Do I need qualifications for data entry work?

Usually not. GCSEs in English and maths help, and a typing or Excel course can back up your skills, but employers mostly look at accuracy and reliability.

How do I show accuracy on a CV?

Give a figure if you have one, such as typing speed or how rarely your work needed correcting, and explain how you check it, for example against the original document.

Can I apply if I have not done data entry before?

Yes. Use examples from any job where you handled figures or records carefully, and mention your typing speed and Excel basics.

Data entry clerk CV example

A strong data entry clerk CV shows accuracy first, with figures such as typing speed and the number of records you handle in a day. It should also name the systems you use, your Excel level and how you keep information correct and private.

Isla Fraser

Data entry clerk

isla@example.com

07700 900162

Manchester

Profile

Accurate data entry clerk with experience keying customer and invoice records into databases and spreadsheets in a busy records office. Types at around 55 words per minute and checks every entry against the source document before saving. Careful with personal data and steady with repetitive tasks.

Experience

Data Entry Clerk

a records management company

Keyed around 400 customer records a day into the company database, typing at about 55 words per minute

Checked entries against the original documents and corrected mistakes before saving

Scanned, indexed and filed paper records so they could be found quickly

Updated Excel spreadsheets of orders and deliveries, using filters and simple formulas

Handled personal data in line with GDPR and company confidentiality rules

Office Junior

an insurance broker

Entered new policy details and client changes into the broker's system

Sorted, scanned and logged incoming post each morning

Filed paperwork and answered basic queries from colleagues

Helped produce weekly Excel reports for the office manager

Key skills

Fast, accurate typing · Database entry · Microsoft Excel (filters and simple formulas) · Checking and cleaning data · Scanning and filing documents · GDPR and confidentiality · Attention to detail · Working to deadlines · Clear written communication

Example · fictional candidate · Swiss design · Use this design

Tips for a data entry clerk CV

Give your typing speed and, if you know it, your accuracy, because these are the numbers employers ask about
Say how much you enter in a day or week, so the reader can picture the workload
Name the systems and software you have used, such as Excel, Access or a customer database, and be honest about your level
Show how you check your work, for example against the source documents or with a second read-through
Mention GDPR awareness and careful handling of confidential information
Add an online typing test score if you have one, as a simple and checkable proof

Applying with a cover letter? See our data entry clerk cover letter example.