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Occupation AtlasCorrespondence Clerks

O*NET · 43-4021.00

Correspondence Clerks

Compose letters or electronic correspondence in reply to requests for merchandise, damage claims, credit and other information, delinquent accounts, incorrect billings, or unsatisfactory services. Duties may include gathering data to formulate reply and preparing correspondence.

Also called Authorization and Referral Coordinator · Authorization Coordinator · Authorization Rep · Authorization Representative (Authorization Rep) · Authorization Specialist · Chargeback Specialist · Claims Correspondence Clerk · Collections Correspondent
34 more

Commercial Correspondent · Correspondence Analyst · Correspondence Clerk · Correspondence Coordinator · Correspondence Dictator · Correspondence Renew Clerk · Correspondence Rep · Correspondence Representative (Correspondence Rep) · Correspondence Review Clerk · Correspondence Specialist · Correspondence Transcriber · Correspondent · Customer Service Correspondence Clerk · Dispute Resolution Analyst · Dispute Resolution Specialist · Dispute Specialist · Document Review Analyst · Fan Mail Editor · Image Review Clerk · Legislative Correspondent · Medical Authorization Specialist · Membership Correspondent · Office Correspondent · Office Tech · Office Technician (Office Tech) · Pre-Authorization Specialist · Prior Authorization Specialist · Referral and Authorization Specialist · Referrals Coordinator · Review Coordinator · Sales Correspondent · Student Loans Correspondent · Suggestions Clerk · Technical Clerk

Job Zone 2 — Some Preparation NeededHolland code CES35 skills on file

Compare with another occupationCompare with Paralegals and Legal Assistants

Job Zone

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Zone 2: Some Preparation Needed

Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma, some previous work-related skill or experience, and a few months to a year of training with experienced workers.

Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.

Occupational interest profile

CESConventional · Enterprising · Social — the three strongest interests, in order

  • C Conventional6.86
  • E Enterprising3.43
  • S Social2.70
  • I Investigative2.52
  • A Artistic1.57
  • R Realistic1.32

RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.

Education and experience

The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.

  • High School Diploma or the equivalent43%
  • Some College Courses17%
  • Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree28%
  • Bachelor's Degree12%
Related work experience
Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years (35%)
On-site or in-plant training
Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years (42%)
On-the-job training
Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months (29%)

Typically associated skills

All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.

  • Writingbasic4.04.1Level 4 looks like: Write an email to staff outlining new directives
  • Reading Comprehensionbasic3.84.0Level 4 looks like: Understand an email from management describing new personnel policies
  • Active Listeningbasic3.83.9Level 4 looks like: Answer inquiries regarding credit references
  • Speakingbasic3.53.5Level 4 looks like: Interview applicants to obtain personal and work history
  • Critical Thinkingbasic3.43.8Level 4 looks like: Evaluate customer complaints and determine appropriate responses
  • Judgment and Decision Making3.33.0Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
  • Social Perceptiveness3.12.9Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
  • Service Orientation3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Ask customers if they would like a cup of coffee
  • Time Management3.02.9Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
  • Coordination2.92.9Level 2 looks like: Schedule appointments for a medical clinic
  • Complex Problem Solving2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Lay out tools to complete a job
  • Monitoringbasic2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Proofread and correct a letter
Show the other 23

Tasks

7 core · 10 supplemental

What people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).

  1. Maintain files and control records to show correspondence activities.4.1
  2. Prepare documents and correspondence, such as damage claims, credit and billing inquiries, invoices, and service complaints.4.0
  3. Read incoming correspondence to ascertain nature of writers' concerns and to determine disposition of correspondence.4.0
  4. Gather records pertinent to specific problems, review them for completeness and accuracy, and attach records to correspondence as necessary.4.0
  5. Compile data from records to prepare periodic reports.3.8
  6. Compose letters in reply to correspondence concerning such items as requests for merchandise, damage claims, credit information requests, delinquent accounts, incorrect billing, or unsatisfactory service.3.8
  7. Route correspondence to other departments for reply.3.5
Show the other 10
  1. Ensure that money collected is properly recorded and secured.4.4
  2. Process orders for goods requested in correspondence.3.9
  3. Present clear and concise explanations of governing rules and regulations.3.7
  4. Review correspondence for format and typographical accuracy, assemble the information into a prescribed form with the correct number of copies, and submit it to an authorized official for signature.3.7
  5. Type acknowledgment letters to persons sending correspondence.3.6
  6. Compute costs of records furnished to requesters, and write letters to obtain payment.3.6
  7. Compile data pertinent to manufacture of special products for customers.3.6
  8. Complete form letters in response to requests or problems identified by correspondence.3.4
  9. Confer with company personnel regarding feasibility of complying with writers' requests.3.3
  10. Prepare records for shipment by certified mail.3.2

Knowledge

Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.

  • Administrative4.45.5Level 4 looks like: Type 30 words per minute
  • English Language4.03.8Level 4 looks like: Edit an article for a news website
  • Customer and Personal Service3.83.9Level 4 looks like: Be responsible for 10 children at daycare
  • Economics and Accounting3.64.0Level 4 looks like: Develop financial investment programs for individual clients
  • Mathematics3.53.8Level 4 looks like: Analyze data to determine areas with the highest sales
  • Computers and Electronics3.43.8Level 4 looks like: Use a computer to format a document
  • Administration and Management2.93.3Level 4 looks like: Monitor progress of a project to ensure timely completion
  • Law and Government2.82.8
Show all 33
  • Public Safety and Security2.82.5Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
  • Communications and Media2.62.5Level 1 looks like: Write a thank you note
  • Education and Training2.42.5Level 1 looks like: Show someone how to bowl
  • Personnel and Human Resources2.41.9Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
  • Production and Processing2.42.0Level 1 looks like: Put a computer back into its packing materials
  • Telecommunications2.21.3Level 1 looks like: Send an email
  • Transportation2.01.0Level 1 looks like: Ride a train to work
  • Sales and Marketing1.81.3Level 1 looks like: Sell cakes at a bake sale
  • Foreign Language1.71.1Level 1 looks like: Say "please" and "thank you" in a foreign language
  • Psychology1.61.4Level 1 looks like: Monitor several children on a playground
  • Mechanical1.4—
  • Design1.30.7Level 1 looks like: Draw a straight line 4 3/16 inches long
  • Engineering and Technology1.3—
  • Geography1.3—
  • Building and Construction1.2—
  • Chemistry1.2—
  • History and Archeology1.2—
  • Philosophy and Theology1.2—
  • Physics1.2—
  • Sociology and Anthropology1.2—
  • Therapy and Counseling1.2—
  • Biology1.1—
  • Food Production1.1—
  • Medicine and Dentistry1.1—
  • Fine Arts1.0—

Abilities

Enduring capacities the work calls for.

  • Written Expression4.14.0Level 4 looks like: Write a job recommendation for a subordinate
  • Written Comprehension4.04.0Level 4 looks like: Understand an apartment lease
  • Oral Comprehension3.83.9Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
  • Near Vision3.63.6
  • Oral Expression3.63.9Level 4 looks like: Give instructions to a lost motorist
  • Problem Sensitivity3.43.0Level 2 looks like: Recognize that an unplugged lamp won't work
  • Speech Clarity3.42.9
  • Deductive Reasoning3.33.0Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
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  • Information Ordering3.33.0Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
  • Inductive Reasoning3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Decide what to wear based on the weather report
  • Speech Recognition3.13.0Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
  • Category Flexibility3.03.0Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
  • Fluency of Ideas3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Name four different uses for a screwdriver
  • Selective Attention3.03.0Level 2 looks like: Answer a business call with coworkers talking nearby
  • Originality2.92.8Level 2 looks like: Use a credit card to open a locked door
  • Flexibility of Closure2.82.6Level 2 looks like: Detect that your phone is ringing while at a concert
  • Number Facility2.82.6Level 3 looks like: Calculate a discounted price
  • Mathematical Reasoning2.62.6
  • Speed of Closure2.62.6Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
  • Far Vision2.52.3Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
  • Perceptual Speed2.52.1Level 2 looks like: Sort mail according to ZIP codes with no time pressure
  • Time Sharing2.31.9Level 2 looks like: Listen to music while entering numbers into a spreadsheet
  • Memorization2.12.0Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
  • Visualization2.02.0Level 2 looks like: Imagine how to place paper in a printer so that the letterhead comes out on top
  • Wrist-Finger Speed2.01.6Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
  • Auditory Attention1.91.5Level 2 looks like: Listen to a lecture while people nearby are talking
  • Finger Dexterity1.81.1Level 2 looks like: Put coins in a parking meter
  • Trunk Strength1.81.3Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
  • Visual Color Discrimination1.81.0Level 1 looks like: Separate laundry into colors and whites
  • Hearing Sensitivity1.60.8
  • Depth Perception1.3—
  • Arm-Hand Steadiness1.1—
  • Dynamic Strength1.1—
  • Manual Dexterity1.1—
  • Control Precision1.0—
  • Dynamic Flexibility1.0—
  • Explosive Strength1.0—
  • Extent Flexibility1.0—
  • Glare Sensitivity1.0—
  • Gross Body Coordination1.0—
  • Gross Body Equilibrium1.0—
  • Multilimb Coordination1.0—
  • Night Vision1.0—
  • Peripheral Vision1.0—
  • Rate Control1.0—
  • Reaction Time1.0—
  • Response Orientation1.0—
  • Sound Localization1.0—
  • Spatial Orientation1.0—
  • Speed of Limb Movement1.0—
  • Stamina1.0—
  • Static Strength1.0—

Work activities

Kinds of activity the work is made of.

  • Working with Computers4.53.6Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates4.13.9Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
  • Getting Information4.13.5Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
  • Documenting/Recording Information4.03.0Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
  • Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work4.04.7Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
  • Performing Administrative Activities4.03.9Level 4 looks like: Complete tax forms for a small business
  • Processing Information3.94.2Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
  • Communicating with People Outside the Organization3.83.6Level 4 looks like: Present information to potential clients about available services
Show all 41
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships3.84.2Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
  • Making Decisions and Solving Problems3.63.5Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
  • Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events3.53.4Level 4 looks like: Judge the suitability of food products for an event
  • Analyzing Data or Information3.33.2Level 4 looks like: Determine the interest cost to finance a new building
  • Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge3.33.6Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
  • Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings3.13.4Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
  • Performing for or Working Directly with the Public3.13.0Level 4 looks like: Sell shoes in a crowded shoe store
  • Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others2.92.5Level 1 looks like: Interpret a blood pressure reading
  • Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others2.83.2Level 4 looks like: Get two subordinates to agree about vacation schedules
  • Assisting and Caring for Others2.72.6
  • Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards2.72.6
  • Scheduling Work and Activities2.72.8
  • Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information2.62.5Level 1 looks like: Estimate the size of household furniture to be shipped
  • Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People2.62.3Level 1 looks like: Determine whether to remove a tree that has been damaged
  • Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others2.52.6
  • Developing Objectives and Strategies2.52.6
  • Developing and Building Teams2.52.2Level 1 looks like: Encourage two coworkers to stick with a tough assignment
  • Thinking Creatively2.52.3Level 1 looks like: Change the spacing on a printed report
  • Training and Teaching Others2.52.5Level 1 looks like: Give coworkers brief instructions on a simple procedural change
  • Providing Consultation and Advice to Others2.41.9Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that requires little advising of others
  • Coaching and Developing Others2.32.1Level 1 looks like: Show a coworker how to operate a piece of equipment
  • Monitoring and Controlling Resources2.32.3Level 1 looks like: Work as a server responsible for keeping track of utensils
  • Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates2.21.8Level 1 looks like: Work occasionally as a backup supervisor
  • Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials2.21.9Level 1 looks like: Check that doors to building are locked
  • Controlling Machines and Processes2.01.5Level 1 looks like: Operate a cash register
  • Handling and Moving Objects2.02.3Level 1 looks like: Change settings on copy machines
  • Performing General Physical Activities1.91.6Level 1 looks like: Walk between workstations in a small office
  • Selling or Influencing Others1.81.3Level 1 looks like: Convince a coworker to assist with an assignment
  • Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment1.50.9Level 1 looks like: Drive a car
  • Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment1.50.7Level 1 looks like: Use display settings to adjust a television picture
  • Staffing Organizational Units1.5—
  • Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment1.3—
  • Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment1.2—

Work context

The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.

  • E-Mail5.0
  • Contact With Others4.8
  • Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams4.8
  • Telephone Conversations4.7
  • Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals4.6
  • Importance of Repeating Same Tasks4.6
  • Spend Time Sitting4.6
  • Importance of Being Exact or Accurate4.5
  • Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team4.4
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled4.3

Technology

15 tools

Software used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.

In demand (5)

  • Epic Systemshot
  • Microsoft Excelhot
  • Microsoft Office softwarehot
  • Microsoft Outlookhot
  • Microsoft Wordhot

Hot (5; 5 more marked hot above)

  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • SAP software
Other tools (5)
  • Electronic data interchange EDI software
  • Electronic health record EHR software
  • GE Healthcare Centricity EMR
  • Healthcare common procedure coding system HCPCS
  • Imaging software

Related occupations

O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.

  1. Office Clerks, General
  2. File Clerks
  3. Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive
  4. Legal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
  5. Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
  6. Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants
  7. Billing and Posting Clerks
  8. Customer Service Representatives
  9. Credit Authorizers, Checkers, and Clerks
  10. Insurance Claims and Policy Processing Clerks

ESCO equivalents

From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.

Closest occupations

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Other O*NET occupations whose importance ratings on the 35 skills both rate are nearest to this one's, with the biggest differences named. A plain rule, not a hidden score.

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.