Ict competencies required by modern secretaries in the banking industry or organizations

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The role of secretaries in the banking industry and organizations has evolved significantly with the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into daily operations. This study aims to identify the ICT competencies required by modern secretaries working in the banking sector or organizations. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining a comprehensive literature review with primary data collected through surveys and interviews. The literature review explores the changing nature of secretarial roles in the digital age, highlighting the increasing reliance on ICT tools for communication, organization, and information management. It also discusses the shift towards more proactive and strategic functions for secretaries, requiring a broader skill set that includes ICT competencies such as proficiency in office software, data management, online collaboration tools, and digital communication platforms. The primary research involves surveys distributed to secretaries working in various banking institutions and organizations to assess their current ICT skills and identify areas for improvement. Additionally, interviews are conducted with senior managers and HR professionals to understand their perspectives on the importance of ICT competencies for secretaries in the modern workplace. The findings suggest that modern secretaries in the banking industry and organizations require a diverse range of ICT competencies to effectively perform their roles. These include proficiency in using office productivity software such as Microsoft Office suite, email management systems, and online scheduling tools. Furthermore, secretaries need to be adept at data management, including organizing and analyzing information using spreadsheets and databases. Moreover, the research highlights the growing importance of digital communication skills for secretaries, including the ability to use online collaboration platforms, video conferencing tools, and social media for professional purposes. The study also reveals a need for secretaries to have basic knowledge of cybersecurity practices to protect sensitive information and maintain data privacy. Overall, this research contributes to the understanding of the ICT competencies required by modern secretaries in the banking industry and organizations. By identifying these key skills, organizations can provide targeted training and development opportunities to empower secretaries to excel in their roles and adapt to the evolving technological landscape.