The Importance of Typing Certificates for American Job Seekers
In this modern and competitive job market, additional skills make all the difference between you and your competitors. Among these essential skills, typing skill plays an important role in almost all professions. Be it administrative jobs, data entry, or customer service, typing skills are often considered a prerequisite. This would give a greater edge to the American job seeker. The following blog identifies the importance of typing certificates, their significance, and why employers throughout the United States are starting to regard them highly.
Why Typing Certificates Matter
1. Proof of Professional Competence
Typing certificates serve as proof of an individual's typing skills, both in terms of speed and accuracy. Many jobs in the United States require a particular typing speed, measured in words per minute or WPM, to efficiently perform the job. A certified typing test confirms one's typing skills and saves time for the employer during the hiring process.
Key Statistics: According to a recent study, positions like data entry clerks and administrative assistants often require typing speeds of 50-70 WPM.
Relevance: By providing a typing certificate, candidates show they meet or exceed these benchmarks, making their applications more credible.
2. Boosts Resume Appeal
Including a typing certificate on your resume can make it more appealing to recruiters. It demonstrates your commitment to skill development and gives you an edge over candidates without certification. Many ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems) used by U.S. companies also prioritize applications with verified skills, including typing proficiency.
3. Essential for Certain Industries
Typing proficiency is crucial in industries such as:
Healthcare: Medical transcriptionists and coders must type quickly and accurately.
Legal: Paralegals and legal secretaries often prepare lengthy documents under tight deadlines.
Customer Support: Representatives handle live chats and emails, requiring fast typing to maintain productivity.
A typing certificate tailored for employment in these industries showcases your preparedness for such roles.
Benefits of Typing Certificates for Job Seekers
1. Enhances Job Opportunities
A typing certificate from a certified provider, such as ASTC, will definitely improve your chances of securing an interview. Employers like individuals who take the initiative to have their skills validated.
Example Jobs Requiring Typing Certificates:
Data Entry Clerk
Administrative Assistant
Virtual Assistant
Medical Transcriptionist
2. Increases Earning Potential
Some jobs pay a better rate for those applicants who can prove their typing abilities. Employers consider the certified applicant to be more effective and productive, promoting faster and increasing their salary rate.
3. Improves Productivity
Preparing for a certified typing test helps job seekers practice typing regularly, improving their speed and accuracy over time. These improvements translate to better on-the-job performance.
How Employers Benefit from Typing Certificates
Typing certificates benefits not only job seekers but also employers. They streamline the hiring process and ensure that new hires meet job-specific requirements. Here’s how:
1. Objective Skill Assessment
Typing certificates eliminates guesswork for employers. With verified results, they can objectively assess whether a candidate is suitable for a role.
2. Saves Training Time
Certified candidates require less training in typing-related tasks, saving businesses time and resources.
3. Minimizes Errors
The candidates who can prove their certified typing efficiency are less prone to errors, thus enhancing the overall work output of the workplace.
How to Obtain a Typing Certificate in the U.S.
1. Choose a Reputable Provider
Select an accredited provider such as ASTC to ensure your certificate is recognized by U.S. employers. Look for online typing tests that meet American keyboarding standards.
2. Prepare for the Test
Practice typing regularly using:
Typing software like TypingClub or Keybr.
Online typing exercises focusing on speed and accuracy.
3. Take the Test
Find yourself a quiet place and read the instructions. Proctored tests introduce another level of authenticity in confirming that the test was taken without any external help.
4. Receive Your Certificate
Upon completion, you will have the option to instantly download or print a certificate of your WPM speed & typing accuracy % over a 5-minute test period.
Proctored Typing Tests: How They Work
Proctored tests are becoming increasingly popular since they:
Ensure the authenticity of results.
Provide employers with confidence in the candidate’s abilities.
Our typing tests are all virtually proctored by name, that is, we confirm that the student is the same individual who then takes the final keyboarding Skill Evaluator typing test.
Our certificates include the full name of the typing test participant, date of test completion, typing words per minute (WPM) score from test, typing accuracy % from test and that the test was conducted over a 5-minute period. Upon completion of a Main Skill Evaluator Typing test, we provide a digital Certificate of Attainment that is immediately available for download or print.
Tips for Improving Typing Speed and Accuracy
1. Practice Regularly
Consistency is key. Dedicate at least 15-30 minutes daily to typing practice.
2. Use Typing Software
Programs like TypingMaster, Ratatype and 10FastFingers offer exercises tailored to improve speed and accuracy.
3. Focus on Accuracy First
Speed will naturally improve as you become more accurate. Avoid rushing to prevent errors.
4. Maintain Proper Posture
Good posture and ergonomic positioning can reduce fatigue and enhance typing efficiency.
Conclusion
For American job seekers, a typing certificate is more than just a document; it’s a gateway to better job opportunities, higher earning potential, and enhanced productivity. By earning your certificate through a trusted provider like American Standard Typing Certificates (ASTC), you demonstrate professionalism and dedication to potential employers. Start your journey today and secure your competitive edge in the job market!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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A typing certificate is an official document verifying your typing speed and accuracy. It is essential for job seekers applying for roles where typing proficiency is a requirement, such as administrative or data entry positions.
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You can obtain a typing certificate by taking a certified online typing test through providers like ASTC. The process is simple and can often be completed in less than 30 minutes.
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Typing certificates from accredited providers like ASTC are widely recognized by American employers. Always choose a reputable organization for your certification & when necessary check with your prospective employer to confirm accepted industry providers.
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The minimum speed varies by industry, but most administrative roles require at least 40-50 WPM. Advanced positions may demand 70+ WPM.
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Yes, most providers allow multiple attempts. Use practice tests to improve before retaking the certification exam. The American Standard Typing Certificates Package offers students up-to-6 Main Typing Tests and unlimited practice tests.
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Typing certificates typically do not expire, but it is recommended to update your certificate every 1-2 years to reflect your current skill level.
