Official Course Description:   MCCCD Approval:  05/22/01
OCS100      20022-99999	L+L	1 Credit(s)	2 Period(s)
Basic Office Skills
Develop techniques and workplace skills to achieve professional office etiquette. Broad, basic knowledge and skills necessary for the workplace. Includes knowledge of basic business equipment, office documents and procedures, and telephone etiquette. Develop rapid writing techniques for note taking of messages and minutes. Use appropriate software and computers for office communications. Develop skills to enable efficient workflow management in a business setting. Investigate functionality and protocol of electronic mail systems. Prerequisite: None.

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MCCCD Official Course Competencies:
OCS100   20022-99999	Basic Office Skills

1.	Describe the importance of proper etiquette in the office. (I)
2.	Apply skills and strategies for efficient office workflow. (II)
3.	Explain the importance of taking accurate notes. (III)
4.	Demonstrate skill in rapid writing techniques. (III)
5.	Apply listening and other skills to accurate recording of meeting minutes. (IV)
6.	Take accurate minutes at meetings. (V)
7.	Use appropriate software and computers to transmit electronic mail efficiently and effectively. (VI)
8.	Write or electronically transmit clear and concise memos. (VII)
9.	Describe the importance of confidentiality regarding all office communication. (VIII)
10.	Use the office telephone system to transfer calls, take messages, set up conference calls, and screen incoming calls. (IX)
11.	Speak pleasantly and politely in telephone conversations. (X)
12.	Determine the most appropriate delivery method for various types of mail. (XI)
13.	Schedule meetings and maintain an office calendar. (XII)

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MCCCD Official Course Outline:
OCS100   20022-99999	Basic Office Skills

I. Etiquette in the Office A. Importance of etiquette in the office B. Etiquette skills and applications 1. Making introductions 2. Personal workstation etiquette 3. Professional behavior II. Managing the office work flow A. Office workflow skills 1. Scheduling work tasks 2. Establishing deadlines B. Office workflow strategies 1. Dealing with the demands of other people 2. Interruptions III. A system of rapid writing A. Techniques for note taking B. Simplified spelling B, Simplified writing C. Abbreviations D. Shortcuts IV. Listening for important information A. Techniques for effective listening B. Obstacles to listening V. Developing speed and accuracy in taking minutes at meetings A. Selecting major points to record B. Practice VI. Electronic Mail A. Functionality and protocol 1. Choices of software 2. Methods/techniques VII. Memos A. Written B. Electronic VIII. Confidentiality/ethics IX. Business telephone equipment and skills A. Equipment 1. Types 2. Usage B. Techniques 1. Transferring calls 2. Leaving and taking messages 3. Conference calls 4. Call screening 5. Other X. Proper telephone behavior A. Etiquette B. Voice patterns C. Patience XI. Mail methods A. Types B. Choice of delivery method C. Pricing considerations 1. Economy 2. Speed D. Postal meters/scales XII. Calendar control A. Scheduling 1. Manual 2. Electronic B. Reminders: C. when and how

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