How To Get The Best Data Entry Jobs From Home

Data entry jobs have been around for a long time. In fact, they have existed since the inception of computers. As the world is becoming increasingly connected and information is digitally accessible, data entry jobs from home are becoming more and more popular, thanks to globalization.

Data entry involves the transfer of existing data from either a hand-written form or audio source and is less complicated than data mining.

People who perform data entry may be considered transcribers, word processors, typists, coders or clerks. Therefore, it’s key (no pun intended) to know how to use computers and be an accurate typer.

Since data entry jobs have a low barrier to entry, they don’t offer the highest pay, but the flexibility is one of the most appealing factors for those seeking a data entry job from home.

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What is Data Entry?

Data entry clerks take data from one source and transfer it to another location. In most cases, they use either a printed or digital spreadsheet to input the data into another form or spreadsheet. Data entry can also involve the transcription of audio files.

Why Work From Home?

Did you know that on average, employees spend 70 minutes a day commuting to and from work?

Working from home can obviously prevent this time waste associated with commuting, but it also has additional benefits like:

• Reduced stress
• Increased safety
• Beneficial for the environment
• More time for chores, self-care, exercise and social life
• Personal satisfaction
• Freedom to travel and live where you want

The truth is that a lot of data entry jobs can be done from home, but many companies will first require on-site training before they let you work remotely.

Why Data Entry?

Data entry is a good solution for those looking to make extra income on their own time. It’s especially beneficial for students who need extra money, or anyone who needs to work from home because they are busy raising a family or even studying online at an institution like University of the People.

For those in finance or administration roles, data entry experience can be considered a stepping stone and offer practical skills for better job performance down the line.

Earning Potential

Since most of the jobs don’t require experience or education, they aren’t known for being the highest paying positions. But, the luxury of working from home and earning around minimum wage or less may still be an optimal decision.

According to the BLS, the average income is about $15 per hour, which is likely for on-site jobs as the positions that work from home can pay less because the benefit is remote work.

There are different ways that data entry jobs can pay. These include and vary based on one’s own skills and the task at hand:

• Hourly wage
• Per Piece
• Keystrokes Per Hour
• Keystrokes Per Minute
• Per Audio Minute
• Per Word

Depending on your speed of entry, the pay may increase.

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Skills Needed

Most employers of data entry positions will test your typing skills — both speed and accuracy. For the most part, data entry jobs require a typing speed of at least 20 to 30 WPM (or words per minute). They also require strong organizational and communication skills.

1. Computer Skills

Since most data entry jobs are done on the computer, they will require that you understand the basics of the following so that you can perform the job efficiently.

• Typing
• Spreadsheets
• Word
• PowerPoint
• Emails
• All Google Products

2. Organization Skills

Since data entry relies heavily on attention to detail, it means that you’ll also need to know where to properly store the data so that nothing gets lost in the transfers.

• Keeping files and folders straight
• Attention to detail

3. Communication Skills

Working from home means that the digital communication lines need to be strengthened to stay in touch with your employer to give regular updates and receive feedback.

• Regular emailing
• Online chat communications

How to Choose the Right Job and Avoid Scams

Since there are many remote data entry jobs, you need to be aware of the offerings and selective in choosing the roles to take. Look out for the following:

• Avoid things too good to be true
• Don’t pay to get a job
• Be wary of training programs

Before giving out any personal or bank information, be sure to verify the company is legitimate by checking out online reviews and researching the website. If the pay seems too high to be true, it most likely is, so be sure to perform due diligence before sharing personal information.

Best Resources to Find Data Entry Jobs

So, where can you find data entry jobs?

There are many resources, including lists like this one. Here’s a look at some of the options:

• Lionbridge: Offering part-time only positions, Lionbridge requires the passing of a typing test to get hired.
• Cass Information Systems: Requires on-site training before being able to work from home.
• Data Trace: Occasionally hires for remote positions.

Online Job Boards

There are also generic job board sites like Indeed.com or FlexJobs where you can search for data entry positions. Furthermore, tailored freelancer sites like Upwork may offer data entry positions.

Alternatives to Data Entry Jobs

If a data entry job isn’t the right fit for you, but you still want to try working from home, there are other options that may better suit your skillset. These include:

1. Virtual Assistant:

Virtual assistants provide administrative assistance to employers or individual business owners. They perform tasks like answering emails, making travel arrangements, scheduling meetings and more.

2. Freelance Writing:

Freelance writers complete writing tasks on a project basis, which can mean writing books, articles, websites and more. They typically report to an editor or project manager within a business.

3. Proofreading:

Proofreaders ensure that there are no errors within written texts.

Wrap Up

For those who want a low-stress and flexible work from home job, data entry could be a solid option. Although the pay is low, it can add up given an adequate volume of work.

Since the skills are generally universal, like quick typing and organizational skills, data entry jobs offer transferable job skills for whatever may come next in your career.