Traditional Clerical Work

The term clerical work is often attached to the lowest of administrative support positions. However, clerks perform important work in every sector of the economy. Several entry level administrative and secretarial positions require clerical work. This frequently includes distributing mail and answering phone calls. Other duties traditionally related with clerking include: typing, copying and collating, sorting and filing, record keeping, scheduling of appointments, minor bookkeeping, data entry and low level public relations.

The above duties have been subject to improvement with developments in technology. At present, clerical work is assumed to include the operation of sophisticated computer systems, copiers, printers and other peripherals. Clerks must be well-known with the software suitable to their jobs. In some cases, they might need to be capable of maintaining the computer hardware.   

Clerks who work in business have several roles. In large organizations, there might be several clerks doing the same job. For example, 25 clerks could work in an organization and in a small business; one person could be used for 2 or more positions. Other clerical jobs in business include: general office work, file, mail, payroll, personnel, procurement and statistical clerk.

Clerical work is an important part at all levels of a government job. These jobs could correspond closely to those in business. Other well known government clerical positions include municipal clerks, court clerks, library and license clerks.

People who perform clerical work in an office generally pursue either an administrative assistant certificate program or an associate of applied science in administrative assistance. These programs develop clerical skills and increase an individual’s chance of getting employment.