General Office Clerks
Overview
General office clerks are the backbone of any workplace, handling a wide variety of tasks that keep businesses running smoothly. You'll answer phones, greet visitors, manage schedules, and organize both digital and paper files using modern office software and communication systems. This role develops strong organizational and communication skills while working in collaborative team environments. Many office clerks work in hybrid settings and can advance to specialized administrative roles with experience.
Did you know?
The American job market for general office clerks is highly competitive due to the large pool of candidates seeking entry-level administrative work.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$42,473.33 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Learning Strategies
Key Responsibilities
- Type, format, proofread, and edit correspondence and other documents, from notes or dictating machines, using computers or typewriters.
- Open, sort, and route incoming mail, answer correspondence, and prepare outgoing mail.
- Collect, count, and disburse money, do basic bookkeeping, and complete banking transactions.
- Count, weigh, measure, or organize materials.
- Answer telephones, direct calls, and take messages.
- Complete and mail bills, contracts, policies, invoices, or checks.
- Maintain and update filing, inventory, mailing, and database systems, either manually or using a computer.
- Prepare meeting agendas, attend meetings, and record and transcribe minutes.
- Review files, records, and other documents to obtain information to respond to requests.
- Compile, copy, sort, and file records of office activities, business transactions, and other activities.
- Train other staff members to perform work activities, such as using computer applications.
- Monitor and direct the work of lower-level clerks.
- Deliver messages and run errands.
- 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.
- Process and prepare documents, such as business or government forms and expense reports.
- Compute, record, and proofread data and other information, such as records or reports.
- Inventory and order materials, supplies, and services.
- Communicate with customers, employees, and other individuals to answer questions, disseminate or explain information, take orders, and address complaints.
- Complete work schedules, manage calendars, and arrange appointments.
Career Considerations
High Competition for Entry-Level Positions
The American job market for general office clerks is highly competitive due to the large pool of candidates seeking entry-level administrative work.
Technology Automation Impact
Many traditional clerical tasks are increasingly automated through software and digital systems, potentially reducing demand for certain clerk functions.
Limited Advancement Without Additional Skills
Career progression from general office clerk roles typically requires developing specialized skills, pursuing additional education, or gaining industry-specific knowledge.