In our data-driven world, finding the right data entry professionals for your team is a must. With a highly-skilled team, productivity typically rises, as well as the quality of their work.
Luckily, by focusing on the right skills, you can identify top data entry candidates quickly. If you need to add data entry professionals to your team, here are ten skills to seek out when reviewing candidates.
The Top Ten Skills to Look For In a Data Entry Professional
1. Fast, Accurate Typing
Ultimately, data entry requires a substantial amount of typing prowess. Along with a fast speed, a high degree of accuracy is also crucial.
Exactly where you set the line in the sand may vary depending on your company’s needs. However, if you aren’t sure where to begin, consider making 40 to 50 words per minute the minimum. Additionally, consider limiting the number of errors allowed in a typing test to just one or two, allowing you to focus on more accurate typists.
2. Software Knowledge
Ideally, you want to concentrate on candidates who are familiar with data entry-oriented software. This can include databases or spreadsheets, depending on the nature of the role.
3. Communication
Communication skills are essential for nearly any job. Ideally, data entry specialists should be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, ensuring they can discuss information with colleagues or customers using either approach.
4. Attention-to-Detail
Data entry is all about accuracy. Candidates with a high degree of attention-to-detail are better equipped to reduce errors. Additionally, they may be better at spotting any mistakes they make as they occur, allowing them to correct the issues immediately.
5. Office Equipment
Familiarity with standard office equipment is also a must for data entry professionals. While knowledge of computers is an obvious requirement, you may have additional must-haves based on the role. For example, if your data entry team has to listen to dictations to gather the information they need to enter, then dictation machines may need to be on that list.
6. Organization
Data entry professionals need to be fast and efficient. Job seekers with strong organizational skills are often more adept, as they can plan, sort, and prioritize their work more effectively than someone who struggles with organization.
7. Research
Many data entry specialists need to collect the information they’ll be entering. Strong research skills are, therefore, a must-have.
8. Database Structures
A solid understanding of database structures can ensure a higher rate of productivity. Additionally, it increases the odds that the chosen candidate can adapt if you need to change systems.
9. Teamwork
In most cases, data entry professionals work as part of a team. As a result, they need the ability to collaborate effectively with a group, as well as a willingness to focus on higher priority group goals over personal ones.
10. Self-Motivation
At times, data entry work can become a bit tedious. However, when a professional is skilled at self-motivation, they are able to push through even the dullest tasks more effectively, all without the need for external encouragement.
Need Help Finding Data Entry Talent? Contact Us!
Ultimately, all ten of the skills above are crucial for data entry professionals. If you’d like to learn more, the team at TempStaff can help. Contact us today.
