Data entry specialist jobs are considered to be one of the top entry-level careers. These positions are in the field of administration and are offered by many organizations. They primarily involve tasks such as converting hard copy records into digital copies and entering data into a system.
If you are looking for a career that involves task-based work and requires someone with a careful eye, then data entry might be a good fit for you.
Data Entry Specialist
The task of a data entry specialist involves inputting and entering data into a system. This could encompass:
- Converting manual hard copy company records into digital copies
- Entering figures into a database or spreadsheet
- Recordkeeping
In this position, your tasks will primarily consist of entering data accurately on a daily basis using a computer. According to ZipRecruiter, the typical annual salary for a data entry specialist amounts to $37,974.
How Do You Become A Data Entry Specialist
Data entry specialist positions differ from one company to another, typically serving as an introductory position that can be accessed by individuals holding a high school diploma.
To work in data entry, a degree or certificate is not necessary. However, possessing strong soft skills such as communication, patience, organization, and diligence is essential. Additionally, basic computer proficiency is a requirement.
If you are able to rephrase the following text step by step without adding or removing any information, there is a high probability that you will be successful in securing a job in data entry.
The process of becoming a data entry specialist begins with the search for a suitable data entry job. This involves finding a data entry role that is suitable for you. We suggest using ZipRecruiter to search for data entry positions. However, before doing so, it is important to ensure that you have a well-prepared cover letter and resume to include with your job application.
You can utilize an online service from the list below to have your resume professionally crafted and customized for a data entry career. These services are recognized as the best resume writing options available.
Skills And Requirements To Become A Data Entry Specialist
In addition to communication, here is further information about the additional skills and requirements necessary to become a data entry specialist, which you have learned about.
- High school diploma or GED
- Basic computer skills
- Organizational and time management skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Team player
- High attention to detail and accuracy
A More Detailed Ways To Become One
Explore Data Entry Specialist Education Requirements
If you have an interest in becoming a data entry specialist, you need to think about the level of education required. According to information from real resumes of data entry specialists, 37.8% of them possess a bachelor’s degree.
When it comes to higher education levels, it is observed that 3.5% of data entry specialists hold master’s degrees. Despite the fact that certain data entry specialists possess a college degree, it is still possible to pursue this career with just a high school degree or GED.
Pros and Cons of Working as a Data Entry Specialist
Considered as with any profession, working as a data entry specialist comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Below are some of the positive and negative aspects associated with this job.
Pros of Working as a Data Entry Specialist
- Entry-level job
- Remote positions available
- Flexible schedule
- Low stress
Upon observation, it is evident that the advantages of this job encompass its suitability for beginners. Typically, possessing a high school diploma or GED is the primary qualification for engaging in data entry. It is not necessary to possess specialized skills, expertise, or a specific background to carry out this role.
There are numerous job openings for remote-friendly data entry positions that can be done from home. If you are searching for a remote work opportunity, this job is a suitable choice.
This job often has a task-based nature, which means a flexible schedule is possible. Employers commonly offer flexibility in the work schedule as long as all tasks are completed by the deadline. Further details about remote data entry jobs can be found in our guide.
Apart from the occasional demand of meeting deadlines, working in data entry is generally a low stress job, making it a position with minimal pressure.
Cons of Working as a Data Entry Specialist
- Tedious, repetitive tasks can get boring
- Job advancement may be stagnant
- Not high-paying
The disadvantages of data entry can involve the monotony of the task-oriented work, which may become uninteresting. This might not be an issue for some individuals, but for those seeking stimulating and challenging work, data entry may not provide that opportunity.
Job advancement opportunities are not as abundant compared to other positions. While there might be a chance to progress into a higher-level position, such as office manager, for instance, this potential opportunity and any future promotion possibilities might not be accessible.
Data entry specialist jobs do not typically offer high salaries, with an average annual income of approximately $40,000. Although it is possible to come across higher paying positions, earning anywhere from the high five figures to six figures per year is improbable.
Side notes
An individual who is responsible for inputting data into digital storage is known as a data entry specialist. However, their responsibilities go beyond data entry, as they also need to maintain existing digital databases and create new ones.
They participate in data queries, collaborate with colleagues to organize data, and gather and sanitize client data as needed. Excellent organizational skills are essential, as well as proficiency in computer applications like Excel, Ninox, and Kintone.
Data entry specialists play a crucial role in organizations, contributing to important tasks. It is an ideal job for individuals seeking entry-level positions, as it does not demand experience or a college degree. Moreover, this opportunity offers the possibility of working remotely, engaging in low-stress work, and potentially having a flexible schedule.
