Why do employers want 60 wpm?

Question

I have been looking for data entry and word processing work.

I have excellent grammar and spelling and general office skills but due to a minor disability cant get my typing speed up above 45 - 50 words a minute!

Most employers seem to want 60 minimium? Why?

I can understand being rejected cos I'm over qualified for some roles and over aged for others and I do have a few minor disabilities and medical problems but none that would effect me doing clerical / office work?

I do have some clerical experience if anyone's wondering?

I also only have basic level skills with Excel and MYOB and accounting type programs.

I do have DTP and graphic design skills but not with Abode products!

Answer 1

Well, in a clerical job, where typing is a major portion of the job, employers want to know that you have the skill level they are looking for.  You should put 50 WPM on your applications and some may look at you, but others may not because it does not meet their minimum standard.  When you do interview, emphasize the skills that you do have and sell yourself as the best fit for the job.  That's what most employers are looking for -- fit.

If you can't seem to get the interview, then look at doing something else.  While I work for our state government here in Texas, I also started my own health and wellness business to supplement my income, and plan to retire early.  My company is expanding into Australia on July 2nd and having pre-launch meetings in the next couple of weeks.  If you are interested, PM me and I can hook you up -- and you could put your considerable skills to work working for you!!

Answer 2

The 60 wpm standard has become routinely accepted in business as a bencmark of professionalism and achievement.  Sometimes, when people in positions of power don't know anything in depth, they micro-manage, and this requirement is a prime example.  Don't let it get you down-either don't volunteer your speed (don't lie or deny, either!). The right opportunity be laid out before you.