Until recently, many offices relied on typewriters to
process text. Now computers with word processing capabilities are being used
almost exclusively. Individuals who work on computers inputting data are called
word processors or word processor operators.
Word processing equipment usually includes a keyboard,
a video display terminal, and a printer. This equipment has many capabilities
that traditional typewriters don't. For example, it can check and correct
spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Documents that are typed can be saved and
changes can be made. This means that documents do not have to be typed over to
correct errors.
Responsibilities of word processor operators may vary
with the specific job. The main job description function of most individuals is to type
information into the word processor. Information may consist of any type of
document including correspondence, reports, contracts, manuscripts, etc.
Anything that can be typed on a typewriter can be done on a word processor.
Once word processors have finished typing the required
material, they can save the document in the machine's internal memory or on a
computer floppy disk. Word processors run the copy through spelling and grammar
checkers to detect and correct errors.
In addition to straight data entry, many word
processors format documents. They may space paragraphs, set margins, change
type fonts and sizes, and move copy around. Word processors print out copies of
documents, proofread them, and give them to the proper people in the
organization.
Hours vary depending on the work environment in which
the word processors are employed. They are responsible to the office
supervisor.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Individuals may work in office settings in a vast array
of industries, including:
Public relations, Schools, colleges, and universities, Health
care facilities, Advertising agencies, Temporary agencies, Banks, Law offices, Manufacturers,
wholesalers, and retailers, Construction companies, Book publishers, Record
companies, Government agencies, Insurance agencies, Real estate companies, Investment
firms, Shopping centers and Travel agencies
Expanding Opportunities
for the 21st Century
Constant changes in office technology mean costly
training and retraining. Word processors that will be most in demand are those
who can work on a variety of computers and are familiar with many computer
programs.
Many companies are trying to save money by finding ways
to cut back on employee benefits. One way is to utilize word processors
provided by temporary agencies.
Using home computers and fax machines or modems,
employees can handle word processing projects at home. In this instance, many
employers do not have to pay full benefits because of the employment structure.
EARNINGS
Word processors may earn between $6.00 and $30.00 an
hour or more. Earnings depend on the individuals responsibilities, experience,
training, geographic location, and the specific employment situation. Those
working in large cities will earn more than their counterparts in less urban
areas. Word processors with working knowledge of several computer programs and
languages will be paid more than individuals who can handle only one program.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Word processors can advance their careers by obtaining
more training or learning additional computer skills. Individuals can locate
positions in companies with higher earnings if they know more complex computer
programs. They might also move into positions in desktop publishing.
Some word processors become trainers, supervisors,
secretaries, or administrative assistants, depending on the path they want to
take in their career advancement.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Generally, most employers prefer high school graduates
or those with equivalency diplomas. Individuals should be trained in word
processing. Some people learn these skills in high school; others attend
vocational-technical schools, business schools, or community colleges. Many
temporary agencies also offer training programs covering various computer programs
and word processing skills. Some companies have internal training programs to
help their employees keep up with new equipment.
It is imperative for individuals who want to work in
this field to continue learning new computer programs and languages as technology
changes.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Word processors do not generally need experience to
obtain a job, as long as they possess the technical skills to perform.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Individuals
interested in becoming word processors should contact vocational trade schools
or business schools specializing in word processing skills.
TIPS
There are seminars, workshops, and classes available
throughout the country on a variety of word processing programs. The more you
know, the more marketable you make yourself.
There is a vast array of books available in bookstores
and libraries on the subject. Make sure you are reading the most current
material.
Temporary agencies, especially in large cities, offer
training programs in word processing. Some are free and others have a charge.
Job openings are advertised in the classifieds under
headings for the specific industry the job is in, such as "Education"
or "Health Care." They may also be under "Word Processors,"
"Word Processing," or "Computers."
- Article Word Count: 704
- |
- Total Views: 1292
- |
- permalink