How to hire entry-level admin assistants in the UK
Administrative assistants are the backbone of many businesses, keeping operations running smoothly, managing schedules and handling essential tasks. But when it comes to hiring entry-level admin assistants, UK employers often face the same challenges: too many irrelevant CVs, unclear skills and a slow hiring process.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to hiring entry-level administrative assistants in the UK quickly and effectively.
Why Admin Assistants Are in High Demand
Admin roles are often the first point of contact for clients and internal teams. They require a mix of organisational skills, communication ability and tech literacy. According to Indeed UK, demand for administrative assistants remains strong across sectors, especially in office-based roles.
Step 1: Define the Role Clearly
Before posting your vacancy, outline the core responsibilities and must-have skills. For entry-level admin assistants, these typically include:
- Organisation: Managing calendars, scheduling meetings.
- Communication: Clear written and verbal skills.
- Tech skills: Microsoft Office, email platforms, basic data entry.
- Attention to detail: Accuracy in handling documents and tasks.
Step 2: Offer a Competitive Salary
Salary transparency speeds up hiring and builds trust. Here’s what UK employers typically pay for entry-level admin roles:
Role | Salary Range |
Administrative Assistant | £20,000–£25,000 |
Office Administrator | £21,000–£26,000 |
Receptionist/Admin | £19,000–£23,000 |
(Sources: Indeed UK, Glassdoor)
Step 3: Use Skills-Based Assessments
CVs often fail to show whether a candidate can handle real-world admin tasks. Instead, use practical assessments such as:
- Data entry exercise: Check accuracy and speed.
- Email drafting: Assess tone and clarity.
- Scheduling task: Test organisational ability.
This approach is fairer, reduces bias and helps you identify candidates who can perform from day one.
Step 4: Post Your Role Where It Counts
General job boards can work, but they often lead to application overload. For faster, better results:
- Use specialist platforms that focus on entry-level talent.
- Look for tools that pre-verify skills and match candidates instantly.
- Avoid platforms that rely solely on CVs, they slow you down.
Step 5: Move Fast and Communicate Clearly
Entry-level candidates often apply to multiple roles. To secure the best talent:
- Shortlist within 48 hours.
- Keep candidates updated: even automated messages help.
- Streamline interviews: one or two stages max.
How Day One Makes It Easy
With Day One, you can hire entry-level admin assistants in minutes, not weeks:
- Pre-verified skills: Candidates are assessed for digital and soft skills before you see them.
- Instant matches: Post your role and get a shortlist immediately.
- Bias-free profiles: Skills and values only, no names or photos.
- Affordable pricing: From just £349/month, with unlimited job posts.
Start hiring now
Skip the CV pile. Post your role today and meet candidates who are ready for day one.
Q: How fast can I hire with Day One?
You’ll see instant matches as soon as you post your role.
Q: Do you cover remote or hybrid roles?
Yes, any office-based role that uses a computer in some capacity
Q: Do admin assistants need prior experience?
No, many employers hire based on skills and potential rather than experience.