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In this digital era, there is an increasing demand for data entry professionals to handle extensive digital data, including data collection, storage, security, and maintenance. Most data entry jobs are contracted online rather than the salary paid.

The demand for data entry jobs from home has grown over the years since the COVID-19 pandemic, although these jobs can still be done in the office.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics records reveal the estimated mean wages of data entry workers to be $17.28 hourly and $35,940 yearly. Although some industries supposedly pay higher than others.

Those top-paying industries for data entry workers are electronics and appliance stores, highway construction, electric power generation, postal service, and financial investment.

In addition, many data entry jobs are suitable for entry-level employees, but applicants for home-position jobs should be wary of scams and online fraud.

So, If you have skills in data entry or look forward to building a career in data entry, read this article to get tips and information on how to go about it.

What is data entry

Data entry is inputting hard-copy and soft-copy information, such as receipts, addresses, or survey responses, into a computer program. In some cases, data entry also includes scanning documents, transcribing audio files, or coding insurance forms.

This industry has many occupations, including transcriber, typist, coder, and so much more. Payment methods usually differ in this industry depending on your employer or the platform you work with.

Although the wages for data entry workers are pretty low, the payment rate is generally based on your typing speed – fast typers are likely to earn more.

Types of data entry jobs

There are two types of Data entry jobs which are

Remote workers
In-house workers

Remote workers

Data entry remote workers can choose where and when to carry out their duties. They are usually paid per project or keystrokes rather than hourly pay.

For remote workers, employers prioritize the ability to complete a task to the employee’s work history.

Generally, working as a remote worker can allow you to work full-time in another industry, pursue a degree, or be a stay-home mum.

In-house workers

In-house workers are likely to be paid hourly. Unlike remote workers, they enjoy merit bonuses, health benefits, and paid time off.

What does a data entry specialist do?

Data entry specialists manage the transfer of written information from hard copy to computer file by inputting pieces of information into a database.

They handle information that includes bills, reports, canceled checks, and other electronic databases.

Data entry specialists are hired by insurance firms, hospitals, real estate, retail companies, medical institutions, government agencies, and companies that collect data for different purposes.

What skills are required for data entry jobs?

There are no educational qualifications for a data entry job, but there are necessary skills you should have if you want to succeed. These skills are listed below.

Computer skills
Organizational skills
Communicational skills

Computer skills

All work is usually done using a computer, so you must have basic knowledge of the computer. They include:

TYPING: This is the most critical skill since most of the work is done by typing. It’s of great advantage to have good typing skills. The faster you type, the more task you complete and the more you earn.

SPREADSHEETS: Many companies arrange their data in spreadsheets; therefore, knowing how to use a spreadsheet is essential. Microsoft excel and google sheets are two programs you must learn to use for presenting data on a spreadsheet.

WORD DOCUMENTS: There is a chance that a data entry clerk will use Microsoft word at a point. The ability to format, edit and add links to documents will give you an edge in your career as a data entry clerk.
POWERPOINT: As a data entry clerk, you are less likely to use PowerPoint, but it would be of great advantage to know how to use it. It can be used for presentations and might be used for you as an employee.

Organizational skills

Being and remaining organized is an essential skill needed as a data entry clerk, especially when dealing with a large volume of data. It takes organization and discipline to come up with an accurate result.

As a well-trained and qualified data entry clerk, you must pay attention to details, keep files and folders straight and, most importantly, track deadlines. Having these skills will keep you from making costly mistakes.

Communication skills

Data entry jobs are mostly remote nowadays. Since you won’t be working in an office environment where it is easy to chat with your colleague, staying on top of online communication is essential.

As a remote worker, you can communicate with your coworkers and supervisors through emails, online chats, and video conferencing. Communicating effectively and understanding emails and instructions is a mandatory skill in data entry jobs.

Are there companies that hire for data entry jobs?

Yes, many companies hire for data entry jobs, but making proper inquiries before applying is necessary to avoid scams. Here is a list of 15 legitimate companies that offer the best-paying data entry jobs.

company	Average salary per hour(beginners)	Average salary per hour(experts)	Area of expertise
meta	$37	$115	They build technologies that connect individuals and companies.
Old dominion freight line	$17	$30	They deal with truck transportation and freight.
Amazon	$14	$19	They sell varieties of products online.
Davaco	$14	$21	Project and program management, technology solutions, and IT.
S&P Global	$11	$25	They provide research-based information for critical insight and statistics.
Intuit	$17	$31	They offer financial support to help individuals and small businesses.
Aerotek	$14	$16	Offers staffing and recruitment services.
Best Buy	$18	$19	Retailer for technology enthusiasts.
Adecco	$12	$21	A staffing agency that offers in-person and remote job opportunities.
Ajilon	$15	$22	They specialize in the placement of professionals in careers with some companies.
Haynes & Company	$17	$19	They provide consulting, analysis, and research services to clients.
Kforce	$16	$33	They provide direct-hire-staffing solutions in various industries.
iMPact business group	$18	$32	It’s a recruiting firm specializing in information technology, engineering, and finance.
Laselle Network	$13	$14	It’s a recruiting firm for various industries, including technology, finance, human resources, and many more.
Randstand	$14	$18	They provide clients in various industries such as IT, human resources, health care, etc.

What are the best data entry job sites?

Some data entry workers are hired as independent contractors rather than salaried employees. These remote workers apply for jobs online but are prone to online fraud.

Many positions ask for money to buy software or to complete training which is usually a scam. We decided to list trusted sites where you could apply for a data entry job.

Note that the site won’t be listed in order of worst or best; all the sites are 100% trusted.

Fiverr
Megatypers
Clickworker
Freelancer
Scribie
Lionbridge
Rev
Indeed
Upwork
1840 & Company
M Turk
Naukri.com
TranscribeMe

How to avoid scams

There are a lot of work-from-home scams posing as legitimate opportunities for data entry workers. Some come in the form of software purchases and training fees.

Applicants should also know that the wages for data entry workers are not usually high. So if any position presents a pay higher than normal, it’s likely to be a scam.

Here are some tips to avoid online scams for data entry jobs

Be wary of anything that seems good to be true. If you come across a job that promises to pay thousands for minor work, it’s likely to be a scam. Always keep your expectation realistic.
Don’t pay to score a job. No legitimate job will ask you to pay for a job or for training before you get a job. If you stumble on any of such, walk away.
Be wary of training programs. Legitimate employers expect applicants to be trained before seeking a job in data entry. So there is no need to pay for training. Also, do not work for free or collect a very low rate in the cover of the training process. There is no such thing as that.

Conclusion

Data entry jobs generally do not have great pay. The good thing about data entry jobs is that it’s remote-friendly. You can work anywhere and at any time of your choice. This job is suitable for students, stay-home mums, and individuals who want to earn extra cash.

Also, it should not be forgotten that the presence of online scams in data entry jobs is high because of the increased demand. It’s advisable to take precautions when applying for a job, especially for remote workers. Tips are already listed in the article.