The internet has made it possible for businesses to save on costs. To do this they have to outsource a lot of the work which was done in the office before. This has created an opportunity for work-at-home moms, housewives, students, retirees, freelancers and the unemployed to earn an income.
One of the online jobs is data entry which can be done from any country in the world. Data entry is the process of transcribing data into a specified format such as a computer database. It broadly includes typists, word processors and electronic data processors to name just a few. While these jobs require no skills or prior experience jobs like medical transcriptionists or proofreading need training and more advanced skills. You will need a computer and internet access, basic computer skills and an ability to follow simple instructions.
Make a distinction between companies that require data entry workers and the middlemen. While the former pays you after you complete each assignment, the latter provides a comprehensive tutorial course, tools, resources and email support for members during the training.
Many people have earned a decent income from doing data entry work. Do not be misled by those who make exaggerated claims about earning hundreds of dollars a day. If you are expecting to get rich overnight this job is not for you.
In view of the number of scams online, you are advised to do some research on the companies.
Here are 6 tips to help you check whether a website is legitimate:
1. Any decent website would have a contact page with a company address and contact numbers. Just send a short email message expressing your interest in doing the online jobs. You should receive a response to your inquiries.
2. Go to online forums and websites and read the comments about the companies. Visiting forums is a great way to find out what ordinary people think about the website and its products or services. This will help you to make an informed choice.
3. Never pay for jobs assigned. It is reasonable for a site that acts as a middleman to ask for a one-time registration fee to cover the costs of training and tools provided. Check to see if a money-back guarantee or a 14 or 30 day free trial are offered.
4. Look for the seal on the website of some watchdog bodies on the internet like Scam-X. Click on these seals to check the legitimacy of the claims and get information about the site.
5. Look up the domain on the DomainTools.com (previously called WhoIs) Website. Here you will find the registration details. A company that has been around for only a few months is more likely to be a scam site though this may not always be the case. You may use the age of domain as a guide to determine whether the site is legitimate or not.
6. Data entry freelancers should check on the Website to see if any training is provided. A good training program should be comprehensive and provide both text and video tutorials, proper guidance and email support if a member encounters any difficulties.
If you have done your homework you should feel more confident to start your training. And if you still harbour any doubts about the website then just rely on your gut instincts. Any offer that is too good to be true probably is.
