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What does an Office Worker do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

An office worker is responsible for a variety of clerical and administrative tasks. They may work in a variety of settings, including corporate offices, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Duties typically include answering phones, scheduling appointments, maintaining files, and preparing documents.

Office Worker job duties include:

  • Answering phones and routing calls
  • Handling incoming and outgoing mail
  • Maintaining filing systems
  • Creating and modifying documents using Microsoft Office
  • Scheduling appointments and managing calendars
  • Booking travel arrangements
  • Providing customer service
  • Performing data entry
  • Generating reports
  • Assisting with special projects as needed

Office Worker Job Requirements

Most office worker jobs require at least a high school diploma, although some may require postsecondary education, such as an associate degree. Many office worker jobs also require certification, such as in medical coding or shorthand. Office workers typically need several years of experience in an office setting before being promoted to a management position.

Office Worker Skills

  • Time management
  • Organization
  • Communication
  • Writing
  • Spreadsheets
  • Presentations
  • Scheduling
  • Customer service
  • Filing
  • Data entry
  • Answering phones

Related: Top Office Worker Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become an Office Worker

An office worker is a professional who works in an office environment, usually in an administrative or support role. Office workers are typically responsible for a variety of tasks, including answering phones, filing documents, scheduling appointments, and managing projects. While the specific duties of an office worker vary depending on the type of organization they work for, there are some common skills and qualities that are necessary for success in this career.

First and foremost, office workers must be highly organized and detail-oriented. They need to be able to keep track of multiple tasks at once and be able to prioritize their work. Excellent communication skills are also essential, as office workers often need to interact with clients and co-workers. They should be able to handle difficult customer service inquiries and resolve conflicts in a diplomatic manner. Furthermore, office workers should have strong computer skills and be proficient in Microsoft Office or other common office software programs.

If you are interested in becoming an office worker, it is important to start developing these skills early on. Pursue a degree or certificate in business administration or a related field if you wish to work in a corporate setting. However, many small businesses also hire office workers with no formal education beyond high school. In either case, gaining experience through internships or part-time jobs can give you the opportunity to develop your skills and learn about the day-to-day responsibilities of an office worker. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career as an office worker.

Related: Office Worker Resume Example

Related: Office Worker Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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