If the situation does not improve, the supervisor may recommend a transfer, demotion or dismissal. Clerical supervisors and office managers generally interview and evaluate prospective clerical employees. When new workers arrive on the job, supervisors greet them and provide orientation to acquaint them with the organization and its operating routines. Some may be actively involved in recruiting new workers by performing functions such as making presentations at high schools and business colleges. They may also serve as the primary liaisons between their offices and the general public through direct contact and helping to prepare promotional information.
Supervisors also help train new employees in organization and office procedures.
They may teach them how to use the telephone system and operate office equipment. Because much clerical work is computerized, they must also teach new employees to use the organization's computer system. When new office equipment or updated computer software is introduced, supervisors retrain experienced employees in using it efficiently. If this is not possible, they may arrange for special outside training for their employees. Clerical supervisors often act as liaisons between the clerical staff and the professional, technical and managerial staff.