At many companies you can find jobs for data entry workers. This job involves inputting numbers and information into databases. Workers may also perform clerical and administrative duties.
Data entry and information processing workers can be called word processors, typists, and data entry keyers, or electronic data processors, keypunch technicians, and transcribers.
Data entry jobs typically demand long hours in front of a computer. They input numbers, prepare correspondence, mail letters, and key in other text. Some create statistical tables and combine materials from different sources to form a report.
Data entry keyers input lists of items, numbers, or data such as personal information, medical records, or membership lists, into computers or complete forms. They must go back and verify that each entry is correct. They may work in billing so attention to detail is important.
Correct punctuation, grammar, spelling, and excellent proofreading skills are some traits employers look for when they hire people for data entry jobs. They should also be familiar with a variety of office equipment, including computers, scanners, copiers, and faxes.
Some data entry operators specialize in inputting highly technical material that requires a skilled eye. They may key in complicated tables and aggregate material from a variety of sources to create complex reports. They also may reformat existing data, edit current information, or proofread new entries for accuracy.
To get a job in data entry, the right person must be accustomed to sitting for long periods of time. Typically travel is not involved. The person must be able to read long lines of numbers and text. Fast typing is generally a very important requirement, as the data entry specialist may be required to key in multiple documents over the course of a day.
These jobs do not typically require anything higher than a high school diploma, unless the job is highly technical. Data entry workers are often hired right out of high school. They acquire their skills skills in keyboarding and in the use of word processing, spreadsheet, and database management software in high schools, community colleges, business schools, temporary help agencies, or using self-teaching implements.
Jobs in data entry are expected to decline at a fairly rapid pace, more than the average decline, according to statistics from the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. The BLS cites improved technologies and greater social acceptance of workers performing their own data entry and information processing work as factors that will lessen the need for these workers, except for highly detailed or sophisticated work.
However numerous job openings are expected to be available so companies can replace workers who transfer to other occupations.
