Completion of one or two years of college-level business courses is desirable. Some employers may substitute training for part or all of the work experience required to qualify for higher-level positions. In other industries, Stenographers may not have a clear career path, but may expect increases in pay and responsibility. Government workers ordinarily must pass a test to be eligible for the next classification. Experienced Stenographers with administrative skills and appropriate personal traits may advance to secretarial, supervisory, or administrative assistant positions.
Some Stenographers are self-employed, working out of their homes on a contract basis.
Applicants should be prepared to take written tests measuring verbal ability and clerical aptitude, as well as typing and shorthand performance tests that are scored on the basis of accuracy and speed. Medical Secretaries No. 177 Clerks, General Office No. The purpose of this occupational guide is to provide you with useful information to help you make career decisions.