Want to ditch the 9-5 office grind and work from the comfort of your living room? Well, listen up because remote data entry jobs are exploding these days as more companies embrace the work-from-home revolution.
But here’s the catch: With so many people clamoring for remote data entry gigs, you need to bring your A-game to score one of these coveted roles. Don’t sweat it though – I’m about to dish out insider intel that will give you a HUGE leg up on the competition.
What Exactly Is Data Entry Work?
Before we go any further, let’s get on the same page about what data entry actually entails.
At its core, data entry is all about taking information from one source (like documents, spreadsheets, or web forms) and accurately inputting it into a computer system or database.
Some common data entry tasks include:
- Entering customer information into a CRM system
- Transcribing handwritten notes into digital files
- Updating product inventories and pricing details
- Inputting survey responses
- Tracking shipments and deliveries
Pretty straightforward, right? Well, fasten your seatbelts because finding a legit remote data entry job takes a whole lot more work than just opening up Word and hammering on your keyboard.
Why Companies LOVE Remote Data Entry Pros
Businesses of all shapes and sizes rely on remote data entry peeps for a huge array of tasks. Why? A few key reasons:
Cost Savings: Hiring remote data entry workers is WAY cheaper than having an in-house team. No need for fancy office space or equipment.
Flexible Staffing: Need extra hands on deck during busy periods? Remote data entry workers scale up (or down) staffing in a flash.
Access Global Talent: With a remote data entry team, the entire world becomes your talent pool – not just your local area.
As you’ll see, these benefits make remote data entry specialists highly sought after around the globe – including right here in the USA.
What It Takes to Score a Remote Data Entry Job (Hint: It’s NOT a Cakewalk)
OK, let’s level with each other: scoring a legit remote data entry job takes work. There are a TON of businesses and entrepreneurs looking to hire remote data entry freelancers.
But at the same time, there are millions of skilled workers from across the globe all vying for the same roles. The reality is that it’s a cutthroat competition out there.
Data entry companies want certifications, proven experience, and a bulletproof work ethic – especially for remote gigs where there’s zero in-person oversight.
For example, TDEC (a top data entry employer in the US) requires a minimum of two years’ experience in administrative data input or related roles, plus stellar typing speed and accuracy.
The good news? With the right training and prep work, anyone can become a top-notch remote data entry pro – even starting from scratch.
Step 1) Hone Your Typing Speed and Accuracy
Data entry lives and dies on your typing skills. The faster and more accurate you type, the more efficient you’ll be at pumping out high volumes of quality data.
In most cases, employers will require 30+ WPM (words per minute) typing speed with error rates under 2% or so. My tip? Use free online typing tutors and tests to get sharp and benchmark your skills.
For example, KeyboardingOnline has tons of free typing exercises and game-based practice to dial in your WPM and precision.
Step 2) Get Certified Up
Formal data entry training credentials go a LONG way towards convincing employers to hire you over other applicants. You’ll want at least one or two respected certs in areas like:
- Data entry and typing (e.g. Microsoft Office Specialist, CritiCall Data Entry Pro)
- Basic computer literacy and terminology
- Customer service and communication skills
- Niche-specific skills like medical terminology
Fortunately, you can score many data entry certifications through affordable online programs or even free platforms like Coursera and edX.
Step 3) Build Experience Through Freelance Gigs
Another way to bypass the catch-22 of needing prior experience to land data entry jobs? Grind it out on freelance gig platforms to build your portfolio and gain hands-on know-how.
Upwork, FlexJobs, and SolidGigs are just a few of many freelancer platforms with steady streams of data entry and administrative roles. Yes, the pay is modest at first, but quickly builds with experience and a track record of 5-star reviews.
For example, this part-time remote data entry job for UnitedHealth Group on SolidGigs requires NO prior experience and pays up to $30 per hour.
Step 4) Put Your Best Self Out There
With skills sharpened, credentials in tow, and some first-hand experience under your belt, it’s time to start aggressively applying for remote data entry jobs.
But this is another area where simply spraying and praying won’t work. Make sure your resume and portfolio highlight your data entry qualifications. And customize EVERY job application to prove you’re passionate about that specific position.
While job boards like Indeed, FlexJobs, and WeWorkRemotely are great for finding openings, don’t neglect the “hidden” job market too. Reach out directly to companies, join industry communities, and leverage your network.
For example, Belay is a niche firm that hires top-tier virtual data entry assistants – but you need a referral or inside connection to get your foot in the door.
The Bottom Line
Listen, nobody’s saying becoming a remote data entry pro is easy. But if you’re willing to put in some hard work upfront to build your skills, it’s very possible.
The payoff in return? Flexibility to work from anywhere in the country while collecting steady income from legitimate companies and entrepreneurs. In my book, that type of lifestyle is worth a little elbow grease.
What are you waiting for? Take those first steps now towards a legit, freedom-filled remote data entry career! I’ll leave you to it.