Typists, sometimes called word processor operators, produce letters, reports and other documents using computers or typewriters. They use three main ways of producing documents:

• copy typing - working from hand-written or printed documents
• audio typing - typing whilst listening to spoken notes that have been dictated onto audio tape
• shorthand typing - taking notes in shorthand then later typing up the information from their notes.

Many employers 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
• filing.

Hours and Environment

As a typist you will usually work basic office hours 9:00am-5:00pm, Monday to Friday. You may sometimes need to work extra or flexible hours at busy times.

Part-time work, job sharing and temporary work may be available.

Skills and Interests

To be a typist you should:

• be able to work efficiently and accurately
• have good keyboard and computer skills
• 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.

Entry

You do not need any set qualifications to work as a typist, although employers may ask for some GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) or equivalent qualifications, including English. 

You must have good keyboard skills, and many employers will prefer you to have a recognised qualification in administration or secretarial skills. Before looking for work, you may find it useful to take a qualification such as:

• NVQ/SVQ Levels 1 to 3 in Business and Administration
• City and Guilds, OCR (RSA) or London Chamber of Commerce and Industry Examinations Board (LCCIEB) certificates and diplomas.

Most further education colleges offer a wide range of full- and part-time courses. Please check with colleges for exact entry requirements.

You may be able to get into this job through an apprenticeship scheme. Funding for apprenticeships is available for 16-24 year olds and some over-25s. To find out more, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk. For information about apprenticeships in other parts of the UK, see Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

Training

You will usually have some on-the-job training, and you may be able to take qualifications in word processing and other office skills, including:

• LCCIEB Certificates in Audio Transcription and Text Production
• OCR Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Certificates including Audio Transcription, Text Production, Speed Keying and Word Processing
• City & Guilds Certificates including Audio Transcription, Keyboarding, Text Production Skills and Typewriting.

You could also work towards NVQs/SVQs Levels 1-4 in Business and Administration. Levels 3 and 4 are suitable if you have supervisory or management duties.

See the Secretary profile for details of other useful qualifications.

Opportunities

As a typist you could be employed by all kinds of companies. Some jobs may also include reception and clerical duties. If you are confident with a range of computer packages and can do other administrative tasks, you will have more chance of finding work. 

With more experience and perhaps further training, you could progress to become a secretary, personal assistant or office manager.

There are also opportunities for self-employment and home working. For instance, you could work at home typing CVs, or essays for students.

Annual Income

The annual income section is intended as a guideline only.

Typists and administrative assistants usually earn around £11,000 to £15,000 a year.
With with good shorthand and audio typing skills and more responsibility, they could earn up to £20,000 a year.

Further information

Tel: 020 7294 2800
Tel: 024 7685 1509

Education Development International plc  International House Siskin Parkway East 
Middlemarch Business Park Coventry CV3 4PE Tel: 0870 720 2909

6 Graphite Square
Vauxhall Walk
London
SE11 5EE
Tel: 020 7091 9620