Requirements for data entry and typing speed can vary significantly from role to role according to the volume and accuracy requirements for the job. Speeds between alphanumeric and numeric data entry can also vary dramatically, as they are both functions performed on different parts of the keyboard.

Generally, an alphanumeric, being letters and numbers, and numeric, being just numbers, data entry speed of approximately 10,000 keystrokes per hour (ksph) is considered good for a Data Entry Operator role, where high volumes of data need to be entered into a database quickly and in a set and repetitive formula. This kind of data entry also requires high accuracy levels, mostly anything above 98%. However, some data entry roles may not require a high speed element, though will still require high accuracy. In some cases, a call centre or helpdesk role may be combined with a data entry role, where you will need to be able to listen and interact with a customer on the telephone and also key information quickly into a database.

Mostly, a data entry speed of 7000 ksph is high enough for many data entry roles, but as with any task you only get better and quicker as you practice!

A good typing speed is generally considered to be between 40-50 words per minute (wpm), again with a high accuracy level. However, for many secretarial roles such as dictatyping or transcribing, or for many PA/EA roles, a much higher speed may be required, which can be from 70-80 wpm.

As a Temporary Staff Member (TSM) you are paid an hourly salary rate. You do not get paid for time that you don't work, this means that you do not get sick pay, holiday pay or public holiday pay, this will, however, be calculated into your hourly rate. Rates for each assignment will vary. Your Consultant will inform you of the hourly rate before you accept each assignment.

You must remember that your hourly rate is highly confidential and it is a condition of your employment that you discuss it only with your Consultant or a Spectrum payroll representative

With references to terms such as PS146, DFP and DFS in both job descriptions and advertisements for positions on job boards, it can get a bit confusing for jobseekers when they are making their start in the Financial Services industry. For many roles, the above terms can be stated requirements for that particular job and it can seem that success in your financial services career is almost impossible to attain! Here are some general definitions and tips to help you understand some of the key terms in the industry and how you can achieve success in your chosen career path:

PS146 translates to Policy Statement 146, which is the minimum standard required by a person who provides financial services or products advice, be it of a general or personal nature. It is necessary to go through a formal education process in order to become PS146 compliant. Some of the roles that may require this kind of qualification include:
Financial Planners
Financial Advisors
Para Planners
Some Customer Service Representatives
Some Call Centre Operators
Trainee Advisors
All employees at an "Advisor" level should undertake training at the Tier I or Tier II level.

Some courses, such as the Diploma of Financial Services (Financial Planning), or DFP/DFS, include the requirement of becoming PS146 compliant. There are four mandatory units within the DFP course across Insurance, Investments and Superannuation which relate to the PS146.

Many of Spectrum's top tier and industry leading clients can provide such things as study assistance as part of their offer to employees which may cover PS146 and Financial Planning qualifications, as well as other Superannuation or Financial Services industry related courses.

Spectrum's Superannuation, Investments and Insurance recruitment team have over 24 years combined industry experience, and have been through many of these trials before! They can provide you with expert advice on how to begin, streamline and further your Financial Services Career or qualifications.

No longer than 6 months. Your circumstances will change, and we are also obliged to dispense with records after this period.

Of course both are the best and most logical way to see what positions are available. But a great many jobs are not advertised, and because we spend so much attention to know our Clients needs, many jobs are filled without ever being listed.

Many people enjoy the flexibility of seeking a temp role. It they are returning from overseas, wanting to work for a short period, or like variety, it is a very good way to get the best from being employed but balancing lifestyle commitments. Often Temporary and contract appointments are offered a full time position, so you get to know your new Company, the job and your workmates before you commit to a full time position. Also, your employer knows you so much better before he makes the offer.

That would be very unlikely, as the reason they have asked experts to fill the vacant position is they do not have the skills or resources to process your application.

Anyone who goes to the trouble of registering with us is treated as a customer, someone who needs a help to find a job. That's our business, and we need you! We will always respond to your application – however if you have received an email from us stating that at this time we have been unable to assist you in your search and providing no further direction, we may not be able to contact you by phone.

For any enquiries, please contact us by phone to discuss on 03 9602 6700.

Yes – we will always do our best to assist bright hardworking people to find work. We have many short and medium term assignments suitable for backpackers and travellers who hold the right visa types.

In some instances it may be, however for many roles it is not possible to disclose certain details prior to the interview stage due to privacy requirements.

If in doubt, we are always happy to field your questions so please contact the advertised Recruitment Advisor for more information on 03 9602 6700.