When applying for a job that requires typing, how many words per minute (wpm) is acceptable?

Question

I have never had a job that specifically required alot of typing. I am trying to get into a new job market and would appreciate any advice you may have.

Answer 1

60-80

Answer 2

Every job is different on what they require speed to be. Your accuracy is far more important than your speed. In the old days, wpm were based on a typewriter. Unless you work for Fred Flinstone, you probably won't be typing. Computers now use a system of keystrokes instead of words per minute although some software programs still record WPMs. Go to a search engine and put in "free typing test" and see if you can find a website that will help you determine what your rate of speed and accuracy is. The best way to really know if your speed is acceptable for a specific job is to interview for it. You can also interview with an employment agency and let them test you and advise you not only on your speed and accuracy but will review your resume, throw out some trick question interviews, and critique your appearance and confidence. Those services (free to applicants) can be a gold mine of advice if you take criticism as constructive.

Answer 3

I would say that a solid 55-60 wpm will be fine. Some jobs post their typing requirement in their job descriptions. You can take some typing tests free online - just search Yahoo for these kinds of sites. You should be able to type 50 wpm to be taken seriously in your typing. But it all depends upon the job, too.

Answer 4

It really depends on the type of company you go to work for. For instance, my job I spend all day on the computer, but was never tested for it because it's not a requirement of my industry. However, say you wanted to become a legal secretary or something like that. Those jobs demand anywhere from 80-120+ wpm. Basic office jobs, I would think a 55+ would be good.
Good luck.

Answer 5

Since most jobs utilize computers, most employers assume people have a basic knowledge of the keyboard. In many cases they don't even ask. If you are applying for a job that would include a large amount of typing, I would think they would be interested in someone who could type 60 wpm or more. But there are probably a lot of other factors, like how well you might fit in, how well the interviewer liked you, stuff like that.

Answer 6

If you are looking for work as a secretary, you have to be able to type at least 75wpm without errors. However, most jobs that require only light typing just expect you to know how to type. I was a 401(k) consultant that wrote 401(k) plans and pension plans. I knew the correct way to type with all ten fingers, but they never asked me for a speed test. I can type about 30-35 wpm without errors. Hope this helps.

Answer 7

I would say that for a word processing position, you would need atleast 60-70 wpm. In a regular administrative position, you would need atleast 40-50 wpm. Alot of times, the hiring firm will test you in this as well. HTH

Answer 8

I studied in secretary/accounting and passing grade is 35 wpm. But i can score 60, so i guess 45 wpm is a good average.

Answer 9

60 wpm

Answer 10

48 wpm