Most businesses today work with database systems and computer files. And a good portion of daily business tasks requires employees to enter data into these systems and files.
Because of the internet and the growing number of online file-sharing tools, anyone can access a company’s data from any location. A company can hire a data entry clerk who can work from home and online. Thus, remote data entry jobs are born.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the job description of remote data entry. You’ll also learn what types of tasks can a data entry clerk do and the qualifications needed to do them successfully.
Job Brief for Remote Data Entry
What does remote data entry mean? If you are considering hiring someone to do your company’s data entry tasks, it helps to understand all aspects of the position first.
Data entry is a broad category of job descriptions. Data entry, in general, deals with information: processing and storing them for the company’s use. But this information can vary across industries and company types.
The data entry needs for your company can involve simple transcription of receipts or invoices and purchase orders. You may also need data entry of stocks for inventory management or inputting information from surveys for market analysis.
Whatever your data entry needs, a data entry clerk or specialist can do them for you. And successfully, too, as long as you provide them with clearly defined work instructions and responsibilities.
Remote Data Entry Duties and Responsibilities
What exactly does data entry do? Data entry clerks or specialists are responsible for encoding data from multiple sources into a database. They also need to ensure the accuracy of the data entered by performing the necessary steps, like verifying data sources and editing the errors. Data entry clerks are also responsible for maintaining records and updating the data as needed.
Previous data entry jobs are involved only with data-related tasks. Data entry clerk positions nowadays also perform office-related tasks like reproducing and filing documents, answering calls, contacting clients or customers, updating stock inventories, preparing purchase orders, etc.
Types of Remote Data Entry Jobs
What types of companies can hire a remote data entry clerk? Any company that uses a database accessible through the internet can hire a remote data entry clerk.
Companies that can benefit from hiring a home data entry clerk can be from industries including technology, customer service, human resources, government, and hospitality. Below are some common types of data entry jobs based on the industry and the specific tasks involved.
- Clinical or healthcare
Hospitals, medical centers, diagnostic labs or clinics, etc., can use a remote data entry clerk to obtain and process all pertinent clinical information. A data entry clerk for a hospital, for example, can perform medical transcription, scheduling, billing, and other duties. A data entry clerk for a diagnostic lab helps record results and diagnostic information for doctors’ reference.
- Accounting and finance
A data entry clerk can also be assigned to manage data related to accounting. These data include sales and purchases, accounts payable or accounts receivable, assets and stock inventory, timesheets for payroll, and many more. A data entry clerk can also collect and manage the related documents for financial reports or financial audits.
- Research
A data entry clerk is also valuable for research-related industries by gathering and sorting information for easy analysis. A survey company can hire a data entry clerk to input answers from paper formats or forms into spreadsheets or digital database systems. A publications company can also hire a data entry clerk to help source documents and organize them for their reference.
- Real estate and property management
A data entry clerk can help real estate and property managers record and organize client and tenant information for easy reference. You can also assign a data entry clerk to track the progress of necessary forms and permits to ensure completion. A data entry clerk can also help process rent receipts, payments, and other financial data.
- Government and politics
A data entry clerk can also handle record-keeping for local, state, or federal government agencies. These agencies can hire data entry clerks to process public records and statistics for making public policies or regulations. This public information is also valuable for public servants and politicians.
Data entry clerk qualifications
The following are the essential skills and requirements employers look for when hiring a remote data entry clerk:
- Good communication skills
The key to any successful remote work is communication. Because remote data entry clerks are not physically present within company premises, they must keep constant and open communication with their managers or supervisors.
The ideal data entry clerk should have a masterful command of the language and can express themselves adequately in a professional setting. Having good communication skills is an exceptionally essential requirement for data entry clerks who also need to deal with customers.
- Attention to detail
Entering data requires a keen eye and attention to detail. A data entry clerk often deals with sensitive information, the accuracy of which is a strict requirement. Any errors and missing entries can have a vast and often negative impact on the business.
- Organizational skills
A remote data entry clerk is often given a variety of tasks that they need to accomplish in a timely manner. Without the ability to schedule and prioritize these tasks, a remote data entry clerk can easily fall behind on their tasks.
- Typing and computer skills
An excellent remote data entry clerk needs to have extensive knowledge in using Microsoft Office and Excel. These are the basic tools for recording data, and a data entry clerk should be able to use these effectively and efficiently. Fast typing speed and computer savvy are valuable skills for a remote data entry clerk.
- Ability to thrive under deadline
Data entry can involve time-sensitive information resulting in tight deadlines. A data entry clerk should work at a fast pace and have the grit and resourcefulness to thrive under deadlines. Commitment to deadlines can be the most essential quality in a data entry clerk or specialist.
- Experience
Data entry experience is not a critical requirement when hiring data entry clerks. But some positions may require related experience dealing with relevant data or information. Applicants with zero experience in remote data entry should have at least a working knowledge of dealing with office-related administrative tasks.
- Education
Entry-level positions in data entry often require a high school diploma or equivalent. Some roles may require candidates with a certificate in a program related to the position. Some roles may also require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
- Discretion
Data entry roles are often tasked to handle confidential information. Company owners and managers should be able to trust remote data entry clerks to show discretion and honor the confidentiality associated with their positions.
Remote Data Entry Jobs in Remote Raven
When hiring for remote data entry jobs, it’s critical to understand your needs, the job description, and the applicants’ qualifications. Hiring can be an overwhelming task, especially if you don’t have first-hand experience with this process.
Remote Raven, boasting decades of experience in working with data entry professionals, can help find the perfect data entry clerks for you. We have successfully connected hundreds of full-time and part-time remote workers to various company types and sizes.
A quick call with us, and you will be speaking with highly qualified and experienced data entry clerks in no time. You need data entry help because you need more time for your business, so why waste time searching and screening applicants? Give us a call today!
