Data Entry Keyers: Understanding the Occupation, Career Growth and Education Requirements
As businesses continue to expand globally, they require an increasing amount of data entry keyers. Data entry keyers are professionals who input, organize and maintain data in various computer systems and databases for organizations, governments, hospitals, and other businesses. This occupation may seem simple, but it is essential to maintaining accurate records and ensuring the smooth running of business operations.
Examples of a Data Entry Keyer Job
The following are examples of jobs that require data entry keyers:
- Processing customer orders
- Updating patients’ medical records
- Entering financial statements
- Entering payroll data
- Executing administrative tasks
Education and Training to Become a Data Entry Keyer
There is no formal education requirement to pursue a career as a data entry keyer. In most cases, a high school diploma or equivalent is adequate. However, some positions may require relevant coursework, on-the-job training or have specific technical skills or software experience. For instance, some employers prefer individuals who have experience with data entry software such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Oracle, or QuickBooks.
Community colleges and vocational schools offer data entry-related courses and certificate programs. However, aspiring data entry keyers can learn computer skills, speed typing, and data entry keystroke techniques online through various online courses and platforms such as LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Coursera. Volunteering to do data entry work for non-profit organizations or small businesses can give beginners a chance to gain some work experience.
Progression and Advancement in Data Entry Keying
Entry-level data entry keyer positions do not offer much room for significant career development. However, with more experience, data entry keyers can advance to supervisory or managerial positions. The key to success in this field is to focus on increasing your speed, accuracy, and attention to detail when it comes to data entry. Individuals with excellent keyboard typing skills, problem-solving skills, and the ability to pay close attention to details will typically progress faster.
How to Get Started in the Field
Becoming a data entry keyer is an excellent option for those seeking an entry-level job. The field provides multiple opportunities to build a career that can lead to supervisory or managerial positions. If you are new to this field, the best way to get started is by applying for entry-level positions in various fields that require data entry keyers, even if it’s part-time or temporary. Look for internships, volunteering experiences, or online courses that offer hands-on experience with data entry. Build a portfolio of your work to showcase your skillset and increase your chances of getting a full-time job as a data entry keyer.
| Geography | Occupation | Union | Job Level | Average Salary (Low) | Average Salary (High) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US National Average | Data entry keyers | Nonunion | All levels | $36,816.00 | $34,112.00 |
| US National Average | Data entry keyers | Union | All levels | $43,929.60 | $47,112.00 |
| District of Columbia | Data entry keyers | Nonunion | All levels | $51,854.40 | $42,203.20 |
| El Paso, TX | Data entry keyers | Nonunion | All levels | $29,224.00 | N/A |
Data entry keyers are typically classified under Level 02, Level 04, and Level 05 job positions in the United States. The national average salary for Data entry keyers is $31,907.20 to $41,766.40, depending on the job level.
Employees under a union typically earn a higher income than those who are nonunion. The national average salary for unionized Data entry keyers is $43,929.60, while nonunionized personnel earn $36,816.00.
Furthermore, those employed on a full-time basis typically earn more than their part-time counterparts. Data entry keyers on a full-time basis earn a national average salary that ranges from $32,988.80 to $41,974.40, depending on the job level.
The District of Columbia is the location where Data entry keyers earn the most money. Nonunion employees in this area have a national average salary of $51,854.40. El Paso, TX, on the other hand, is the city in the country where Data entry keyers earn the least income. Nonunion employees in this city have a national average salary of $29,224.00.
Overall, unionization has a significant impact on the salary of Data entry keyers. Additionally, geographical location plays a crucial role in determining the average salary earned by individuals in this occupation.
