GENERAL OFFICE CLERK

The duties of general office clerks are too varied and diverse for them to be classified in any specific administrative support occupation. Rather than performing a single specialized task, the duties of a general office clerk change with the needs of their employer. Some may spend their days filing or typing; others enter data at a computer terminal. They also may operate photocopiers, fax machines or other office equipment; prepare mailings; proofread copy; and answer telephones and deliver messages.

Duties vary significantly depending upon the office in which a clerk works. A general office clerk in a doctor's office may not perform the same tasks as a clerk in a large financial institution or in the office of an auto parts wholesaler. Although they all may sort checks, keep payroll records, take inventory or access information, they may also perform duties unique to their employer, such as organizing medications, making transparencies for a presentation or filling orders received by fax machine (see also Medical Administration, Accounting, and Travel and Hospitality).

Duties also vary by level of experience. Inexperienced employees may make photocopies, stuff envelopes, or record inquiries. Experienced clerks might maintain financial or other records, verify statistical reports for accuracy and completeness, handle and adjust customer complaints, make travel arrangements, take inventory of equipment and supplies, answer questions on departmental services and functions, or help prepare invoices or budgetary requests. In addition, senior general office clerks may be expected to oversee and direct the work of lower level clerks (see also Clerical Supervisor/Office Manager).

SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS

For the most part, working conditions for general office clerks are the same as those for other office employees within the same company. Those on a full-time schedule usually work a standard 40-hour week. Some may work shifts or overtime during busy periods and about 1 in 3 works part time. In addition, many general office clerks work as temporaries.

Because general office clerks usually work with other office staff, they should be cooperative and be able to work as part of a team. They should have good communication skills and pay close attention to details. They must also be willing to change with the needs of the work environment or take on additional responsibilities. Clerks who have computer word-processing skills and other secretarial skills, and knowledge of the operation of basic office machinery, such as fax machines and copiers, should have the best opportunities.

Most general office clerk jobs are entry level administrative support positions, although previous office or business experience may be required. Employers usually require a high school diploma, and some require typing, basic computer skills and other general office skills. Familiarity with computer word processing software and applications is becoming increasingly important.

Training for this occupation is available through business education programs offered in high schools, community and junior colleges, and postsecondary vocational schools. Courses in word-processing, computer applications and office practices are particularly helpful.

General office clerks who exhibit strong communication, interpersonal and analytical skills may be promoted to supervisory positions. Others may move into different, more senior clerical or administrative jobs, such as receptionist, secretary or administrative assistant. After gaining some work experience or specialized skills, many workers often transfer to jobs with higher pay or greater advancement potential. Advancement to professional occupations within an establishment usually requires more formal education, including a college degree.

Median annual earnings of full-time general office clerks were about $19,300 in 1996; the middle 50 percent earned between $15,300 and $26,200 annually. Ten percent earned less than $12,400, and 10 percent more than $34,600.

According to a survey of workplaces in 160 metropolitan areas, beginning general office clerks had median annual earnings of about $14,200 in 1995, with the middle half earning about $12,500 to $16,400 a year. The most experienced general office clerks had median annual earnings of about $25,300, with the middle half earning between about $21,800 and $29,000 a year. General office clerks' salaries varied by industry.

In early 1997, the Federal Government paid general office clerks a starting salary of between $16,710 and $21,720 a year, depending on education and experience. General office clerks employed by the Federal Government earned an average annual salary of about $26,350.

General office clerks held about 3,111,000 jobs in 1996. Most are employed in relatively small businesses. Although they work in every sector of the economy, almost 60 percent worked in the services or wholesale and retail trade industries.

Employment of general office clerks is expected to grow slower than the national average for all occupations through the year 2006. Nonetheless, good job opportunities should continue to exist. Due to the large size and the high turnover associated with these positions, the occupation will continue to produce a large number of job openings.

Increasing use of computers and expanding office automation mean a wider variety of duties can be performed by fewer office workers. As more small businesses consolidate their clerical staffs and job responsibilities become more diverse, it is common to find a single general office clerk in charge of all clerical work. However, as duties expand, employers will seek workers with more advanced computer skills and a broader range of office experience. Because they must be so versatile, general office clerks find work in virtually every kind of industry. In addition, they should find many opportunities for part-time or temporary work, especially during peak business periods in industries where these jobs are concentrated.