In today's offices, there are a number of skills and standard computer programs that a clerical worker is required to know. This may include keyboarding, the use of a PC or Mac, word processing programs, spreadsheet programs, database programs, PDF creation software, email clients, use of a multi-line telephone, use of a fax machine, desktop publishing, producing business documents as well as good communication and presentation skills. In certain settings, clerical workers are also expected to know basic HTML, use of social media and payroll processes. Through clerical training, you can gain the knowledge, develop the skills and learn the technical know-how needed to succeed as a clerical worker.
Possession of a formal clerical training certificate or diploma shows potential and current employers that you are a professional and that you possess a high level of professional commitment to the job. It is a good way to demonstrate that you take your work seriously, want to be knowledgeable and prepared, as well as that you want to be good at doing your work for their company.
When applying for a job, being able to prove that you have certain skills or knowledge is an advantage. Employers love to see outside verification rather than a list of self-confessed skills. If you possess a formal clerical training certificate or diploma, your knowledge is essentially verified by that third party and it is assumed that you will know how to do everything covered by the certificate or diploma's curriculum.
If you have worked in clerical positions for a long time, or if you took a break from the work force and are now coming back to work in a clerical position, there is a high probability that the office technology in current use has changed greatly in a relatively short period of time. Attending clerical training will provide you with the knowledge, skills and technical know-how that companies desire their clerical workers to have and get you up to speed.