Data Entry

Somebody who works in data entry will be responsible for entering and retrieving information to and from a computer system. They may also transfer information that is held in paper format into a computer file as part of an updating or modernising process. The normal duties for a data entry clerk could be something like the following:

Putting into the computer personal details of a person that is about to open a bank account.

Placing advertisements in a newspaper.

Transferring market research results that have been gathered in paper format.

Processing a sales invoice.

A data entry clerk will often work with both text and number formats and may put these into a spreadsheet or database. They might do this using manual means or by a pre-designed software programme or a companies own system. Data entry is required in many different fields and this might include, medical, education, banking and finance or sales and marketing for example.

A person does not need formal qualifications to work in data entry, though a lot of employers will prefer good GCSE results at grades A - C in maths and English in particular. It may be possible to get a job through an apprenticeship scheme, and some employers may like a previous knowledge of spreadsheets and databases though often on the job training is given.

As a rough estimate, someone working in data entry can expect to earn between 10 and 14,000 per year and up to 18,000 if the role entails other responsibilities such as customer service. To work in this area you will need good computer skills, ability to work in a busy office environment, good numeracy and literacy skills and excellent customer service.