What are the duties of a secretary?

I’m thinking of getting into a job soon after high school and I heard being a secretary might be a good start, but I don’t know what it involves. Could someone tell me what a secretary typically does in a workplace?

Sure, a secretary plays a vital role in an organizational setup with responsibilities that can be as diverse as the organization itself. Here is a broad description of what the duties of a secretary might be:

1. Manage Schedules and Meetings: Secretaries are usually in charge of managing calendars, scheduling appointments, and organizing meetings. This might include everything from setting up conference calls to planning team outings to arranging director-level meetings.

2. Communication: A large part of a secretary's job often involves correspondence, both internal and external. This can include responding to emails, answering phone calls, taking meeting minutes, and distributing necessary updates or information to members of the team.

3. Documentation & Record Keeping: Secretaries are often called upon to maintain records, manage databases, and carry out basic bookkeeping tasks. This could also involve drafting letters, editing reports, or storing documents efficiently.

4. General Administrative Duties: These might include tasks like sorting mail, ordering office supplies, setting up new workstations, or helping visitors navigate the office.

5. Assisting the Management: Very often, the secretary supports the management team by conducting research, handling queries, and following up on action items.

Keep in mind that the exact responsibilities may vary depending on the company's size, industry, and the specific job description for the role. It's also worth noting that the role generally requires strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in office software like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace.