Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
Although hiring requirements vary from industry to industry, a high school diploma or its equivalent often is required. However, not all jobs require a high school diploma. Some high school and college students work part time as information clerks outside of school hours. For some jobs, such as airline reservation and ticket agents, some college education is preferred.

Job Outlook:
Overall employment of information clerks is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. There will be an estimated 1,762,000 information clerks by 2005. Replacement needs will create large numbers of job openings, reflecting relatively high turnover. This work is well suited to flexible work schedules, and many opportunities for part-time work will continue to be available. Job opportunities for receptionists should be plentiful. Establishments need receptionists' services even during economic downturns, and therefore they usually are not subject to layoffs during recessions. Employment of receptionists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. On the other hand, the increasing use of voice mail may temper, somewhat, the demand for receptionists. Where several receptionists may have been required to answer the company's telephones in the past, voice mail may now make it possible for one person to do the job.

Sources of Additional Information:
State employment offices can provide information about employment opportunities in these and other clerical jobs.