By
James
Updated on
Accurate typing skills and fast typing speed – yes, we’re talking about the requirements of data entry jobs.
With a boom in the work-from-home culture, more and more youngsters are seeking online data entry positions to work more conveniently at their own pace. Besides, even professionals are on the lookout for data entry jobs for some extra income.
Now, there is no doubt that online data entry jobs are a great source of income for all ages. But with a data entry job, there is always a hint of uncertainty and suspicion over its legitimacy. More so, since most data entry jobs are offered online, it becomes difficult to differentiate authorized outsourcing companies from their fake counterparts.
Hence, the question arises – is a data entry job worth it or simply a waste of time? Let’s find out…
What Are Data Entry Jobs?
A data entry clerk typically uses a computer system and suitable programs for data processing. So, one of the main data entry tasks is inputting data and ensuring correct information reaches the databases. For this, you may be asked to compile data from phone conversations, audio recordings, and more.
The medium of documentation can vary between paper or electronic media, and usually, it’s the employer who decides which method to use. Moreover, data entry job opportunities are available in various sectors, and you can choose to offer your services on a contractual basis or as a freelancer. You also have the liberty to choose between a full-time and part-time job.
So, if you boast exceptional typing skills and speed and want to work from the comfort of your home, data entry is your calling!
What Are Some Necessary Data Entry Skills?
This one is a no-brainer – you need to have good typing skills and speed to be eligible for data entry work. Consequently, you must know how to work on MS Office, MS Excel, and other programs, depending on your employer. You must also have organizational abilities and be able to meet deadlines, especially if you’re freelancing.
Moreover, qualities like courtesy, motivation, attention to detail, team spirit, and leadership are desired in most data entry tasks.
Besides, you may or may not require a bachelor’s degree, as academic requirements for a data entry position vary from one company to another. But needless to say, the higher your education level, the more desirable you will become for the data entry position.
As such, we recommend practicing typing and staying on trend with various computer programs that may help you offer better data entry services.
How Much Do Data Entry Jobs Pay?
Online data entry work pays fairly well, with the hourly wage starting from $14.06. While entry-level data entry job positions may pay lower, approximately $26,000 per year, experienced data entry professionals can earn around $38,343.
Besides your position in the data entry company, the pay may vary with your speed, the difficulty level of the task, and other factors. Regardless, freelancers, part-time workers, permanent employees, and independent contractors – everyone can earn well if they meet deadlines and work with dedication.
That said, while looking for online data entry jobs, it’s best to steer clear of companies or employers who claim to pay exorbitant amounts of money. Because, let’s be honest – data entry work is quite simple and sometimes repetitive. So, any job description that mentions unbelievably high pay for data entry work is most likely a scam.
Lastly, keep in mind that the payment structure may differ among various companies and employers. Some data entry jobs pay on an hourly basis, while others may pay according to the keystroke per minute. Some may also pay per work done, per audio minute, or per piece.
Moreover, those performing their online data entry work from home will get much less pay than those who work from the office.
What Is The Best Data Entry Job?
For beginners, the best data entry position is one that does not require a lot of skills and offers flexible work hours. But experienced data entry professionals may prefer working with advanced computer systems and using their knowledge in more challenging tasks. So, for them, medical coding and transcription jobs are ideal.
Given below are some online data entry platforms you must check for legitimate and lucrative work:
- Upwork
- Axion Data Entry Services
- TranscribeMe
- AccuTran Global
- Captcha Entry Sites
- Fiverr
- Elance
- Capital Typing
- Working Solutions
How To Identify Data Entry Job Scams?
No place is safe from fraudsters, and data entry job postings are no different. Many illegal companies resort to scamming honest job seekers and end up promoting a negative image of the data entry work culture as a whole. Unfortunately, the number of job scams in this sector has only increased as fraudulent companies are taking advantage of the rising popularity of remote work.
However, with a few factors in mind, you can avoid getting scammed and identify legitimate online data entry jobs. As such, given below are some red flags to watch out for while looking for data entry job opportunities:
- Asking for a fee for signing up, providing supplies, training for the actual job, etc.
- Asking you to pay for “certification” or additional “training”
- Vague salary details or unbelievably high hourly wage
- Job openings without interviews, applications, discussions with the employee, etc.
- Asking for your personal data, like your Social Security Number
Conclusion – Are Data Entry Positions Worth It Or A Waste Of Time?
Yes, data entry jobs are worth it, but you may get scammed if you’re not careful. Besides the tips we’ve shared above, you will have to use your better judgment too to avoid job scams.
More so because sometimes fraudulent companies can mimic the website of a legit company and post about online data entry opportunities to scam innocent job seekers.
While there’s not much one can do to stop the scammers, you can definitely report them. To file a report, we recommend reaching out to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Overall, we recommend opting for data entry as a freelancer or independent contractor to earn some extra bucks. On the contrary, working as a data entry clerk full-time may not be as rewarding as other jobs.
About The Author
Reviewed by
James
James is a writer who is a self-confessed kitchenware and coffee nerd and a strong advocate of Sundays, good butter, and warm sourdough.
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