What does a Clerk do?
Clerks perform many tasks that are basic to office work. They make up bills and payrolls, file papers and reports, sort emails, scan documents and enter data on the computer. Clerks work in hospitals, insurance companies and government agencies. They also work for manufacturers, department stores and other businesses. In some companies, a Clerk takes dictation at conferences and transcribes notes. They also monitor office supplies and restock them when necessary.
Clerk skills and qualifications
A successful Clerk candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively, these can include:
- Ability to prioritise and organise tasks effectively
- Proficiency in various computer software such as spreadsheets, Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook
- Ability to work well with different kinds of people
- Ability to adapt to new environments, systems and methods of work
- Willingness to learn new skills and ability to lead teams
- Good team player and ability to work under pressure
- Problem-solving skills and open-mindedness
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Clerk experience requirements
There are no minimum experience requirements for Clerks. However, employers usually prefer candidates who have previous clerical work experience. Some employers prefer candidates who have customer service or sales experience or experience working in the specific industry that the position will be in, such as retail, medicine or law.
Clerk education and training requirements
Most employers, today expect candidates to have GCSEs in maths and English. They also expect candidates to have a General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ) or vocational A-level in business administration, a National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) or Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQ). Some employers require candidates to complete a course offered by the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Pitman or OC (RSA).
Clerk salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a Clerk in the UK is £16,777 per year. This figure can vary depending on factors, including the specific hiring requirements of the company, the geographical location and the candidate’s level of experience.
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