Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 11 (34%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 18 (56%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 3 (9%)

• Create, maintain, and enter information into databases.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Use computers for various applications, such as database management or word processing.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Set up and manage paper or electronic filing systems, recording information, updating paperwork, or maintaining documents, such as attendance records, correspondence, or other material.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Compose, type, and distribute meeting notes, routine correspondence, or reports, such as presentations or expense, statistical, or monthly reports.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Complete forms in accordance with company procedures.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Conduct searches to find needed information, using such sources as the Internet.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Open, read, route, and distribute incoming mail or other materials and answer routine letters.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Review work done by others to check for correct spelling and grammar, ensure that company format policies are followed, and recommend revisions.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Train and assist staff with computer usage.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Take dictation in shorthand or by machine and transcribe information.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Develop or maintain internal or external company Web sites.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Answer telephones and give information to callers, take messages, or transfer calls to appropriate individuals.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Greet visitors or callers and handle their inquiries or direct them to the appropriate persons according to their needs.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Operate electronic mail systems and coordinate the flow of information, internally or with other organizations.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Schedule and confirm appointments for clients, customers, or supervisors.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Maintain scheduling and event calendars.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Locate and attach appropriate files to incoming correspondence requiring replies.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Make copies of correspondence or other printed material.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Learn to operate new office technologies as they are developed and implemented.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Prepare conference or event materials, such as flyers or invitations.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Perform payroll functions, such as maintaining timekeeping information and processing and submitting payroll.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Collect and deposit money into accounts, disburse funds from cash accounts to pay bills or invoices, keep records of collections and disbursements, and ensure accounts are balanced.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Establish work procedures or schedules and keep track of the daily work of clerical staff.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Provide services to customers, such as order placement or account information.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Prepare and mail checks.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Arrange conference, meeting, or travel reservations for office personnel.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Manage projects or contribute to committee or team work.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Coordinate conferences, meetings, or special events, such as luncheons or graduation ceremonies.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Mail newsletters, promotional material, or other information.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Operate office equipment, such as fax machines, copiers, or phone systems and arrange for repairs when equipment malfunctions.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Order and dispense supplies.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Supervise other clerical staff and provide training and orientation to new staff.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task