Data Entry Careers

By Business & Finance Last updated Sunday, April/21/2024

Qualifications

A high school diploma represents the minimum qualification for data entry clerks. Training related to keyboarding and data entry can provide the necessary skills for success in the field. Coursework related to business and common computer software programs can pay dividends when working in a professional office atmosphere. Those looking to succeed in a data entry career should feel comfortable helping with administrative tasks related to the position, such as operating a copier and fax machine. In addition, work as a data entry professional requires a thorough understanding of grammar and punctuation.

Data entry professionals work a variety of shifts and may work evening, holiday and weekend hours. Data entry clerks have the option of full-time and part-time shifts. Depending on the visibility of your position and the shift, a casual dress code may be available. A position as a data entry clerk often requires extensive sedentary time in front of a computer or data keying machine. Attention to detail, dedication to accuracy and speed is often stressed in the position.

Every sector of the economy utilizes the skills of the data entry professional to some degree. The financial industry uses data entry workers to enter account information, compile statistical reports and process transactions. Government agencies, including those at the local, regional, state and federal level, hire data entry professionals for a variety of projects and positions. Consumer product corporations and retailers depend on data entry professionals to key in orders and process shipping information. Even physician's offices and hospitals use data entry workers to help enter and retrieve medical records.

The annual median wage for data entry clerks was $26,120 as of May 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). For data entry professionals employed in a word processing or typing position, median annual wages can increase to $31,390 according to the BLS. And while the BLS expects employment to decline through 2018, those seeking employment as a data entry professional will find favorable conditions as current workers advance and transition into other careers.