Data entry clerk
Data entry clerks type information into databases and systems and create letters, reports and other documents.
Average annual salary (starting - experienced): £15,000 - £25,000
Typical hours (a week): 38 to 40
How to become a data entry clerk
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
You could take a college course to develop your computer skills while looking for work. Courses include:
- Level 1 Certificate for IT Users (New CLAiT)
- Level 2 European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) Certificate in IT User Skills
College (Entry requirements)
There are no set entry requirements for this route.
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job through an intermediate apprenticeship as an IT application specialist.
Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
Apprenticeship (More info)
equivalent entry requirements guide to apprenticeships
Work
You could move into data entry work if you've got office experience, for example, as an administrative assistant. Employers will give you training on the job, covering their data entry systems.
Direct application
You can apply for jobs directly if you've got experience of word processing, spreadsheets and databases. Employers may also ask for GCSEs in English and maths.
More info
Career tips You would normally be tested for keyboard skills and accuracy in entering data when you go for an interview. Further information You can get more details about careers in IT from The Chartered Institute for IT.
What it takes
Skills & Knowledge
You'll need:
- administration skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- customer service skills
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to work on your own
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- the ability to work well with your hands
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
What you'll do
Day to day
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- entering personal details of customers into a database
- entering information for classified adverts in a newspaper
- transferring paper-based market research results
- updating patients' medical records
- processing invoices
Working environment
You could work in an office.
Career path and progression
Career path & progression
With experience, you could become a supervisor or team leader. You could also train and mentor new employees.
