Office boy is an administrative clerk or assistant found within a business office environment. This is an entry-level position, often filled by recent graduates or interns who are still enrolled in an academic institution. Individuals in this role perform a variety of basic administrative duties. The term “office boy” may be perceived as a pejorative term.
Reception Work
An office boy answers incoming calls, routing them to the proper individual and taking messages when appropriate. This individual may also greet guests when they visit the office.
Filing
Organizing and maintaining records is often the responsibility of this professional. The office boy typical follows a predetermined protocol (for example filing alphabetically, by geography, etc.) when performing this task.
Photocopying
An office boy must learn to fully operate a photocopying machine. He may be asked to photocopy one item for his supervisor or many, such as participant material for a large conference.
Typing and Dictation
An office boy is often required to type internal and external correspondence per the dictation of a supervisor. This may include memos, press releases, contracts, etc.
Scheduling
Within certain environments an office boy may also act as scheduler. In addition to managing department calendars, he may also schedule conference room bookings, customer/client appointments and vendor service calls.
