HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
People in this role often develop office and computer skills through secondary school courses, part-time work, or short college or vocational programs. Employers may look for good communication, organization, and attention to detail. Experience with word processing, spreadsheets, and common office equipment can be helpful. Some workers start in entry-level clerical roles and build skills on the job as they learn workplace procedures and software used in the office.
THE WORK
What you may do
- Answer phones and take messages
- File, sort, and organize documents
- Enter data into computer systems
- Prepare or copy basic office materials
- Help schedule appointments or meetings
- Greet visitors and direct inquiries
- Handle routine clerical tasks
A DAY IN THE LIFE
What a day can include
A general office support worker may start the day by checking messages, organizing files, and updating records. During the day, they might answer phone calls, welcome visitors, enter information into a database, and help prepare documents or meeting materials. They often switch between tasks as requests come in, so being flexible and organized is important. The work is usually indoors and involves regular computer use and communication with coworkers or clients.
SKILLS TO BUILD