If you are looking to hire a data entry freelancer, you will find it relatively easy if you know the right set of skills.

Today, many companies are looking for these kinds of professionals not only because the rates are cheaper but also because the results are much faster.

So what skills that you should require from a prospective talent?

Fast, accurate typing

Data entry requires accurate fast typing skills because it usually involves a high volume of numbers, medical codes, contact information and more.

As a client, you are looking for a quick turnaround time so the talent needs to be able to touch type with at least 60 words a minute although 80 to 90 words is preferred.

Not only do they need to be competent in typing, they will also need basic clerical skills and competency with computers.

Some of the most common programs that they will need to know which are used in data entry are the following:

• Microsoft Access
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microsoft Word files including Google Docs
• Project and Open Office

Your freelancer will need to be proficient in these software programs. In addition, they will find that a great deal of their day will be spent on analysing data and entering it into spreadsheets or content management systems.

hiring data entry freelancer

Why does this matter?

Knowledge of software and accurate typing enables your talent to transfer large amounts of text into a file system or electronic forms.

They will be required to upload a wide variety of data from purchase receipts to insurance records.

Some companies use Optical Character Recognition (OCR) software technology to transfer data into the completed format.

Then again, some other companies will require your talent to type it while others will give them dictation.

Depending on your needs and goals, your freelancer has to be competent in organizing and updating data, checking for accuracy, deleting unnecessary files, transcribing information, scanning documents and other general clerical duties.

Posting a data entry job can also go under names or positons such as:

• Information Processing Worker
• Data Entry Specialist
• Data Entry Clerk

So, your hiree has to be detailed-oriented with good focus and should be able to work quickly and accurately.

Test their skills & make sure that they are up to speed

It is a must for you to test their typing speed. This can be done online where there are free typing tests.

The results must reach at least the minimum of 60 words a minute and be sure to ask for them to send these results as proof.

A high level of accuracy is probably the most important task in data entry so never hire someone you has a high score of mistakes.

It goes without saying that your talent will also need a fast internet connection with a permanent email address to complete the projects and be able to receive projects and communicate with you.

Someone who has gone a step further

A freelancer can also be proven to be proficient in typing if their credentials show that they have undergone additional training specializing in projects like medical transcription or paralegal research.

Bottom Line?

Don't just look at their resume. Make sure that you hire someone who has really mastered the skills and verify if they are indeed proficient with the job.