What is a Data Entry Clerk?
Summary
If you are employed as a Data Entry Clerk/Operator, you are responsible for organising and accurately reporting information within a company. Administration Assistants or Receptionists are sometimes required to act as a Data Entry Clerk as part of their job description, however many organisations require full-time data entry operators to support business operations.
Sometimes known as “Keyboard Operators” Data Entry Clerks are required to maintain and store computer-based data by, transmitting, processing, inputting and accurately updating data. This data can be qualitative or quantitative depending on the type of industry they work in.
In Australia, data entry roles are common across multiple industries, including finance, healthcare, retail, and logistics.
Types of Data Entry Roles
The main roles of a Data Entry Clerk largely depends on the type of industry they work in and the services required by the business. Key roles include:
- General/Administrative – sometimes part of an administration role, general data entry tasks include managing customer information, processing customer orders, and maintaining accurate financial data.
- Medical – In the healthcare industry, a data entry clerk is responsible for collecting patient information, updating records, and assisting with financial records. This function is sometimes taken on by a medical receptionist.
- Transcriptionist – This role is important in legal and corporate environments; their key role is to convert audio recordings into written text.
- Data Processing, A data processor is usually required to input large volumes of information, usually this information is in the form of quantitative (number-based) data. You’ll typically find a data processor at a finance, government, or logistics firm.
Tasks Required
Data Entry Operators are required to respond to several key job functions, these tasks include:
- Data Input into databases such as; Excel, JotForm or other data entry systems.
- Checking and verifying the data accuracy.
- Maintaining and updating records as required.
- Organising both paper/physical and digital files for easy access.
- Generating reports to provide relevant information to stakeholders.
How to Get a Job as a Data Entry Clerk or Data Entry Operator in Australia
- Experience: Prior experience in administration or data entry is not always required but can be beneficial.
- Learn Key Skills: Understanding the basics of Microsoft Office tools such as; Outlook, Excel, and Word. Being familiar with Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems may also be necessary.
- Showcase your Soft Skills: Data Entry Clerks are often considered to have great organisational skills, time management skills and concentration.
- Search for Jobs: Consider reaching out to staffing and employment agencies that specialise in filling business support roles.
- Prepare a Strong Resume: Tailor your resume to the specific role you’re applying for.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What qualifications do I need to become a Data Entry Clerk/Operator?
A high school certificate is usually all that is required, but additional training in business administration or customer service can be an advantage.
What industries or business will hire Data Entry workers in Australia?
Data Entry Officers are employed across many different industry sectors, with the most noteworthy being government agencies, finance/accounting, and logistics.
What kinds of skills does a business look for when they hire a Data Entry Clerk?
Soft skills are highly valued, including organisational skills, attention to detail and time management skills. An important hard skill is Microsoft Office competency, including Excel and Word.
Can Data Entry Clerks work remotely?
Absolutely, a large number of data entry positions offer remote or flexible working arrangements. However, many industries still opt to hire on-site operators.
*This is to be used as a guide only and is not a representation of the roles we currently have available.
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