Data entry is simple work that requires no special skills. If you can type and follow instructions, you can do this. The pay isn’t amazing but it’s legitimate income while working from home.
What is Data Entry?
You enter information from one format into another. Common tasks include:
- Typing text from images or PDFs into spreadsheets
- Copying data between systems
- Updating databases
- Organizing information in Excel or Google Sheets
- Cleaning up messy data
It’s repetitive work but straightforward. No creativity or complex decisions required.
Requirements
Basic Skills:
- Typing speed of 40+ words per minute
- Basic Excel or Google Sheets knowledge
- Good attention to detail
- Ability to follow instructions exactly
Equipment:
- Computer or laptop
- Stable internet connection
- Quiet space to work
That’s it. No degree, no certifications, no years of experience needed.
Where to Find Data Entry Jobs
Clickworker Micro-tasks including data entry. Pay per task completed. Register, complete qualification tests, start working. Pay: Low but immediate. Usually 500-2000 naira per hour depending on tasks available.
Lionbridge Larger tasks, more professional. Need to pass assessments. Pay: Better rates, around $8-12 per hour for accepted workers.
Upwork Search “data entry” jobs. Lots of competition but opportunities exist. Build profile with good reviews to stand out. Pay: 1,000-5,000 naira per hour depending on complexity.
Fiverr Create gigs offering data entry services. Clients come to you. Start cheap to get first reviews. Pay: You set your prices. Start around 5,000-10,000 naira per project.
Freelancer.com Similar to Upwork. Bid on data entry projects. Lower rates work initially to build reputation.
Nigerian BPO Companies Some Nigerian business process outsourcing companies hire remote data entry workers. Check job sites like Jobberman.
Pay Expectations
Be realistic about earnings:
- Entry-level: 30,000-80,000 naira monthly
- With experience: 80,000-150,000 naira monthly
- Full-time commitment needed for higher end
This isn’t get-rich work. It’s supplemental income or stepping stone to better remote jobs.
Identifying Legitimate Jobs
Many data entry “jobs” are scams. Red flags:
- Asking for money upfront
- Promising huge pay for simple work
- No clear company information
- Payment only after recruiting others
- Vague job descriptions
Legitimate data entry:
- Clear tasks and expectations
- Reasonable pay rates
- Uses established platforms
- No upfront fees
- Professional communication
When in doubt, research the company thoroughly.
Tips for Success
Improve Typing Speed: Use free sites like TypingTest.com or Keybr.com to practice daily. Faster typing means more money.
Master Excel Basics: Learn sorting, filtering, basic formulas. YouTube has free tutorials. This opens better-paying opportunities.
Be Accurate: Speed means nothing if your work is full of errors. Double-check everything before submitting.
Meet Deadlines: Data entry is deadline-driven. Late submissions hurt your reputation and future opportunities.
Take Breaks: Staring at spreadsheets for hours causes mistakes. Take 5-10 minute breaks every hour.
Start on Platforms: Use Upwork or Fiverr initially. They handle payments and provide some protection. Move to direct clients once experienced.
Common Challenges
Low Pay: You won’t get rich doing data entry. Accept this reality upfront.
Repetitive: The work is boring. You need discipline to stay focused.
Inconsistent Work: Some weeks have plenty of tasks, others are dry. Income fluctuates.
Competition: Many people worldwide do data entry. You’re competing with workers from countries with lower living costs.
Eye Strain: Hours of screen time affects your eyes. Use proper lighting and take breaks.
Moving Beyond Data Entry
Use data entry as foundation, not career:
Learn Advanced Excel: Pivot tables, VLOOKUP, macros. These skills command higher pay.
Transition to Data Analysis: With additional learning, move into better-paying data analysis roles.
Virtual Assistant Work: Data entry experience helps in VA roles which pay more.
Develop Other Skills: Use data entry income to fund learning graphic design, writing, or coding.
Many successful remote workers started with data entry then moved on.
Realistic Timeline
Week 1-2: Set up profiles, complete tests, apply to jobs Week 3-4: Land first small gigs, build initial reviews Month 2-3: More consistent work, earning 30,000-60,000 naira monthly Month 4-6: Established presence, 60,000-100,000+ naira monthly possible
Your speed and availability determine earnings. Part-time work means part-time income.
Is Data Entry Worth It?
Yes, if you:
- Need immediate income
- Have limited skills currently
- Want to test remote work
- Need flexible hours
- Are building other skills simultaneously
No, if you:
- Expect high income
- Get bored easily
- Have better-paying skills already
- Can’t handle repetitive tasks
Final Advice
Data entry won’t make you rich but it’s legitimate work. Apply to multiple platforms today. Complete any required tests. Start with low expectations and build from there.
While doing data entry, invest time learning more valuable skills. Think of this as your entry point into remote work, not your destination.
Start by improving your typing speed this week. Then register on Clickworker and Upwork. Apply to 10 jobs daily. You’ll start earning within weeks if you’re consistent.