Wednesday, June 11, 2003
Escaping the Clerical Ghetto
The computer clock reads 3:18 a.m. You slump over your computer keyboard, emitting a weary sigh. Six months ago, you were hired on as an assistant copywriter. After a few weeks, it became clear that in order to get promoted you would have to spend a majority of your time making management look good. At first the frantic pace was exhilarating and everyday seemed to bring an interesting challenge.
However, now the euphoria has long since faded and you are looking to make an escape to the higher side of the payscale.
Here some things to do to help you escape the clerical ghetto:
Get a copy of your official job description from the Human Resources department
Carefully document the projects and assignments that you are currently working.
Make a note of the people that you closely work with including their job title.
Attend the office and computer training sessions whenever you can
Join professional organizations in your field
Give yourself a definite timetable for your clerical tour of duty and stick to it
The computer clock reads 3:18 a.m. You slump over your computer keyboard, emitting a weary sigh. Six months ago, you were hired on as an assistant copywriter. After a few weeks, it became clear that in order to get promoted you would have to spend a majority of your time making management look good. At first the frantic pace was exhilarating and everyday seemed to bring an interesting challenge.
However, now the euphoria has long since faded and you are looking to make an escape to the higher side of the payscale.
Here some things to do to help you escape the clerical ghetto:
Get a copy of your official job description from the Human Resources department
Carefully document the projects and assignments that you are currently working.
Make a note of the people that you closely work with including their job title.
Attend the office and computer training sessions whenever you can
Join professional organizations in your field
Give yourself a definite timetable for your clerical tour of duty and stick to it
