Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Typist Roles – 2025

Preparing for a typist job interview? This guide provides a list of essential questions and answers that will help you showcase your typing speed, accuracy, and experience working with a variety of documents and software. Whether you're applying for a role as a legal typist, medical transcriptionist, or general typist, these questions cover all key areas of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Tell us about your typing experience and speed.
  A: I have been typing for X years and I have a typing speed of X words per minute.
• 2. How do you ensure accuracy in your work?
  A: I double-check my work for any errors and use spell check and grammar check tools.
• 3. How do you prioritize and manage multiple tasks?
  A: I prioritize my tasks by deadline and use a to-do list to stay organized. I also communicate with my team to make sure we are all on the same page.
• 4. How do you handle a high-pressure, fast-paced work environment?
  A: I thrive in fast-paced environments and I stay calm under pressure. I prioritize my tasks and focus on completing them with accuracy and efficiency.
• 5. How do you handle confidential information?
  A: I understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality and I follow strict protocols to ensure sensitive information is protected at all times.

Situational Questions

• 6. What would you do if you received a document with unclear handwriting?
  A: I would try to decipher the handwritten words as best as I can and if it is still unclear, I would communicate with the sender for clarification.
• 7. How would you handle an urgent document that needs to be typed quickly?
  A: I would prioritize this task and communicate with my team to see if anyone can assist me in completing it. I would also work efficiently and accurately to meet the deadline.
• 8. How do you handle difficult and demanding clients?
  A: I remain calm and professional and try to understand their needs and concerns. I communicate clearly and provide solutions to resolve any issues.
• 9. What would you do if you found a mistake in a document after it has been typed and submitted?
  A: I would inform my supervisor as soon as possible and take responsibility for the mistake. I would also ensure that the corrected version is submitted promptly.
• 10. How do you handle conflicting instructions or guidelines?
  A: I would clarify and confirm the instructions with my supervisor to ensure I am following the correct guidelines.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 11. What software do you have experience with for typing and organizing documents?
  A: I have experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and Google Docs for typing and I use Trello and Asana for organizing documents and tasks.
• 12. What formatting and editing skills do you possess?
  A: I am proficient in using formatting and editing tools such as headers and footers, page numbers, and track changes.
• 13. Have you worked with legal or medical terminology before?
  A: Yes, I have experience transcribing legal and medical documents and I am familiar with the terminology used in these fields.
• 14. How would you handle a large volume of data to be typed?
  A: I would break down the data into manageable chunks and prioritize them according to deadline. I would also use templates and shortcuts to ensure efficiency.
• 15. Can you give an example of a time when you had to meet a tight deadline for typing a large document?
  A: In my previous role, I had to transcribe a 100-page document within 24 hours. I managed my time effectively, worked efficiently, and completed the task accurately before the deadline.

Cultural Fit Questions

• 16. How do you handle constructive criticism?
  A: I see constructive criticism as an opportunity to improve and learn. I am open to feedback and take it positively to enhance my skills.
• 17. How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?
  A: I am a team player and I communicate openly and respectfully with my team members. I am also willing to lend a helping hand and offer support when needed.
• 18. Are you comfortable working independently or do you prefer close supervision?
  A: I can work well in both settings and I am flexible in taking on tasks independently or under close supervision.
• 19. How do you handle repetitive tasks?
  A: I understand the importance of accuracy and consistency in repetitive tasks and I make sure to maintain focus and attention to detail.
• 20. How do you keep up with the latest technology and software updates?
  A: I make an effort to attend workshops and training sessions to stay updated on the latest technology and software in the industry. I also do my own research to learn new skills and techniques.