what is a data entry professional?

Data entry focuses on inputting information into various files, records and software. When you do data entry, you collect information from records and enter it into a database or a document application like Word. Data entry jobs involve a lot of computer work, but some professionals also transcribe data into paper records or audio recordings. Data entry professionals often input new customers into a company's customer database, transcribe meeting notes into an official document or input financial information into accounting software. Everything that involves writing, typing or entering information is data entry work. There is a wide variation in the level of responsibility given to data entry professionals. While some enter huge amounts of routine data into basic software, others sort information and decide what to do with various pieces of data.

where do data entry professionals work?

The field of data entry is very broad. Most people picture data entry as a job done by administrative workers in an office. Many offices hire people to work in data entry. However, almost all industries need data entry workers. You'll find data entry jobs in industry, hospitality, manufacturing, creative environments and more. Any field involving information storage needs data entry.

Would working as a data entry professional suit your clerical and computing skills? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a data entry role.

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average data entry clerk salary

According to National Careers, the salary of an entry-level data entry clerk is £15,000 per year. Entry-level jobs usually require minimal experience or skills and attract a lower salary. When you are experienced in data entry and have specialised skills in using computer applications or transcriptions, your compensation package increases to £25,000 per year.

Since the role is primarily entry-level, it carries few extra benefits. However, you will have multiple opportunities to build your salary. For instance, employers pay higher hourly rates for overtime, and you can also receive bonuses for completing jobs on time.

factors that impact data entry professionals' pay

Data entry salaries vary a lot since the tasks differ. For example, one job may involve simply entering customer data into a spreadsheet, while another might include using complex programmes and working with highly specialised equipment. In general, more complex jobs requiring independent work pay higher. You also get a higher salary if you work as a full-time data entry professional instead of a temporary assistant. Job location affects your pay as well. If you work in a high-end business or a region with a high cost of living, expect a higher salary.

male sitting at his desk looking down, focused.
male sitting at his desk looking down, focused.
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types of data entry professionals

The main types of data entry jobs you will encounter include:

  • remote data entry: remote data entry professionals complete their tasks in a remote location. You choose your work hours depending on the workload and the clients' time zones. Most employers pay remote data entry workers per project or by word count instead of hourly wages.
  • in-house data entry: as an in-house data entry professional, you complete data entry tasks for one client or multiple in-house clients. The work involves data entry jobs like transcription, and you receive hourly wages for your work. Some employers also provide full employment benefits.
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working as a data entry professional

Becoming a data entry professional involves entering data and information into computers. The role is labour-intensive as it requires typing large documents or transcribing hours of recordings. Read on to learn more about a data entry professional's specific responsibilities and skills.

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education and skills

To become a data entry professional, complete the following qualifications:

  • college course: you don't need a post-secondary qualification to get a data entry job. However, acquiring more skills improves your career prospects. You can take a Level 1 or 2 certificate for IT users at college to build your computer skills. Some data entry workers start with a Level 2 diploma in business administration.
  • work experience: to become a data entry professional, prior experience in a similar role is an advantage. You can start with internships and volunteer work to build your typing and data entry skills.

skills and competencies

Some of the skills that a data entry worker needs include:

  • computer skills: you must be familiar with computer programmes since you will input and edit electronic data. You require proficiency in using Microsoft Office, scanners and printers.
  • language skills: as a data entry worker, you need excellent reading and writing skills. Your job involves writing documents, and you need exceptional proofreading skills to avoid mistakes.
  • self-motivation: you often work with minimal supervision and need self-motivation to complete your tasks. Sometimes, your duties are repetitive; without self-motivation, you cannot complete your tasks on time.
  • attention to detail: as a data professional, you need to be detail-oriented to deliver high-quality work. For instance, you must input and store accurate information in computer databases.
womale sitting in front of her computer, looking away
womale sitting in front of her computer, looking away
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FAQs

FAQs about working as a data entry professional

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