You might want to consider becoming a clerk typist if you are a natural typer who enjoys working in a fast-paced office environment. As a clerk typist, you’ll perform some of the same tasks that secretaries do, with a focus on typing. You may also be asked to answer phones, file, process invoices, and proofread written materials in addition to typing reports, letters, and memos.
If you want to work as a clerk typist, formal education beyond high school is usually not required. These are usually entry-level jobs. Clerk typists work in law or medical offices, insurance companies, and government offices, to name a few. Apply to industries that pique your interest and provide opportunities for advancement if at all possible. You might be able to advance into secretarial positions or other jobs depending on the setting.
You must be able to type quickly while maintaining a high level of accuracy. When applying for a job, never exaggerate your typing abilities. Employers will most likely put you to the test to see how fast you can type. Before applying for a job, you should practice typing and test yourself if necessary. Consider taking a basic keyboarding course if your typing skills are lacking.
You’ll need to be able to do more than just type well to work as a clerk typist. Some employers will demand that you know how to use the computer software programs they use. Because most office documents are compiled using a computer, strong computer skills are required if you want to work as a clerk typist. You’ll have an advantage if you have clerk typist experience and a two-year college degree in a related field.
For proofreading and editing documents, clerk typists must have excellent grammar, spelling, and punctuation skills. Keep in mind that computer programs will not catch every typo, grammatical error, or punctuation mistake. As a clerk typist, it’s your job to look for mistakes and make every document you type look as professional as possible.
Organizing and prioritizing work is also an important part of the job. During the course of a day, you will most likely work with several documents. Every day, you will most likely be working in an office setting. You’ll need good communication skills and the ability to collaborate with others for this.
Alternatively, there are numerous opportunities to work as a clerk typist from home on the Internet. Some of these jobs are legitimate, but others will cost you money or require you to buy equipment. Before agreeing to perform any work, always research the company and its terms of employment.