Transcription is the process of listening to an audio or video file and typing what is said into a typewritten document. Many businesses are realizing the benefits they could earn from transcribing their meetings, podcasts, sermons, seminars, business calls, lectures, and more. And since the demand for general transcription services is growing, the world needs more transcriptionists. If you’re looking for a way to earn some extra income or even build a full-time career, here’s everything you need to know about how to become a transcriptionist.
Why Become a Transcriptionist?
Working from home has become increasingly desirable in today’s busy world. Who wants to commute when they can just pad over to their desk with their coffee and begin work? The flexibility of doing transcription work from home is unparalleled. Not many businesses allow you to set your own hours according to your needs as freely as transcription does.
Want to take a yoga class in the middle of the day? No problem! Need to pick up a sick child from school? You don’t even need to explain it to anyone. Just pause your audio file, save your work, grab your keys and go. As long as you make your deadlines, anything goes. You can work in the middle of the night or not until the late afternoon.
Transcription can even be done as a side job for extra money. And your paycheck depends on you! If you hone your skills and get more accurate and productive at typing, the sky is the limit. So now that you’re convinced, let’s talk about how to get started.
What Supplies Do I Need to Start?
The essentials you will need for transcription include a computer, a reliable Internet connection, word-processing software (like Microsoft Word), headphones (or at least working computer speakers), and a quiet place to work. Some people like to sit at a desk, but it isn’t absolutely necessary.
A foot pedal is not strictly needed, but it is highly recommended. You can get a used one on eBay if you have a small budget. A foot pedal will allow you to pause, rewind, and play your audio or video file, so you can continue to use your hands to type uninterrupted.
Dual monitors would also be helpful. You can use one monitor to display the document you’re transcribing and use the other screen to keep a search engine up and waiting. This will help you quickly search any unfamiliar terms without having to minimize your transcript and reopen it. Every second counts!
Good typing skills are great to have as a transcriptionist, but you can develop these as you go. This is also where your patience comes in. It’s easy and common for new transcriptionists to get frustrated that they can’t go as fast as they would like. Set a reasonable WPM (words per minute) goal, celebrate when you reach your goal, and then set another reachable goal!
How Do I Find Jobs?
A great resource to start with is The Ultimate Directory of General Transcription Companies. It has over 100 companies listed in it that hire work-from-home transcriptionists. You can also join transcription Facebook groups that post about transcription jobs when they’re available.
Consider a Training Course
The quickest and smartest way to begin your new career as a transcriptionist is to enroll in a general transcription training course, like GT Boot Camp. This fully remote, online course is the ultimate way to prepare yourself for a career as a general transcriptionist. It’s affordable and easy to enroll—and you can continue with your current job while training on your own time for your new career!
When you enroll in GT Boot Camp, you’ll get detailed instruction on how to transcribe audio along with valuable tips on everything from how much to charge and how to create an invoice to using email marketing, finding the best jobs, and more! Tutorials for tech setup are included as well as programs that allow you to practice your skills. Enrollment also includes the foot pedal and software you’ll need to complete your work quickly and accurately. GT Boot Camp offers a no-fluff approach that helps you start your career on your best footing. Best of luck as you take your first steps towards a new career!
