Introduction
An office manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an office. They are in charge of managing administrative tasks such as budgeting, payroll, and scheduling, as well as maintaining office supplies, equipment, and furniture. The goal of this article is to explore how much an office manager can expect to make in terms of salary.
An Overview of Office Manager Salaries
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for office managers in 2019 was $58,850. The lowest 10% earned less than $36,230 while the highest 10% earned more than $98,330. This wide range of salaries suggests that there are a number of factors influencing how much an office manager can expect to make.
Examining the Factors Influencing Office Manager Pay
Experience: Generally speaking, the more experience an office manager has, the higher their salary will be. This is because experienced professionals have likely acquired more skills and knowledge that make them more valuable to employers.
Education: A formal education in business administration or a related field can also have a positive impact on an office manager’s salary. Employers may be willing to pay more for candidates with a degree, particularly if they possess relevant technical skills.
Location: In addition to experience and education, where an office manager works can also affect their salary. For example, office managers in larger cities tend to earn more than those in smaller towns due to a greater demand for their services.
Additional certifications: Certain certifications, such as the Certified Professional Manager (CPM) from the Institute of Certified Professional Managers, can also increase an office manager’s earning potential. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to the profession and often result in higher pay.
A Comparison of Office Manager Salaries Across Industries
Office managers can work in a variety of industries, each of which may offer different salary levels. Here is a look at some of the most common industries for office managers and the associated salary ranges:
Healthcare: According to the BLS, the median annual salary for office managers in the healthcare industry was $63,590 in 2019. The lowest 10% earned less than $41,970 while the highest 10% earned more than $97,270.
Retail: The median annual salary for office managers in the retail industry was $44,920 in 2019. The lowest 10% earned less than $29,460 while the highest 10% earned more than $72,570.
Technology: The median annual salary for office managers in the technology industry was $67,790 in 2019. The lowest 10% earned less than $42,540 while the highest 10% earned more than $102,550.
Manufacturing: The median annual salary for office managers in the manufacturing industry was $55,620 in 2019. The lowest 10% earned less than $35,420 while the highest 10% earned more than $91,870.
What Does an Average Office Manager Make?
The average salary for an office manager in the United States is $58,850 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on experience, education, location, and other factors. It is important to note that office managers in certain industries and locations may be able to command higher salaries than the national average.
How to Maximize Your Earnings as an Office Manager
If you want to maximize your earnings as an office manager, there are a few steps you can take. First, be sure to negotiate your salary when possible. Many employers are willing to negotiate, so it is worth asking for more money if you feel you are being underpaid. Second, consider investing in additional education and training to enhance your skills and make yourself more attractive to employers. Finally, don’t be afraid to pursue advancement opportunities. Even if you are happy in your current role, advancing to a higher-paying position can have a significant impact on your overall earnings.
Conclusion
Office managers play an important role in the day-to-day operations of businesses and organizations. Their salaries can vary greatly depending on experience, education, location, and other factors. On average, office managers in the United States earn about $58,850 per year. To maximize your earnings as an office manager, consider negotiating your salary, investing in additional education and training, and pursuing advancement opportunities.
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