What do I need to know before considering a clerical or office job?
Asked by Jo
As of now I work at Blockbuster but I'm only seasonal so after the 15th I have no job. I've worked at a restaurant for five years as a cook, waitress, baker and cashier. Then I worked at CVS for almost a year as a cashier, photo tech and pharmacy assistant. What things should I know or learn before applying for a clerical job, also any tips to get hired would be great. Is it also possible that I could get paid more than $6.50 an hour, I live in South Texas. Thanks in advance.

Best Answer:
There are basically two kinds of office jobs - receptionist and skilled assistant. Some things you will want to be familiar with are: operating a multi-line phone, operating a copy machine, operating a fax machine. basic computer and word processing skills, you should be able to type 60+ words a minute. The most successful clerical workers are well-organized, and able to work well on their own. For reception work, you need to be pleasant and patient. For skilled work - it really depends on the type of office you are working for. For example if you work in a law office, you would need to become familiar with the legal procedures and specific filing methods. For success in getting hired, I recommend you make sure your resume is neat, well organized, and has no errors. You will want to gain a potential employer's confidence that you will be a good assistant. Emphasize your experience that requires attention to detail (pharmacy work), and also ability to work independently, and also to work well with others. it wouldn't hurt to take some assisting classes at a local community college, or to volunteer to work at a place to get some experience. Good assistants can certainly make more than $6.50. You probably will need to prove yourself though before getting a higher pay.
I have worked in as an attorney in my own office for many years and have employed a number of clerical assists.
Answered by akamom

As to pay, it depends on the job and the company. Your wardrobe will probably have to be upgraded a notch (again, depending on the type of office). It can be boring. You should have office skills--computer, typing, spread sheets, etc.
Answered by tonalc1

An office job may seem like a nice change from a waitressing job but take a few things into consideration - as an assistant you are the lowest person on the totem pole advancing to the next level may take as many as 3 years you might not get a bonus at the end of the year Most offie jobs start at just $8/hr - you can make way more money waitressing, and the the horrible boss (customer) goes away/in an office - a terrible boss is there EVERY day... clerical jobs are not all that they are cracked up to be trust me
Answered by dolitza