Top 11 Clerical Aide Certifications

Certifications for a clerical aide can be extremely important in the job market. Having certifications demonstrates to potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform a particular job. It also shows that you are committed to developing your professional qualifications, which can make you stand out from other applicants. Certifications also give employers confidence that they are hiring someone who is competent and reliable. Additionally, certified clerical aides may be eligible for higher pay or faster promotions than those without certifications.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Clerical Aides and explains how they can help to advance a clerical aide's career.

What are Clerical Aide Certifications?

Clerical aide certification is a type of professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of clerical aides in the workplace. It is designed to help clerical aides demonstrate their experience and qualifications to employers, as well as helping them stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in their field.

The certification process typically involves completing an approved course of study, followed by a comprehensive examination. This allows employers to have confidence that any individual with such a certification has the necessary skills and knowledge to provide excellent service in a clerical position. The coursework usually covers topics such as office organization, communication and customer service, computer basics, recordkeeping, filing systems, basic accounting principles, and more.

Clerical aides who successfully complete the certification process can expect to build their professional network by connecting with other certified professionals in their field. Additionally, they may find it easier to find job opportunities through organizations that recognize certified individuals or through job postings specifically seeking certified candidates. Finally, having a recognized credential on their resume may also help them stand out from other applicants when applying for positions within organizations that value certifications.

Pro Tip: Be sure to research and understand the requirements for certification as a clerical aide before you begin the application process. Different agencies may have different criteria, so make sure you know what is required in order to ensure that your application is successful.

Related: What does a Clerical Aide do?

Top 11 Clerical Aide Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Clerical Aides today.

1. Office Administration Certification

Office Administration Certification is a professional certification awarded by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in office administration. The certification provides employers with assurance that the certified individual has demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform administrative tasks effectively.

The Office Administration Certification program consists of two levels: Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) and Advanced Certified Administrative Professional (ACAP). To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as office management, communication, customer service, computer applications, and business writing. The exam is administered online or in-person at IAAP testing centers.

The CAP exam takes approximately three hours to complete, while the ACAP exam takes approximately four hours to complete. Both exams cost $175 USD per attempt. Applicants must also pay an application fee of $50 USD for each level of certification.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must have at least two years of full-time work experience in an administrative role in order to be eligible for certification. Those without the necessary experience may still qualify if they can demonstrate equivalent knowledge through education or other training programs.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their credentials by completing continuing education credits every three years in order to remain active members of IAAP and keep their certifications current.

2. Data Entry Certification

Data Entry Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform data entry tasks accurately and efficiently. The certification covers topics such as data entry fundamentals, keyboarding techniques, file management, data validation, and more. It typically takes between four and six weeks to complete the certification program.

To get Data Entry Certification, you must first complete an approved training course or program. These courses are offered by various organizations and can be found online or in-person. After completing the training course, you must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body such as CompTIA or Microsoft. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate of completion.

The cost of Data Entry Certification varies depending on the organization offering it and the type of course taken. Generally speaking, online courses tend to be more affordable than in-person courses. Additionally, some organizations may offer discounts for those who purchase multiple certifications at once.

3. Microsoft Office Suite Certification

Microsoft Office Suite Certification is an official credential that proves a person’s ability to use the Microsoft Office Suite of applications. The certification covers Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and OneNote. It requires a combination of knowledge and practical skills in order to pass the exams.

The certification process typically takes between one and two months to complete depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must first take a series of online courses or attend instructor-led classes to learn the basics of each application. Then they must pass a series of exams that cover both theoretical and practical aspects of using the software.

The cost of getting Microsoft Office Suite Certification varies depending on where you take your classes and how many exams you need to take. Generally speaking, it can range from $200-$500 for all the necessary courses and exams. However, some employers may provide reimbursement for these costs as part of their employee benefits packages.

Once an individual has completed all the required courses and passed all the exams, they will be awarded an official Microsoft Office Suite Certification from Microsoft itself. This credential can be used to demonstrate mastery over this popular suite of applications and make individuals more attractive candidates for job opportunities in their field.

4. Records Management Certification

Records Management Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of records management. It is awarded by the Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA) International, a global professional association dedicated to the practice of records and information management.

To become certified, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams that demonstrate mastery of the core principles of records management. The certification program consists of three levels: Certified Records Analyst (CRA), Certified Records Manager (CRM), and Certified Information Governance Professional (CIGP).

The CRA level requires completion of two courses and one exam, which can be completed in approximately six months. The CRM level requires completion of four courses and two exams, which can be completed in approximately one year. The CIGP level requires completion of five courses and three exams, which can be completed in approximately one year.

In order to take the courses required for certification, individuals must purchase course materials from ARMA International or its approved vendors. Course materials typically cost between $500-$1000 per course depending on the level being pursued. In addition to course materials, individuals must also pay an examination fee for each exam taken ($250 for CRA/CRM; $350 for CIGP).

Overall, it typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for Records Management Certification depending on the level being pursued.

5. Customer Service Certification

Customer Service Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in providing excellent customer service. It is designed to help individuals improve their customer service skills, as well as to provide recognition for those who have achieved a high level of excellence in the field.

The length of time it takes to get Customer Service Certification depends on the type of program you choose. There are online programs available that can be completed in as little as two weeks, while other programs may require up to six months or more.

To get Customer Service Certification, you must first complete the required coursework and pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service principles, communication techniques, problem-solving strategies, and conflict resolution. After passing the exam, you will receive your certification from the organization offering the program.

The cost of Customer Service Certification varies depending on the program you choose. Some organizations offer free or low-cost courses while others may charge hundreds or even thousands of dollars for their programs.

6. Filing and Document Retrieval Certification

Filing and Document Retrieval Certification is a certification that demonstrates proficiency in the filing and retrieval of documents. It is a great way to show employers that you have the skills needed to manage large volumes of documents efficiently.

The certification process typically takes about two weeks to complete, depending on the organization offering it. To get certified, you must first take an online course or attend a workshop on filing and document retrieval. The course will cover topics such as organizing documents, creating filing systems, and using databases for document retrieval. After completing the course, you must pass an exam to receive your certification.

The cost of Filing and Document Retrieval Certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $50-$500 USD.

7. Time Management and Scheduling Certification

Time Management and Scheduling Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to effectively manage their time and schedule. The certification is offered by the International Association for Time Management (IATM). It is designed to provide individuals with a comprehensive understanding of time management principles, tools, and techniques.

The program consists of an online course that can be completed in as little as 8-10 hours. During the course, participants learn about topics such as goal setting, prioritization, task delegation, scheduling, and project management. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive a certificate from IATM.

To get certified, you must first register for the course on the IATM website. Once registered, you will be given access to the online course materials which include videos, audio recordings, and written materials. After completing all of the required materials and passing a final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your certificate from IATM.

The cost for Time Management and Scheduling Certification varies depending on where you are located but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD.

8. Accounting and Bookkeeping Certification

Accounting and Bookkeeping Certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of accounting and bookkeeping. This certification is typically earned through the completion of an accredited program, such as a college degree or certificate program. The certification is generally awarded by a professional organization, such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).

How long does it take to get it? It depends on which type of certification you are pursuing. Generally, it takes between one to two years to complete a college degree or certificate program in accounting and bookkeeping.

How to get it? To become certified in accounting and bookkeeping, individuals must first complete an accredited program that meets the standards set by the AICPA or other certifying body. This typically includes coursework in areas such as financial statement preparation, taxation, auditing, cost accounting, and more. After completing the program, individuals must pass an exam administered by the certifying body in order to receive their certification.

How much does it cost? The cost of obtaining Accounting and Bookkeeping Certification can vary depending on which type of certification you pursue. In most cases, tuition for a college degree or certificate program will range from $2,000 - $10,000 USD depending on how many courses are taken and what type of institution you attend. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam required for certification.

9. Typing Speed and Accuracy Certification

Typing Speed and Accuracy Certification is a certification that demonstrates the ability to type quickly and accurately. It is designed to measure a person’s typing speed and accuracy on a computer keyboard. The certification can be used for job applications, resumes, and other professional documents.

The certification process typically takes about an hour or less to complete. During the test, the applicant will be asked to type a set of words or sentences in a given amount of time. The test usually consists of two parts: a timed portion where the applicant must type as many words as possible within a certain period of time, and an accuracy portion where the applicant must type each word correctly without any mistakes or typos.

To get certified, applicants must find an accredited testing center that offers Typing Speed and Accuracy Certification tests. These centers are usually found at local community colleges or universities, but there are also online courses available. The cost of the test varies depending on the provider, but it typically ranges from $25-$50 USD.

Once you have taken and passed the test, you will receive your certificate in the mail within 1-2 weeks. This certificate will include your name, date of completion, score achieved on the test, and any additional information requested by your employer or school.

10. Mailroom Management Certification

Mailroom Management Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to become successful mailroom managers. This certification is offered by the National Association of Mailroom Managers (NAMM) and is designed for those who want to advance their careers in the mailroom industry.

The program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on the basics of mailroom management, including basic office equipment, postal regulations, customer service, and more. Level 2 covers more advanced topics such as budgeting, scheduling, inventory control, and facility management.

It typically takes about three months to complete both levels of the program. The cost for the entire program is $495 for members of NAMM or $595 for non-members.

To get certified, you must first submit an application to NAMM along with proof of your work experience in a mailroom environment. Once approved, you will be required to take an online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions based on material covered in the coursework. After passing the exam with a score of at least 80%, you will receive your certification from NAMM.

11. Receptionist Skills Certification

Receptionist Skills Certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful receptionists. The certification program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires a different number of hours to complete and covers topics such as customer service, telephone etiquette, scheduling appointments, filing systems, office technology, and more.

The Basic Level takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete and covers the basics of being a receptionist. The Intermediate Level takes 16-20 hours to complete and focuses on more advanced topics such as customer service techniques and problem solving. The Advanced Level takes 24-30 hours to complete and covers topics such as using office software programs, managing multiple tasks, working with difficult customers, and more.

To get certified in Receptionist Skills Certification you must first take an online assessment that tests your knowledge of the material covered in each level. Once you have passed the assessment you will receive a certificate verifying your completion of the course.

The cost for Receptionist Skills Certification varies depending on which level you are taking but typically ranges from $50-$100 per level.

Do You Really Need a Clerical Aide Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. First, it is important to consider what type of job you are looking for and if the employer requires a clerical aide certificate in order to be considered for the position. Some employers may require that applicants have some sort of certification or training in order to demonstrate their knowledge of office tasks and processes. If this is the case, then obtaining a clerical aide certificate would be necessary in order to demonstrate your qualifications for the job.

On the other hand, if you are applying for a position that does not require any certifications or special training, then there may not be a need for a clerical aide certificate. Many employers will look at experience and skills when making hiring decisions and do not always require certifications. Therefore, it is important to research different positions and determine which requirements are necessary before deciding whether or not you should pursue a clerical aide certificate.

Overall, whether or not you need a clerical aide certificate depends on your specific job goals and the employer’s requirements for each position. If certification is required for the job you are interested in, then obtaining a clerical aide certificate can help demonstrate your commitment to being qualified for the role. However, if certification is not necessary, then pursuing one may not be necessary.

Related: Clerical Aide Resume Examples

FAQs About Clerical Aide Certifications

1. What is a clerical aide certification?

Answer: A clerical aide certification is a professional credential that demonstrates the successful completion of a program designed to provide job-specific knowledge and skills related to office administration, customer service, and other administrative tasks.

2. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a clerical aide?

Answer: To become certified as a clerical aide, you will typically need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and have completed an accredited program in office administration or related field. In some cases, additional experience may be required.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a clerical aide?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a clerical aide varies depending on the specific requirements of the certifying organization. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within one year if you attend classes full-time.

4. Where can I find information about available clerical aide certifications?

Answer: You can find information about available clerical aide certifications by researching online or contacting educational institutions that offer related programs. Additionally, many professional organizations offer certification programs for clerical aides and other administrative professionals.

5. Are there any costs associated with obtaining a clerical aide certification?

Answer: Yes, there are typically fees associated with obtaining a certification such as application fees, exam fees, and/or tuition fees for courses taken in preparation for the exams.