Data entry jobs are exactly as the title implies. Specialists enter data into a system using electronic forms. Sometimes data is entered through an online form. Other times, it might be entered directly into a spread sheet. Data entry is a high demand position. All companies need data entry. The ones that try to do this on their own tend to struggle.
This post is going to walk you through the process of finding data entry jobs. Before moving on, I must point out that you must have experience with computers, typing, and basic clerical skills. These three skills are the bare minimum, and if you lack any of those skills, you should develop them before continuing.
Become Familiar with Different Software
Data entry will require you to have a diverse background in a lot of different types of software since each organization you work for might have different systems in place. The more software you can learn, the more appealing you will be in the eyes of potential employers. Here is a list of the most common applications used for data entry:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Access
- Open Office
Sometimes a company might use a system that they have developed in-house that might not be based on any of the above systems. Still, if you have experience with those systems, then a company-based one should be easy to learn.
Improve your Typing Speed
This one is huge for data entry! Your typing speed is going to directly relate to your efficiency. The bottom line is that the faster you can type, the more money you will earn. Of course, normal typing is much different that data entry. You won’t have spell checkers help ensure accuracy, so you’ll have to slow it down a notch. In other words, data entry specialists are not required to type 60 words per minute. But you should at least work on your typing skill and get it up to 30-40 words per minute.
With that in mind, accuracy is the most important factor in data entry. Much of the information comes in the form of codes and numbers, which you’ll be expected to type in with accuracy. In fact, I recommend that you learn to use the number pad for typing numbers rather that the top row of the keyboard.
Typing skills are improved through practice, so I recommend that you spend a few days taking online typing courses, and then start looking for data entry jobs. While you might make less, in the beginning, you’ll be improving your typing skills as you go.
Build Up Your Resume
An awesome resume is important for finding a great job. You need to have a well-established resume before you can start looking for jobs. Create it with a particular job in mind – at least in the beginning. For data entry, that would include experience with past data entry work, computer training, and any clerical work you might have done. You don’t need to include every small detail, but make sure your resume come across as professional.
While working as a data entry specialist, I encourage you to build your resume as you work. Once you have done enough jobs, you can include only past data entry experiences.
Pay Close Attention to Jobs You Apply For
Before applying for a job, make sure that you carefully read the description. Do they provide enough details for you to completely understand the job? Are they willing to pay what you’re worth? This is where so many beginners really mess up. They are so eager to apply for jobs that they end up landing horrible clients who only want to pay peanuts. These clients pay little and are highly demanding.