Top 10 General Office Clerk Certifications

Certifications are important for a general office clerk in the job market because they provide employers with an assurance of competency and quality work. Certifications demonstrate that an individual has the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of a general office clerk. They also show that the individual is familiar with industry standards and best practices. Furthermore, certifications can help set a candidate apart from other applicants by showcasing their commitment to professional development. Finally, having certifications can boost an individual's confidence when applying for jobs and interviewing, as it provides tangible evidence of their qualifications.

This article aims to review and explain the importance of certifications for General Office Clerks, and how these can help enhance their career prospects.

What are General Office Clerk Certifications?

General office clerk certification is a type of certification that recognizes the skills and knowledge needed to work as a general office clerk. This certification is offered by various organizations, such as the National Association of Administrative Professionals (NAAP) and the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It can help individuals seeking to enter or advance in a career as an administrative professional or clerical worker.

Holding this certification can be beneficial for those looking for employment, as it provides potential employers with evidence of an individual's competency in certain areas. It also helps to demonstrate that the applicant has acquired the necessary skill sets for working in an administrative role. Additionally, having this certification may make individuals more competitive in their job search and increase their chances of finding employment.

Certification can also provide professionals with opportunities for advancement within their organization. Those who have achieved a general office clerk certification are likely to receive recognition from employers, which could lead to higher salaries and promotions over time. Finally, obtaining this certification can also give individuals greater confidence in their abilities, and they may be more willing to take on additional responsibilities within the workplace.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a general office clerk, consider earning a certification to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. Certification can be earned through various organizations such as the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), which offers the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) credential. Earning this certification can help validate your expertise and give you an edge when competing for jobs.

Related: What does a General Office Clerk do?

Top 10 General Office Clerk Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to General Office Clerks today.

1. Certified Office Clerk (COC)

Certified Office Clerk (COC) is a professional certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and skills in the areas of office administration, communication, customer service, and computer applications. It is an industry-recognized credential that can help to open doors to career advancement opportunities.

The certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must pass two exams: the Certified Office Clerk Exam (COCE) and the Certified Office Clerk Practical Application Exam (COCPAE). The COCE covers topics such as office procedures, customer service, communication skills, and computer applications. The COCPAE tests applicants’ ability to apply their knowledge in a practical setting.

To get started on the certification process, applicants must first register with the National Association of Certified Office Clerks (NACOC). Registration fees vary depending on whether or not you are already a member of NACOC. After registering, applicants will need to purchase study materials for both exams from NACOC or other sources. Once they have studied sufficiently for both exams, they can schedule their exams through NACOC or other approved testing centers.

The cost of becoming a Certified Office Clerk varies depending on the registration fees for NACOC and any additional study materials purchased. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD to become certified.

2. Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their administrative and office management skills. The CAP certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and dedication to the administrative profession.

The CAP exam consists of four parts: Office Technology & Procedures, Business Writing & Presentations, Human Resources Management, and Financial & Project Management. To become certified, applicants must pass all four sections of the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The CAP exam can be taken at any IAAP-approved testing center around the world. The cost for the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. It usually takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the exam depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each week.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain educational requirements in order to earn their CAP certification. These include having at least two years of experience in an administrative role or completing a minimum of 60 hours of college credit related to business administration or office management topics.

3. Certified Professional Secretary (CPS)

Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of administrative professionals in the workplace. The CPS certification is based on a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as office management, organizational behavior, communication, customer service, technology, and business ethics.

The CPS certification process typically takes about six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application to IAAP and meet certain eligibility requirements. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then pass a four-hour exam that covers all areas of administrative expertise. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CPS certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on your location and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 to apply for the CPS certification program and take the exam. Additional fees may be required for things like study materials or retake exams if necessary.

Overall, obtaining a Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certification can help demonstrate your expertise in administrative work and open up more career opportunities in today’s competitive job market.

4. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills in using Microsoft Office applications. The MOS program tests and certifies candidates on their ability to use the features and functionality of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and OneNote.

The MOS certification is available for all versions of Microsoft Office from 2010 onwards. To obtain the certification, you must pass a series of exams that test your knowledge of the various applications within the suite. Depending on which version of Office you are certified in, there are different exams for each application.

It typically takes about two weeks to complete the entire certification process. You can take as long or as little time as you need to prepare for the exams; however, it is recommended that you spend at least a few hours studying before taking them. The cost of taking the exams varies depending on where you take them and how many exams you need to take. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $100 USD.

5. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification for entry-level IT professionals. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge necessary to install, configure, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair computer hardware and software. The certification consists of two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002).

It typically takes between 6 months to a year to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams. This includes studying course materials, taking practice tests, and gaining hands-on experience working with computers.

To get CompTIA A+, you must pass both the Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002) exams. Each exam costs $226 USD, so the total cost of the certification is $452 USD. You can register for the exams online or through an authorized testing center.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official CompTIA A+ certification from CompTIA.

6. IC3 Digital Literacy Certification

The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification is an internationally recognized certification that verifies a person’s knowledge and ability to use digital technologies. It is designed to help individuals develop the skills needed to be successful in today's digital world. The certification covers the basics of computer hardware, software, and internet use.

It takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification exam. The exam consists of three sections: Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications, and Living Online. Each section contains multiple choice questions and requires a score of 80% or higher to pass.

To get certified, you must first purchase an exam voucher from Certiport, the official provider of the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification exams. After purchasing a voucher, you can register for an exam at a local Certiport testing center or online through Certiport’s website.

The cost of the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $100 USD per attempt (including taxes).

7. QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification

QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification is an official certification program offered by Intuit, the makers of QuickBooks. The program is designed to help individuals and businesses become more proficient in using the software.

The QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as setup, customization, payroll processing, financial reporting, and troubleshooting. The practical exam tests your ability to apply the knowledge you have learned from the written exam to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about 3 months to complete both parts of the certification process. To get started, you will need to register for the certification program on Intuit's website and pay a fee of $299 USD. Once registered, you will be able to access study materials and practice exams that will help you prepare for the actual exams.

Once you have successfully completed both exams, you will be awarded your QuickBooks ProAdvisor Certification and can begin taking advantage of all the benefits that come with it. These include access to exclusive discounts on products and services, priority customer service support from Intuit, invitations to special events and webinars hosted by Intuit experts, and more!

8. Legal Office Assistant Certification

Legal Office Assistant Certification is a certification program designed to provide knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective legal office assistant. It is typically offered through community colleges, vocational schools, or online institutions.

The length of the program varies depending on the institution offering it, but generally takes between six months and two years to complete. The curriculum includes courses such as legal terminology, legal documents and processes, office management, communication and customer service skills, computer applications for legal offices, and more.

To get certified as a Legal Office Assistant, you must successfully complete all required courses in the program. You may also need to pass an exam or demonstrate proficiency in certain areas before you can receive your certification.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on the institution offering it; however, most programs range from $500-$2,000.

9. Certified Medical Office Assistant (CMAA)

Certified Medical Office Assistant (CMAA) is a certification that recognizes individuals who have completed specialized training and demonstrate proficiency in the skills necessary to work in a medical office. The certification is offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA).

To become a Certified Medical Office Assistant, an individual must complete an NHA-approved training program or demonstrate equivalent experience. Training programs typically take between six and twelve months to complete, depending on the type of program and the individual's schedule.

Once a person has completed their training, they can apply for the CMAA exam through the NHA website. The cost of taking the exam is $125. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official CMAA certification from NHA.

The CMAA certification is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

10. National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS) Certification

The National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS) Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the professional competency and expertise of legal secretaries. The NALS certification program is offered through their Professional Development Program, which provides legal secretaries with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their profession.

To obtain NALS Certification, applicants must successfully complete three levels of testing: Basic Skills, Advanced Skills, and Professional Skills. Each level consists of multiple-choice questions that test the applicant’s knowledge of legal terminology, office procedures, document preparation, and other topics related to the legal field.

The entire process takes approximately two years to complete. Applicants must first pass the Basic Skills exam before progressing to the Advanced Skills exam. Once both exams are passed, applicants can then take the Professional Skills exam.

The cost for each level of testing varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NALS. For non-members, the cost for each level is $125; for members it is $95 per level. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 for maintaining your certification once you have passed all three levels of testing.

Do You Really Need a General Office Clerk Certificate?

No, you do not need a general office clerk certificate to work in an office setting. However, having one may give you an advantage over other potential candidates when applying for jobs. A certificate can demonstrate to employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the duties of a general office clerk. It can also show that you are dedicated to learning and improving your skills in this field.

In some cases, employers may require a specific type of certification in order to be considered for certain positions. For example, if you are applying for a job as an administrative assistant or executive assistant, having a General Office Clerk Certificate could be beneficial. This type of certification shows that you possess the organizational and communication skills needed for these types of roles.

If you decide to pursue a General Office Clerk Certificate, there are online courses and programs available from various institutions. These programs typically involve studying topics such as customer service, record keeping, filing systems, computer software applications, and more. You will also learn how to use common office equipment such as copiers and fax machines. In addition, many programs offer hands-on experience working with real documents in a simulated business environment.

Although it is not required to have a General Office Clerk Certificate in order to work in an office setting, having one could give you an edge over other applicants when seeking employment opportunities. If you decide that pursuing this type of certification is right for you, be sure to research the different courses available before making your decision so that you can choose the best program for your needs and goals.

Related: General Office Clerk Resume Examples

FAQs About General Office Clerk Certifications

Q1. What is a General Office Clerk Certification?

A1. A General Office Clerk Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates proficiency and knowledge in office management, administrative tasks, customer service, and other related skills. It is designed to give employers assurance that the holder has the skills necessary to perform well in an office clerk role.

Q2. How do I obtain a General Office Clerk Certification?

A2. Generally, you will need to complete a training program offered through a college or vocational school. Alternatively, some certifying organizations provide online courses or self-study materials that can be used to prepare for certification examinations.

Q3. What are the benefits of having a General Office Clerk Certification?

A3. Having a General Office Clerk Certification can help demonstrate your commitment to professional development and increase your employability by showing potential employers that you have the necessary skills required for an office clerk role. Furthermore, it may also provide you with additional career opportunities and higher pay rates as certified clerks typically command higher salaries than non-certified personnel.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as a General Office Clerk?

A4. This will depend on the type of program or course you choose as well as your individual proficiency level but generally speaking it takes between 6-12 months to complete training and subsequently pass the certification exam(s).

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a General Office Clerk Certification?

A5. Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to have at least 1 year of prior experience working in an office environment before they are eligible for certification exams. Additionally, some certifying bodies may also require completion of certain courses or programs such as those offered through accredited colleges or vocational schools prior to taking their exam(s).