Data entry jobs from home are among the top opportunities that beginner remote workers go for.
As working from home becomes an increasingly popular option for employers and employees worldwide, data entry jobs from home are made available, offering a perfect blend of flexibility and convenience, unlike most corporate jobs.
Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, a student, or just looking to switch careers, these positions can provide a fulfilling and rewarding career path.
Please keep reading this article as we discuss what you must know about this industry, from its common challenges to tips on getting your first job as a data entry specialist.
What Is Data Entry?
This involves entering and organizing data into electronic databases or spreadsheets, including everything from customer information and sales data to medical records and research findings.
It’s a prime industry for those with great keyboarding skills and an ability to deliver accurate results under deadlines because more and more companies look for talented data entry clerks that can help them organize and store their data electronically.
What Are the Roles of a Data Entry Specialist?
As a data entry specialist, the roles can vary widely depending on the company or industry but generally include accurately and efficiently inputting various information into a computer system or database.
Some of the specific roles and responsibilities of a data entry specialist may include the following:
Entering data
This is the primary responsibility of a data entry specialist or clerk.
Many companies record a large volume of sales in a business day, and so need someone that can assist in entering these sales figures and other financial information into electronic formats.
Checking for accuracy
He must be detail-oriented and ensure that the information entered is correct.
He should also check for inconsistencies or errors in the data to ensure it is complete and accurate.
Managing databases
The data entry specialist is responsible for maintaining and updating company databases.
He may need to enter new data, update existing data, and ensure the database is organized and easy to access.
Performing quality control checks
Depending on the client’s demands, a data entry specialist should also conduct quality control checks to ensure that data is entered accurately and consistently across different systems.
Collaborating with other departments
A successful data entry process involves collaboration. So, a data entry specialist may need to work closely with other departments, such as accounting or marketing, to ensure the information stored is accurate and up-to-date.
Maintaining confidentiality
Data entry specialists may have access to sensitive information.
They are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality and protecting the privacy of individuals and organizations.
Skills Required from Professional Data Entry Specialists
- Accuracy: If you observed well, you’d notice that most of the already-discussed roles of data entry specialists have something to do with accuracy. Therefore, you must have a penchant for accuracy before considering this field.
- Basic knowledge of database software: To succeed in a data entry job from home, you will need basic computer skills and proficiency in programs such as Microsoft Excel. You’ll work with them when adding, organizing, and editing data.
- Strong typing skills: One of the client’s requirements may be transcribing audio meetings into text formats. Hence, you need to sharpen your typing skills to deliver real-time results.
- Knowledge in a specific industry: Depending on the company and industry, you may also need specialized knowledge in areas such as finance or healthcare.
Other skills include:
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to respect deadlines.
- Great organizational and communication skills.
Why Consider Data Entry Jobs from Home?
Besides allowing you to work from anywhere with an internet connection and set your own schedule, starting a data entry career will enable you to work with employers across various sectors.
This will offer opportunities that increase your income and enable you to gain the experience you need to succeed in your online career.
More so, data entry jobs don’t require very high technical skills or qualifications.
You can be hired at an entry-level with just a basic understanding of software like Microsoft Excel spreadsheet program or Microsoft Office.
Challenges of Data Entry Jobs from Home
While data entry jobs from home can be a great way to earn money and have a flexible schedule, they are not without their challenges.
Working from home can be isolating and require high self-motivation and discipline.
Additionally, the pay can be lower than other types of work (in a few cases), so it’s important to consider your financial needs before pursuing this job.
Types of Data Entry Jobs from Home
Data entry is a varied industry with various administrative roles you can take on when working for an organization. These jobs can be offered full-time, part-time, or freelance.
Furthermore, the potential pay of remote data entry jobs may depend on your skills and experience, with an hourly rate ranging from $11-$17, according to PayScale.
In this section, we cover the various kinds of data entry jobs and their average annual/hourly pay according to Indeed.
Data Entry Clerk
When employed as a data entry clerk, you’re expected to collect data in paper formats from a company, verify, organize, and transfer them into computer files or spreadsheet programs.
Average Annual Salary: $39,100 per year.
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants provide administrative and support services by working remotely with a company. Some of their tasks include managing calendars and email accounts, scheduling appointments, and responding to phone calls on behalf of the client.
Average Annual Salary: $61,404 per year.
Transcriptionist
A transcriptionist converts audio or video recordings, such as interviews, podcasts, webinars, TV shows, and so on, into written or electronic documents.
He must ensure that the document accurately reflects the content of the recording.
Average Annual Salary: $44,114 per year.
Data Miner
As a data miner, you’re responsible for extracting meaningful insights from large data sets by performing strategic data analysis and research.
Average Annual Salary: $80,042 per year.
Proofreader
Proofreaders review written materials like manuscripts to ensure the material is error-free and meet the intended purpose. This position is usually offered on a freelance or contractual basis.
Average Annual Salary: $18.75 per hour.
Tips for Starting a Solid Data Entry Career
The key to succeeding in data entry is to follow these tips below:
- Develop basic computer skills: You should be comfortable using a computer, including typing, navigating software programs, and using basic keyboard shortcuts.
- Learn data entry software: Familiarize yourself with data entry software such as Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. These software programs allow you to enter and manipulate data in a spreadsheet format.
- Practice typing speed and accuracy: Data entry involves a lot of typing, so you should focus on honing your typing speed and accuracy. Practice using online typing tutorials, or consider taking a typing course.
- Build your attention to detail: Data entry requires high accuracy and attention to detail. Always double-check your work to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Develop good communication skills: You may need to communicate with clients or other team members, so developing strong written and verbal communication skills is important.
- Search for data entry job opportunities: Start looking for data entry job openings online or through staffing agencies. You can also check with local businesses or government agencies to see if they have any data entry needs.
- Keep learning: Stay up-to-date with new technology and industry trends by taking online courses or attending workshops and conferences. This can help you develop new skills and increase your value as a data entry specialist.
- Be professional: When working with clients, be honest about your rates and services. Respect deadlines, be transparent about your work progress, and make sure you deliver quality work to establish a positive reputation and earn the client’s referrals.
FAQs About Data Entry Jobs from Home
Can anyone become a data entry specialist?
Yes, but you should have a basic understanding of various software and computer applications, including spreadsheets and word processors.
Which site is best for data entry jobs?
Many websites offer data entry job opportunities, but if you’re looking for a scam-free one, it’s definitely FlexJobs.
Is data entry in high demand?
Of course, the data entry industry is projected to grow to over 3% in the next 10 years, thanks to a study by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
And more companies have been outsourcing data entry tasks to remote workers recently.
Data Entry Jobs from Home – Final Thoughts
Data entry jobs from home offer a fantastic opportunity for individuals to work from the comfort of their own homes, with flexible schedules and the ability to earn a decent income.
With the increasing demand for accurate and reliable data entry, there has never been a better time to explore this field.
So, whether you’re looking for a full-time or part-time job to supplement your income, data entry jobs from home are worth considering.
With hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn, you can succeed in this field and enjoy the freedom and flexibility of working from home.
Got any questions or comments? Feel free to leave them with us, as we will respond soon!
READ NEXT: Work-from-Home Typing Jobs You Should Look Out For in 2023