Experience Pre-entry experience is essential Administrative experience and voluntary work are essential. Gain administrative experience through permanent or temporary work in a commercial company or public organisation. Special entry requirements Secretarial skills and computer literacy are required. Strong organisational ability is essential. Age implications Entry problems may be encountered from after early 50s Maturity and breadth of experience is valuable.
Personal qualities are more important than age.
Competition Competition is quite strong for permanent posts because there are few vacancies and usually a number of applicants with relevant experience. Recent graduates without relevant experience are unlikely to succeed. Tips for entry Contact local organisations and volunteer bureaus to get voluntary work. Volunteers benefit from access to internal vacancy lists. Although vacancies are advertised externally, internal applicants are favoured as candidates must demonstrate a detailed understanding of the post and how the organisation works.