Clerical Work Description
Clerical work is done in every kind of business and industry. The type of clerical work will vary by industry and office, but the need for qualified clerical staff is a constant. Often looked upon as entry level, even menial work, workers in the clerical field are important members of any business because without them many tasks would not be completed, and though they seem unimportant, these tasks are vital to the effective operation of a business.
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Types of Work
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Clerical work includes typing, filing, mail delivery, courier service, process service, phone work and general secretarial functions. In larger offices, these duties are separated into departments. In smaller offices, one or two people might be responsible for all clerical duties.
Education Requirement
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For most clerical position, a high school diploma or equivalent meets the minimum requirements. However, many new college graduates find themselves starting out in a clerical position before moving up the ranks into the position in which they were trained. Some offices require their clerical staff to have a certificate or associate's degree in office or business administration, particularly if the office has a specialization in a certain field.
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Work Environment
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Generally, clerical work is done in an office setting. Depending on the type of clerical work being completed, the environment could be fast paced or more low key. For example, a mail clerk in a Fortune 500 company might be expected to have all mail delivered within a narrow time frame, so his position would be considered fast paced, while a file clerk for a CPA firm might be able to work at a more leisurely pace.
Misconceptions
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It is sometimes assumed that people who work in the clerical field do so because they are not qualified for other positions. This is not necessarily the case. Though some clerical workers are not qualified for other positions in a company, some workers are just waiting for the opportunity to prove how their other skills can contribute to the company. They take clerical positions as a "foot in the door" and work their way up through the ranks.
Breaking In
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Overall office skills such as typing, filing and phone skills are general requirements. For mailroom work, the ability to operate different types of machinery is helpful. Experience with different types of filing methods and computer skills are also assets. To start working in the clerical field, contracting with a job placement agency could be helpful. These agencies specialize in matching workers with companies looking for help. A temporary job can often lead to a permanent offer of employment.
Salary
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A clerical worker's salary will vary depending on the job description, the size of the company, the industry and the geographical location of the job. According to CBSalary, the U.S. national average for clerical workers is $30,415.
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References
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