Will “Clerical Assistant” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Type, format, proofread, and edit correspondence and other documents, from notes or dictating machines, using computers or typewriters.

• Inventory and order materials, supplies, and services.

• Compile, copy, sort, and file records of office activities, business transactions, and other activities.

• Deliver messages and run errands.

• Open, sort, and route incoming mail, answer correspondence, and prepare outgoing mail.

• Communicate with customers, employees, and other individuals to answer questions, disseminate or explain information, take orders, and address complaints.

• Complete and mail bills, contracts, policies, invoices, or checks.

• Review files, records, and other documents to obtain information to respond to requests.

• Troubleshoot problems involving office equipment, such as computer hardware and software.

• Operate office machines, such as photocopiers and scanners, facsimile machines, voice mail systems, and personal computers.

• Compute, record, and proofread data and other information, such as records or reports.

• Collect, count, and disburse money, do basic bookkeeping, and complete banking transactions.

• Answer telephones, direct calls, and take messages.

• Count, weigh, measure, or organize materials.

• Monitor and direct the work of lower-level clerks.

• Maintain and update filing, inventory, mailing, and database systems, either manually or using a computer.

• Complete work schedules, manage calendars, and arrange appointments.

• Process and prepare documents, such as business or government forms and expense reports.

• Prepare meeting agendas, attend meetings, and record and transcribe minutes.

• Train other staff members to perform work activities, such as using computer applications.