Data can help your company make business-critical decisions. And while computers have come a long way in their data analysis abilities, the raw data still needs to be entered into your system, usually by a data entry specialist.
Whether it’s a one-off or ongoing project, data entry employees are the administrative support your company needs to complete data projects and get the crucial information you need to support and inform your decisions.
How to Hire Remote Data Entry Employees
Determine the Duties
There are many types of data entry, and as you evaluate your needs, you may discover that you need more than one type of data entry specialist or someone who can perform multiple kinds of data entry. A few examples are:
- Basic data entry: inputting basic information (alpha or numeric)
- Transcription: listening to recordings and transcribing the information into written form
- Word processing: entering information for reports and other kinds of documents
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- Data cleaning: fixing or removing incorrect, corrupt, or duplicate information from a data set
- Email processing: sending, receiving, and processing email
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Define the Role
Once the duties are determined, you need to define the role. Will it be freelance, or is it a temporary project role? Perhaps you are looking for a more permanent employee? If it is a project-based job, is there potential for the candidate to be considered for other roles after completion?
It is necessary to outline the role clearly so that not only will you know what you are looking for, but you will also be able to accurately communicate the requirements to candidates. Plus, knowing the long-term goals of the role will help to outline the ideal candidate for the job.
Describe the Ideal Candidate
Data entry jobs are frequently in demand, and as such, figuring out what you are looking for in the ideal candidate is crucial in weeding out applicants that aren’t a fit. When looking at resumes and cover letters, make sure that candidates have the necessary skills for data entry as well as remote work.
Once the initial review of documents are done, you can employ a data entry skills test or assessment to make sure candidates match your needs. Exploring candidates’ skills this way also helps to process the high volume of applicants typically experienced when recruiting for these positions.
Think About the Perks
While higher pay will usually attract more applicants, your budget may limit what you can offer. Consider offering perks and benefits beyond salary to help make your position more competitive. That could include remote and flexible options, but you could also provide staff with equipment or offer a home office reimbursement. You may also want to offer training or performance bonuses.
Move Fast
Because the data entry field is so popular, you’ll likely find plenty of candidates to apply for your open role. However, top-tier candidates might be hired by your competition if you don’t move quickly. While you don’t want to hire too fast (and make a mistake), you also want to eliminate any possible bottlenecks that could hold up the hiring process.
Start with a job posting that clearly describes what the job entails and what you’re looking for in candidates. For example, be specific about the type of data entry the employee will perform and how fast they need to key in information.
Throughout the process, stay in close contact with candidates. Let them know how long the hiring process should take and when they can expect follow-up and answers from you. And if things are held up, let the candidates know that information too.
Finally, depending on your needs, you may want to utilize a pipeline listing. This type of posting can help you develop a pool of interested and qualified candidates that you can consider for current and future openings.
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As leaders in remote work and hiring, FlexJobs is here to help. We can help you hire data entry employees or candidates for any role. Set up a demo today to learn more.
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