Back when typewriters began to be widely used by most businesses, getting a typing job was easy. All that the applicant had to do was be able to type quickly and well, and learning typing skills wasn't difficult for most people. Standard typewriters don't exist in offices anymore, though, and applicants for clerical jobs will have to have an entirely different skill set than their predecessors of several years ago. It is recommended that those who are preparing themselves for competition in the job market develop at least rudimentary keyboarding skills. Most positions require the use of computers, and applicants without a basic knowledge of how to type are often overlooked in favor of more qualified candidates. Many people own and use personal computers on a regular basis, so typing is not a skill that is specific to only a small part of the population. People who are interested in pursuing clerical work as a career should consider completing a certificate or degree program at a business college or their local community college. Most employers prefer applicants who have formal training in office technology. Available clerical positions in today's job market require the use of a variety of computer programs as well as proficiency using the internet. Those looking primarily for a typing job should investigate working for a large corporation or for the government. Large numbers of people are often employed in the word-processing departments of these organizations. However, even if the job entails mostly keyboarding, other computer skills may be necessary in order to adequately perform the required duties. Computer skills that make potential employees attractive to hiring managers include proficiency in the use of data base programs, spreadsheets and accounting software. Entry-level employees who have secured a typing job would be wise to continue their educations in order to gain access to more lucrative and interesting positions. the average typing job begins at between $10 and $12 per hour, and those who develop other skills can quickly advance to more responsible positions with higher rates of pay.