Typist

What is the work like?

As a typist or word processor operator, you would use a computer to produce letters, reports and other documents.

You could produce documents in any of the following ways:

• copy typing – working from hand-written notes
• audio typing – typing whilst listening to spoken notes that have been dictated onto audio tape
• shorthand typing – taking notes in shorthand then typing up the information later from their notes.

Some larger organisations may employ you only to type documents, but in most jobs you would also carry out other administrative duties, such as:

• working with computer spreadsheets and databases
• answering the telephone
• handling enquiries
• using office equipment like photocopiers, faxes and franking machines
• dealing with post and emails
• filing.

What qualifications and experience will employers look for?

You may not need academic qualifications to work as a typist, although employers usually ask for a good standard of general education, and you may have an advantage with GCSE (A-D) in English, or qualifications of a similar level.

You must have good keyboard skills, and previous experience of office work is useful, perhaps from temporary work ('temping').

Employers may prefer you to have a recognised qualification in administration or secretarial skills, so you may find it useful to take a college course before looking for administrative work. Most local colleges offer a wide range of full- and part-time courses, leading to certificates and diplomas from awarding bodies such as City & Guilds, OCR (RSA), Edexcel or Education Development International.

You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. To find out more Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

What further training and development can I do?

When you start work as a typist, your employer will train you in company procedures and any in-house computer systems.

You may also get the chance to take qualifications in word processing and other office skills. Relevant qualifications include:

• Education Development International LCCI certificates in Audio Transcription and Text Production
• OCR Basic, Intermediate and Advanced certificates, including Audio Transcription, Text Production, Speed Keying and Word Processing
• City & Guilds certificates, including Audio Transcription, Keyboarding, Text Production Skills and Typewriting
• NVQ levels 1 and 2 in Business and Administration.

NVQs in Business and Administration are also available at levels 3 and 4, which are suitable if you have supervisory or management duties.

Where can I go for more information?

6 Graphite Square
Vauxhall Walk
London
SE11 5EE
Tel: 020 7091 9620

Tel: 020 7294 2800

Tel: 024 7685 1509

International House
Siskin Parkway East
Middlemarch Business Park
Coventry
CV3 4PE
Tel: 0870 720 2909

If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form

Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice

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