The job of a data entry employee is not as different as it sounds. In that job someone enters data into an electronic form. Companies need data entry employees, so having experience in this field can help you find work in a variety of situations. To get a job as a data entry employee, you need to have experience working with computers, typing, and basic administrative skills.
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Part 1 of 3: Seeking Experience
Step 1. Understand the qualifications required for this position
Data entry jobs require a variety of skills and are not limited to one task or obligation. The responsibilities of data entry employees vary greatly depending on the needs and objectives of the company.
- In short, a data entry employee must transfer the information into an electronic form. Usually companies use forms from software that are specifically made to enter data.
- Data entry is a field with a very wide range. Data entry jobs are advertised under a variety of names, such as data entry specialist, data entry employee or information processing officer.
- Almost every company occasionally needs someone to enter data. This is the reason why data entry experience provides good prospects for getting a job. As a job seeker, experience in the data entry field will attract the attention of various companies.
- Jobs in the data entry field include preparing and organizing data, checking document accuracy, updating data, deleting unnecessary files, copying information into electronic formats, scanning documents, and general administrative tasks.
Step 2. Expand your knowledge
No special educational background is required to become a data entry specialist. You only need a high school diploma as a qualification for a typical data entry position. However, taking a course or taking a diploma program in a relevant field of study can increase your chances of getting the job. Telecommunications, computer science, and software development are areas of study that look impressive for a data entry employee resume.
Step 3. Build skills in using various software
For a data entry person, having a background in working with a wide variety of applications can make you a standout candidate. Various companies use a variety of software to enter data. The more software use skills listed on your resume, the better your chances of getting a job.
- The most common applications used for data entry are Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, Project and Open Office. Be aware that many companies store data in custom-built systems and may or may not be MS application based. Get to know various database applications with graphical user interface which is very useful for you.
- Many people say they have acquired various skills using the software by learning it following the instructions given and researching it themselves. You can also search online tutorials, many of which are free, to learn about basic software.
- Courses, diploma programs, and even community centers offer career-related computer skills classes. Look for information about what is available in your neighborhood and try to register.
Step 4. Practice typing speed
Typing skills are one of the most important assets in data entry jobs. This job includes a lot of administrative tasks, so you have to type a lot. This is not to say that typing is not the same as entering data. Typists usually have to type accurately at a rate of 60 words per minute or more. Data entry needs to be faster and more accurate because the data that has to be entered is often numbers and spell checking programs don't work on numbers!
- Accuracy is very important in the field of data entry. So much information is gathered in the form of codes, numbers, and prices that must be copied exactly. With the high volume of data that must be entered, you must be able to type fast (touch type). That is, typing without looking at the keyboard. Learn how to use the number pad to type numbers instead of the row of keys at the top of the keyboard.
- Speed is also important. The minimum speed most companies expect is 60 words per minute, although 80 to 90 words per minute would be a plus. You can find out your typing speed by taking a free online typing test.
- It takes time and practice to build typing skills. To improve your typing or data entry skills, try copying a document, such as a book or poem or newspaper article, every night before bed. You can also take typing courses organized by educational centers or community activities centres. In fact, practicing by taking an online typing test can improve speed and accuracy. Keep in mind that you will most likely not type sentences in data entry. Names, sales figures, product codes, and so on are common information that is usually entered into databases rather than newspaper articles.
Part 2 of 3: Applying for a Data Entry Position
Step 1. Polish your resume
A good resume is the first step to getting a job. Try to create the best resume before submitting an application to a company that has a vacancy.
- Write a resume for the job you want. Include your most relevant experience at the top of your resume. For data entry positions, experience may include relevant computer training, past data entry jobs, or administrative work you've had before. Also, don't include any experiences or achievements. Someone looking to hire a data entry employee doesn't need to know that you were a newspaper delivery boy in high school, for example.
- Your name and contact information should be placed at the very top of the page. Both should be clearly visible so employers can know how to contact you if they like your resume. use a slightly larger font and write your name in bold type.
- Pay attention to the job vacancies you are applying for. What keywords are used multiple times? Do many data entry job openings call for people who are well-organized on their own initiative? Use the term in your resume so that you look ideal for the position.
- Use main points. Achievements, skills, and job assignments should be listed using key points. This format will make your resume easier to read, thereby getting the attention it wants.
Step 2. Look for job openings in your area
When starting to gather information about the job you are applying for, first look for vacancies in the area where you live. Data entry positions are highly demanded by various companies, you may not need to move to another location to get the position.
- JobDB Indonesia can be a good choice for finding vacancies, but beware of scams. Poor grammar, fast response times, and interviews conducted via email or instant message are all things to watch out for as scams.
- Even though it's not as popular as it used to be, you can still find job openings through classified ads in newspapers. You can try looking for it in the local paper.
- A local employment agency may be able to help with information on where to send your application and even help with your application.
Step 3. Try online data entry positions
The Internet provides many opportunities for data entry work that can be done at home. Working remotely saves time and transportation costs, and working hours are often more flexible.
- A position like this may be a little more difficult to get. The convenience it offers makes this job highly sought after compared to other data entry jobs. Don't be discouraged if the quest takes longer.
- Online databases can be used to find data entry jobs that can be done at home. Try doing a search on jobstreet.co.id or locker.id. You may find other positions that interest you when you search for vacancies in your area of residence.
- Again, watch out for scams. Remember, if you get a very quick response and get the job very quickly, be careful. Poor grammar may be a sign that the message was sent via a spambot and not a human.
Step 4. Contact a contracting agent
For short-term data entry jobs, many companies prefer to hire temporary employees over permanent employees.
- While not ideal, being a temporary employee can at least help build your resume. This experience will open doors for you and be an opportunity to seek references and make connections.
- Agencies that work with contract workers often test skills by giving typing tests and using apps. This means potential employers can see solid evidence that your resume reflects true dedication. That way, it will be easier for you to get a job and not be missed.
- Sometimes, contract work can turn into a full-time job. If you get the position, try to make a good impression and stay in touch with your boss or supervisor.
Step 5. Practice good interviewing skills
If you are called for an interview, make sure you know about good interviewing skills. These skills will increase your chances of getting a job.
- Wear clothes that are appropriate for the job and the company you are applying for. You can seek information about dress codes from agencies or by asking someone in HR. A suit and tie, or casual work attire, is usually recommended if you are unsure about the company's dress code.
- Show that you are listening during the interview by maintaining eye contact, smiling and nodding, and asking questions when the situation is appropriate. Give short and concise answers and avoid long-winded speech.
- When the interviewer asks if you have any questions, it's a good idea to respond. Don't just say "No". You can ask about logistics, such as when they will call you back. Ask open-ended questions, such as, “How is the day-to-day working environment here?” and “What is the corporate culture like here?”
Part 3 of 3: Making Long Term Plans
Step 1. Study the average salary
While data entry experience is great for building a resume, most people don't do it for very long because the pay is relatively low compared to other positions in the office.
- Data entry employees earn around IDR 1,700,000 to IDR 4,000,000 per month. Most people are in the middle of this range receiving around IDR 2,500,000 per month.
- Promotion opportunities depend on the company and your relationship with the employer. However, there is no specific career path for data entry jobs and promotion opportunities may not be like other office job positions.
Step 2. Network with other professionals
Once you get a data entry position, try to maintain good relations with your coworkers and supervisors. Make a good impression and express your interest in a long-term career in data entry. This will increase your chances of getting a promotion and occupying positions with higher salaries and greater responsibilities in the future.
Step 3. Consider your long-term career goals
Often times, a data entry position can serve as a stepping stone to another job. Consider what you want to do in the long term.
- Administrative and customer service positions are often assigned to data entry employees who have a long history of flying. If you like people-related jobs, you can learn about these kinds of jobs and discuss with your supervisor how to get them.
- If your data entry is heavily math or science content, there may be opportunities for you to land computer science-related and other technical positions.
- Government organizations often provide training programs to help data entry employees improve their skills. After joining this program there is a possibility that you will get a position with greater responsibility. Look for information about programs that match your interests and goals in the area where you live.
