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Typist

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Typist

Typist Career Details

Typists, often referred to as word processor operators, use keyboards to produce letters, reports and other documents. There are three main ways of producing documents into typed formats:

Copy typing - working from hand-written, printed or typed documents.

Audio typing - the work is dictated onto an audio tape, then the typist produces the document whilse listening to the recording.

Shorthand typing – the typist takes shorthand notes as information is dictated to them, then later types up the information from their notes.

Many employers would expect typists to carry out other administrative duties. These vary from employer to employer but might include:

  • using computers for other tasks like spreadsheets and databases
  • answering the telephone and dealing with enquiries
  • using office equipment like photocopiers, faxes and franking machines
  • dealing with incoming and outgoing post and emails
  • maintaining filing systems.

Working Environment

Typists usually work 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. It may be necessary to work extra or flexible hours at busy times.

Most of the working day is spent sitting at a desk in an office. Part time work, job sharing and temporary work is available.

Typist Related Skills

To be a typist you should:
  • be able to work efficiently and accurately
  • have good keyboard skills and confidence with a range of word processing and computer packages
  • have a good command of English grammar, spelling and punctuation
  • have good communication skills
  • be able to work to deadlines
  • be able to produce neat, well-presented work
  • be discreet - you could be dealing with confidential information.

Typist Career Opportunities

All types of organisations employ typists, and some jobs may include reception and clerical duties.Applicants who are confident with a number of software packages, and can undertake a variety of clerical tasks, stand a better chance of finding a good job.

With more experience and perhaps further training, promotion to a secretarial, personal assistant or office manager role may be possible.

There are also opportunities for self-employment and home working. For instance, some typists advertise their services for typing CVs or academic theses.

Further Career Information

If you would like to know more about a career as an Typist related facts, statistics, articles and websites.

Career Steps

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