Data entry may seem easy when you think about just entering data into a computer. But it’s actually much more complicated than just entering data into a computer. This guide will explain what a data entry job is actually like, how hard it can be, and whether you are suited for one of these types of jobs.
What Data Entry Work Actually Involves
Data input employees move information through various formats. For instance, you may enter handwritten forms into the computer using a database, or transfer information from scanned documents onto spreadsheets. Additionally, based on communications via phone and email, you may verify your customers’ information or change a customer’s record if there is an update necessary.
The job needs concentration rather than experience. Most of the tasks are performed on common software such as MS Excel, Google Sheets, or specific database programs. The company will train the new employee in its software system. Prior experience may help with the job; however, it is not required to complete the job successfully.
Data entry is fast-paced. Productivity in this area is based on keystrokes per hour and how many records are completed. Therefore, a quota is a source of pressure for employees who enter data. If an employee types slowly and/or makes a high percentage of errors, they will have trouble achieving the required level of productivity.
Different Types of Data Entry Jobs
There are many types of data entry jobs. The most basic type is alphanumeric, which means typing in letters or numbers (e.g., email addresses, telephone numbers). Alphanumeric is also the most common type of data entry and is typically suitable for beginners. Medical coders must learn specialized medical terminology to do their job correctly. Financial data entry requires greater attention to detail because accuracy is critical when dealing with numerical data.
Remote data entry jobs have increased dramatically; many businesses employ people to work from home doing this type of work. Remote work provides individuals with a lot of flexibility; however, remote workers must have a lot of self-discipline due to the absence of supervision. There are many distractions when working remotely and without supervision, which can significantly decrease productivity levels for remote employees.
Here are common data entry job types:
- General data entry clerk
- Medical records clerk
- Accounting data entry
- Legal transcription
- E-commerce product listing
- Survey data processing
- Insurance claims processing
Salaries will depend on the area of expertise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the generic data entry salary is between $13-$18/hour. More experienced employees with a higher typing speed usually earn more when working in specialized areas such as finance or health care.
Is Data Entry Easy or Hard?
To be completely truthful, it’s both. The work itself isn’t complicated; it’s simple enough that anybody who can type and read can master the basics of data input. Therefore, minimal investment will be required for entry into this level of employment.
Sustaining performance can be challenging. Typing in similar kinds of information over the course of 8 hours is draining on your ability to concentrate. Monotonous work affects your motivation. While the job may seem easy at the beginning, it eventually becomes increasingly challenging due to the repetitive nature of the work.
Accuracy requirements create added pressure. For example, having a goal of 99% accuracy sounds great. However, when you realize that is placing you to make one mistake for every one hundred entries, it does not appear so good anymore. Some employers set their standards even higher, such as a minimum of 99.9% accuracy or greater. With this much pressure and quantity of entries, it can make it difficult for the majority of individuals on the job to maintain adequate performance levels.
Physical stress makes it build up. Typing too much repeatedly can lead to carpal tunnel and a host of other types of injuries to your hands/wrists. Eye strain is caused by data entry personnel having to look at screens all day long. Good ergonomics and adequate breaks will help with these problems; however, they do not completely eliminate these risks.
Skills That Make Data Entry Easier
Typing speed distinguishes between successful and unsuccessful data entry employees. Employers typically expect between 45 and 65 words per minute at a minimum speed, although faster typists usually have less work to do and feel less time pressure than those who type more slowly. The best way to determine your typing speed is by taking an online typing test.
Paying close attention to every aspect of your writing is vital. By identifying mistakes before submitting, you will significantly increase the accuracy of your submissions. The careful worker will find errors in their work that a careless worker wouldn’t even notice. This ability will improve with practice; however, many individuals are simply better at this than others.
Daily experiences are based on one’s ability to focus. If you have a tendency to zonk out while performing data entry, then this will frustrate you; if, however, you can focus on repetitive tasks, data entry will be performed effortlessly. Performing honest self-assessments should help predict an employee’s suitability for the position.
Other helpful skills include:
- Familiarity with spreadsheet software
- Basic math for numerical entries
- Ability to follow written procedures
- Comfort with routine and repetition
- Self-motivation for remote work
Finding Legitimate Data Entry Jobs
Fake data entry positions are all around. Scammers advertise data entry jobs that pay well, but the work is very easy. Scammers will request that you pay an application fee or provide personal information, and then they vanish. There are a number of legitimate data entry jobs; however, they require diligence in looking for them.
Reputable companies and those job sites that are able to provide safety from scams are more secure than individuals using social media to look for employment. The futurist site of Indeed.com, LinkedIn, and ZipRecruiter have postings that are actually coming from legitimate employers. An established business should be considered when checking companies, and significant background research should be done before applying to any unknown company.
Many data entry workers are placed in jobs through staffing agencies or firms such as Robert Half and Kelly Services. These agencies source temporary or permanent positions for workers, screen employers, and manage payroll to protect workers from being scammed.
Warning signs of scams include:
- Requests for upfront payment
- Promises of unusually high pay
- Vague job descriptions
- No company information available
- Pressure to start immediately
Exercise additional vigilance when handling remote job positions. Scammers often target individuals applying for office work-from-home data entry positions. To determine the legitimacy of a company, be sure to look at multiple sources and avoid sending money when applying for data entry jobs.
Career Paths From Data Entry
Data entry can lead to additional career options. An administrative assistant position is a natural progression from a data-entry position. An administrative assistant does data entry along with other responsibilities. An administrative assistant makes about as much money as someone who does data entry but has additional responsibilities.
Earning potential is higher for specialized paths. Certified medical coders earn $40K-$60+K. Bookkeepers use advanced skills to process business transactions. Database Administrators will use multiple technologies, but will find that these jobs pay well.
Most workers consider data entry to be a temporary source of income. Students, caregivers, and those transitioning into new careers often work as data entry operators while they pursue these other goals. Flexible working hours and the ability to work from home make this possible. By using data entry as a means to an end instead of an end in itself, it can help create realistic expectations for those workers.
Data Entry Work is Limited in Scope over the Long-Term. Due to Automation, many of the Routine Data Entry Tasks will be at Risk of Elimination. Optical Character Recognition and AI will Reduce the Need for Human Data Entry. Employees Entering the Workforce in Data Entry Should Focus on Developing Additional Skills.
Is Data Entry Right for You?
How tolerant are you of doing the same thing over and over again? If you dislike routine work and this frustrates you, then data entry could be a bad choice for you; however, if you enjoy working on something that is consistent and predictable, then you might be able to do well at it. The most important factor between these two would be whether or not your personality matches the person who is going to do the work – this is why a good personality fit is usually considered more important than an individual’s ability to actually perform the job duties.
Assess your current environment for remote working capabilities; you need a computer and reliable internet access. An effective ergonomic workstation will prevent injuries. A quiet environment will enhance your ability to focus on your work.
Consider your personal goals as they pertain to the pre-employment to present employment (data entry) stage of an employee’s career. This is an excellent way for you to supplement your income immediately while working toward another full-time job or career. However, if you are looking for a long-term career with advancement opportunities, then you would be better suited to find employment in another field.
Before applying, you should gauge your typing speed. You can find various online typing tests that only take a few minutes to complete and will give you an idea of whether you are subject to any minimum criteria. Improving your typing speed will make your application more competitive.
Sources
- Bureau of Labor Statistics: Data entry keyer occupation data (www.bls.gov)
- OSHA: Ergonomics guidance for computer workstation setup (www.osha.gov)
- Federal Trade Commission: Job scam warning signs (www.ftc.gov)
- Payscale: Data entry salary research (www.payscale.com)
