16. Data Entry Jobs

Data entry is a large field that comprises many different types of work. A data entry clerk may work primarily as a typist, a transcriptionist, a word processor, or may be involved in entering streams of data/information into various existing programs. Some data entry clerks also input information into programs that are being built or developed. Key skills for this type of work are typing speed, with speed in numbers equivalent to that on letters, accuracy in typing, knowledge of many office and data programs, and good spelling, punctuation and grammar. A person who works as a data entry clerk usually has at least a high school diploma.

Compare data with source documents, or re-enter data in verification format to detect errors. Compile, sort and verify the accuracy of data before it is entered. Locate and correct data entry errors, or report them to supervisors. Maintain logs of activities and completed work. Read source documents such as canceled checks, sales reports, or bills, and enter data in specific data fields or onto tapes or disks for subsequent entry, using keyboards or scanners. Load machines with required input or output media such as paper, cards, disks, tape or Braille media. Resolve garbled or indecipherable messages, using cryptographic procedures and equipment. Select materials needed to complete work assignments. Store completed documents in appropriate locations.

There still will be jobs available for the data entry clerk, with an average pay rate of about $28,000 US Dollars (USD) per year. Most clerks are hired on a full time basis, but some people work from home or part time performing data entry on an as needed basis. What type of information you’ll be typing largely depends on a company’s needs. You might be filling out the same type of forms every day for a credit card company, a government agency, or a hospital. Alternately, you may simply be entering combinations of letters and numbers, which on their own don’t make much sense. Some people find the work repetitive and dull, and others enjoy the act of typing accurately.

Certain data entry fields are growing. All the Internet sites, especially those with extensive catalogs of products may require significant data entry, which may need to be updated on a regular basis. This type of work for the data entry clerk generally involves entering streams of data in HTML code in order to update websites. In the medical field, the switch to maintaining computer records of patient’s means a significant amount of work to update files. We are currently just at the beginning of the “electronic revolution” in medicine, so it’s expected that work in this field will be needed for a long time.