Computer data entry jobs involve the transcription of hand-written or printed records into the computer by typing in the data. Some examples of computer data entry are mail companies that require data entry clerks to type in the reference numbers of items of mail that have failed to reach their destination. This is to delete from their database, the relevant addresses which might be outdated. Or in a cash office, the job of a data entry clerk might be to type expenses using numerical codes into a database. The latter kind of computer data entry jobs will involve a great deal of feeding in financial data into a spreadsheet. Needless to say such computer data entry tasks would necessarily require accuracy of data entry.

With improved office methods the position of a computer data entry clerk is becoming increasingly scarce. The use of physically written documents is almost outdated. Within a company, it is easier for individuals to enter in data into their own computer as it emerges. It has become superfluous to employ another person full-time to do this task. Such a changed outlook is likely to make such vacancies related to computer data entry almost redundant.

People most qualified for computer data entry are good typists, especially those proficient at 10-key typing. A good computer data entry clerk would have to be a quick typist, be able to read and assimilated typewritten and hand-written documents and must be accurate. Data entry calls for concentration and focus. For this reason some find the task of a computer data entry clerk demanding and exhausting. Many factors are necessary to relieve monotony and fatigue. These include an ergonomically sound posture and taking frequent breaks to relieve the eyes and hands. Data entry clerks are susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome which can be prevented with stretching exercises and hand exercises.

In today’s environment, data entry no longer needs to be done in a workplace or office. There is a growing trend for data entry personnel to work out of their own home; updating websites, transcribing medical information or simply entering data. Numerous telecommuting computer data entry jobs are advertised that afford people with a great way to a flexible schedule. Working from home is an added benefit in computer data entry.

However, a computer data entry clerk would be well advised to exercise caution with a flood of scam offers which promise online jobs on payment of a fee. While the internet is rife with such scams, there are a number of genuine, reputable freelance sites that offer computer data entry jobs online and do not ask for a fee.

Computer data entry jobs typically pay from 10 to 15 US dollars an hour. People with specialty skills like medical transcriptionists command a better price.

At the present rate of change and progress, it is anticipated that computers that perform a data entry function by scanning and converting documents will replace many computer data entry jobs. Keeping this in mind, a prospective computer data entry clerk might seriously consider diversification of skills.

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