The Truth About Legitimate Data Entry Jobs at Home

Beware of scam data entry jobs, but there are a handful of legit jobs available.

Work-at-home data entry jobs are actually somewhat more plentiful now than they were in the past. However, these positions often start out at very low pay, often at minimum wage or even lower, as independent contractors aren't often held to minimum wage regulations. There are also variations to the data entry positions as some may require collecting data from companies or individuals, or doing the research online and compiling data into spreadsheets. Above all, knowledge of how to type well, with proper grammar and spelling, and how to use Microsoft Excel and ACT! and other data entry software may be essential to landing a good position.

The Reality of Payment Expectations

Understand that data entry may not be simply typing or copying and pasting into a form. Some jobs that are that simple pay very little, and are often outsourced to other countries where the hourly rates are cheaper. If you look for these jobs, such as on Guru.com, eLance.com, Rentacoder.com and others, you may be competing with other people in other countries who may only work for $2 an hour. It takes additional effort to find higher-paying positions.

Types of Data Entry Jobs

There are various types of data entry positions. These may include survey taking, or customer service positions, as you collect data from clients and then enter them into spreadsheets and programs. Additional data entry may be from legal offices or medical facilities that need additional assistance with entering client data into a computer. These may be localized needs. Sometimes, the best way to get a legit data entry job is to get it directly from someone who needs that assistance. The more services you can provide, the more valuable you are to employers.

Learn by Example

The best way to learn about real job leads is to find a few websites you trust to give you leads. Study work-at-home forums and websites, such as RatRaceRebellion.com, WAHM.com and other websites, to learn about updated leads and to talk with other data entry people about how they got their jobs. Follow the procedures others have described. Ask about rates charged depending on location and the best method of contacting clients of various types, and learn where to find great leads.

Find the Scams

Those data entry jobs found often on Craig's List and through other means are often scams. They may ask for money up front before you are hired. They may tell you that you can earn $500 a week, or make unreasonable promises. If you want to work in data entry, you need to learn about these scams, as identified by the FCC.

Repeat Searching for Data Entry Jobs

Repeat these efforts continuously. Identify the scams, work on legit leads, and create your own leads through marketing your services. It takes time, but many people find they are able to pick up a job doing data entry at home within a few months of networking.

References

• Rat Race Rebellion
• WAHM
• FBI: Work at Home Scams to Avoid