when looking for their first job,” said Walter W. Macauley, president and chief executive officer of Adia, a large personnel placement firm.

The survey also indicated that students should seek positions at small and medium-size businesses.

“The growth of our economy is being fueled by new jobs at smaller companies, not expansions by large corporations. Secretarial and administrative assistant positions at these smaller, entrepreneurial companies can offer tremendous opportunity for aggressive, resourceful grads.”

The survey showed that the average college graduate takes four months to find a first job.

Other recent research confirms the dismal job outlook facing this year’s graduates. The College Placement Council revealed in its annual “CPC Salary Survey” released last week that there was a 24% drop in job offers for graduates in June, 1987, compared to one year ago.

Most college placement directors thought it was better to be gainfully employed in an upwardly mobile position than waiting months for the “perfect job.”

“Today’s graduates have to broaden their search to reflect where today’s jobs are and take the initiative in seeking out the right position,” Macauley said.

“A graduate is much better off taking a secretarial or administrative job where he or she can gain valuable business experience, self-confidence and problem-solving skills,” he said. “This exposure, particularly in small firms, can lead to rapid advancement or opportunities with other companies.”

The survey noted that Small Business Administration officials said that three-fourths of U.S. jobs today are provided by small businesses--employers with fewer than 500 employees.