Data entry is one of the simplest ways to start earning online, making it perfect for beginners. Businesses everywhere — including NZ and US clients — need accurate data entry for reports, databases, CRMs, and spreadsheets.
Although it’s lower-paying than specialised skills, it’s fast to start, requires minimal technical knowledge, and can become recurring remote work.
What Does a Data Entry Job Involve?
Data entry tasks typically include:
- Typing information into spreadsheets or databases
- Updating customer information
- Transcribing text from scanned documents
- Converting PDFs to Word/Excel
- Cleaning up lists
- CRM input
Accuracy and speed are key. You don’t need advanced skills — attention to detail matters more than experience.
How Much Can You Earn?
Typical rates:
- Beginner: $10–$20/hour
- Intermediate: $20–$35/hour
- Experienced / specialised: $35+/hour
Monthly retainers depend on workload:
- Part-time: $300–$800/month
- Full-time: $1,200–$2,500/month
Some data entry jobs are per project, others are recurring monthly contracts.
Businesses That Hire Data Entry Professionals
High-demand clients include:
- Ecommerce stores (product lists, inventory updates)
- Real estate agencies (property listings)
- Small businesses (CRM updates, customer databases)
- Market research companies
- Financial services
If a business handles lots of data, they will pay for accuracy.
Tools You’ll Use
Most data entry work uses simple tools:
- Microsoft Excel – https://www.microsoft.com/excel
- Google Sheets – https://www.google.com/sheets
- Airtable – https://airtable.com
- CRMs – HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho
- PDF converters – smallpdf.com
No expensive software needed — most tools are free or low cost.
Step-by-Step: How to Start Data Entry Work
Step 1: Master Basic Tools
Focus on:
- Excel formulas (SUM, VLOOKUP, basic formatting)
- Google Sheets functions
- Accurate typing
- Shortcuts to speed up workflow
Free learning:
- Microsoft Excel Training – https://support.microsoft.com/excel
- Google Sheets Help – https://support.google.com/docs
Step 2: Build Proof of Accuracy
Before clients, practise by:
- Entering data from PDFs to Excel
- Cleaning up sample datasets
- Making mock CRM entries
Screenshot your work as portfolio proof.
Step 3: Choose a Niche (Optional)
Specialising increases pay:
- Ecommerce product entry
- Real estate listings
- Market research data
Step 4: Find Clients
Best platforms:
- Upwork – https://www.upwork.com
- Fiverr – https://www.fiverr.com
- Freelancer – https://www.freelancer.com
- Direct outreach to small businesses
Simple pitch:
“I help businesses save time by accurately entering and organising their data. Can I handle your spreadsheets or database updates for you?”
Step 5: Set Your Pricing
Options:
- Hourly: $10–$35/hour depending on experience
- Per project: $50–$500 depending on volume
- Monthly retainer: $300–$1,500 for recurring tasks
Recurring work = predictable income.
Why Data Entry Is a Solid Starting Online Job
✔ Fast to start
✔ Minimal technical skills required
✔ Remote & flexible
✔ Recurring client opportunities
✔ Builds credibility for higher-paying online work later
Many online freelancers start with data entry and graduate to virtual assistance, bookkeeping, or administrative management.
Ready to Start Making Money with Data Entry?
Open a spreadsheet today. Enter sample data accurately. Reach out to one business this week to offer your services.
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