Word processors prepare letters, forms, and reports, mailing labels and other material from rough draft, copyedited, or recorded form, by using word processing software. Word processors used to use typewriters but as technology advanced they shifted to computers that are normally connected to a monitor, keyboard and printer. They also have “add-ons” like an optical character recognition reader. This shift has had both positive and negative outcomes.

The use of in home computers has created jobs for those looking to work from home. Word processors can now purchase and use word processing equipment to record, edit, store, and revise letters, memos, reports, statistical tables, forms, and other printed materials from their own homes. This not only gives work at home word processors the ultimate flexibility, and open’s doors to many who may not be physically able to work as an administrative clerks outside the home, but it also gives them tax breaks for operating a business from their homes. Word processors can find employment as a project assistant, program assistant administrative assistant, secretary, clerk typist, receptionist, office manager, word processor, typist, and a customer service representative.




Depending on the company the job may entail some or all of the following:
-Print and make copies of work
-Gather, register and arrange the material to be typed
-Type correspondence, text, reports and other material from rough drafts, corrected copies, dictation, or previous version using word processing software.
-Check completed work for spelling, grammar and format
-Keep records of work performed
-File and store documents on computer hard drive or disk, and maintain a computer filing system to store, update, retrieve and delete material
-Compute and verify totals on report forms, requisition, or bills
-Perform other clerical duties such as answering the telephone, faxing, or sorting and distributing mail

To perform these tasks word processors must have knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures this includes basic to advanced knowledge in word processing, designing forms, stenography and transcription, and managing files and records. They also need to be proficient in the English language. Being able to communicate effectively through writing and speech is must.

Word processors should also have knowledge of procedures for providing customer service, such as customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. Good time management and decision making skills are also required, especially if you work from home. Unlike in centers there is no one there to supervise you. Employers generally hire high school graduates. Acquiring the necessary skills for employment in this field can be found in community colleges, and online.

Now, although many companies are outsourcing to work at home word processors there is not a great demand for this job market. The overall job outlook for word processors is projected to decline through 2014. Employment of word processors is expected to decline because of the rise in personal computers, which allows other workers to perform duties formerly performed by word processors. Most professionals now use desktop personal computers to do their own word processing.

In order for you to remain marketable you must be willing to update your skills continuously. Job prospects will be best for those who have the technical skills.

Wages for word processors range from $28,000-$50,000 a year. Wages vary depending on field.

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