A data entry job entails capturing data from a given source, such as written notes, into a computer program. Kinds of data that people may capture include handwritten notes, information from spreadsheets, numbers, letters and symbols for building a program, or simply names and addresses.
Capturing data into computer programs is a natural extension of the work that started on typewriters, where information was typed into neat documents. Quick typists, especially those with fast number pad skills, are always prized by employers in data capturing jobs.
People working in data entry for a while usually develop very quick typing skills. There is no room for error when typing data into a program from paper or other sources. Software programs in development will not work if there is a typo in the coding, so 100% accuracy is vital here. Misspelling names of valuable clients or business partners in published documents can be the fault of data capturers who are not careful enough.
Data entry roles must have focus and concentration. Maintaining a good posture is very important if you work at a desk all day. You should allow regular breaks to rest your hands and eyes. Just five minutes resting per hour might help prevent you from turning into a mole stuck hunched in your chair forever. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the fear of every data entry clerk, so be sure to exercise your hands regularly.
Some computers can speed up data entry using scanners to read documents and convert the information into formats for the desired program.
Misguided pessimists believe these methods will be the end of data capturing, but actually it should make your job easier. Computers are being developed, for example, to understand speech, so transcribing from recordings could become a thing of the past.
To prepare for the possibility of robots taking your job you should develop skills for moving into other areas in the company, which may require picking up some new skills. As an example, if your job is entering code for websites, it would be wise to learn how to use software for programming to make you more employable in the future.
