Transcription Jobs: How to Get a Job as a Transcriptionist

Is it Hard to Get a Transcription Job?

Entering the transcription industry might seem daunting for beginners. However, with the growth of online transcription jobs and services, opportunities for both experienced and entry-level transcriptionists are plentiful. Many transcription companies, like TranscribeMe and Rev, offer jobs for beginners, making it feasible for typists to start a freelance transcription career even with minimal transcription experience.

How Do I Become a Transcriptionist with No Experience?

1. Research: Understand the types of transcription available: general transcription, legal transcription, and medical transcription.
2. Skills Development: Enhance your typing skills and speed. A good transcriptionist typically has a typing speed of 60-80 words per minute.
3. Training: Enroll in a transcription course. Platforms like Transcribe Anywhere offer comprehensive training.
4. Certification: While not mandatory, some sectors like medical transcription require certification.
5. Start Small: Look for transcription jobs for beginners on platforms like Scribie or GoTranscript.

How Do I Start a Transcription Job?

1. Equip Yourself: Ensure you have a high-speed internet connection, transcription software such as Express Scribe, and optionally, a foot pedal for ease.
2. Apply: Register on platforms offering online transcription jobs. You’ll likely need to take a transcription test.
3. Set Up Payments: Most companies, like CrowdSurf and GoTranscript, make payments via PayPal.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Typing Speed: As mentioned, speed is crucial.
• English Proficiency: Mastery of the English language is key.
• Listening Skills: This ensures accuracy in transcribing audio files.
• Software: Familiarity with word processing tools like Microsoft Word.

What is the Transcriptionist’s Job?

A transcriptionist’s primary role is to transcribe audio recordings, be it podcasts, depositions, law enforcement audio, or focus groups, into written format. Accuracy, time management, and proofreading are essential skills.

Benefits of Transcription:

1. Flexibility: Most transcriptionist jobs allow you to work from home and set your own schedule.
2. Variety: Transcribe diverse content from medical dictation to legal depositions.
3. Income: Depending on expertise and niche, transcription work can offer a lucrative pay rate.

Best Transcription Company to Work for: Many consider Rev as a top transcription company, thanks to its beginner-friendly platform, competitive pay rates, and constant flow of jobs. However, different transcriptionists might have preferences based on their experience and specialization.

Difficulties of Being a Transcriptionist:

• Repetitive Nature: It can become monotonous.
• Audio Quality: Poor recordings can challenge even the most experienced transcriptionists.
• Tight Deadlines: Some projects require quick turnarounds.

Top 8 Transcription Software:

1. Express Scribe: Offers foot pedal support and speed control.
2. Transcribe: Helpful for those who prefer dictation.
3. Rev: Features an intuitive platform and offers freelance transcriptionist jobs.
4. GoTranscript: User-friendly with a steady flow of jobs.
5. Scribie: Ideal for beginners, with an easy-to-use interface.
6. TranscribeMe: Known for diverse transcription jobs from medical to general.
7. CrowdSurf: Great for short tasks and quick payouts.
8. InqScribe: Offers customizable shortcuts and is compatible with Word.

Remember, becoming a transcriptionist requires focus, dedication, and continuous learning. As the demand for transcription services grows, so do the opportunities for those willing to invest their time and energy. Happy transcribing!