How to Become a File Clerk

Working as a file clerk can be a solid career or part-time job. The work can be done in a variety of fields, making file clerks readily employable and is generally done under positive conditions in a team environment with other professionals. Records management positions are likely to be found in white-collar establishments that process many customers per year and require maintenance of several hundred files.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Take stock of your assets. You need to be able to read rapidly and well. You also need to be able to reach, stoop and stand or sit for long periods of time.

2. Consider a community college education or evening school education in office administration or office automation to get that extra edge over your competition.

3. Work for a temporary agency in order to build up your resume. Other ways to get experience in clerical functions include volunteering in the offices of non-profit agencies or focusing on clerical tasks present in your current position.

4. Apply to positions in doctor's offices, law firms and insurance companies using local classifieds and online career centers.

5. Extend your horizons. Consider other clerical positions that require the same skills such as receptionist or secretary.

Tips & Warnings

• Expand your clerical skills while on the job. Retail workers have to keep accurate financial records, while food service workers can practice their customer service skills.

• Filing can be tedious work. Make sure your personality is suited for this kind of environment. You must be able to focus on a task for long periods of time without distraction.