As someone passionate about flexible work options, I can't help but share one of the most lucrative opportunities- transcription jobs.
It's remarkable how the digital age has transformed traditional job markets.
It has opened up new and exciting opportunities for those of us who crave independence and the chance to work from home or anywhere with an internet connection.
To be clear, online transcription isn't just about typing fast; it's about converting spoken words into written text accurately.
This can be challenging, but it's also incredibly rewarding.
You could be transcribing interviews for a journalist, converting podcasts into written content, or assisting in legal proceedings by transcribing court records.
The possibilities are vast, and the demand for transcription services continues to grow, thanks to the booming content creation industry.
In this article, I'll walk you through the different online transcription jobs.
I'll share some of the best platforms to kickstart your transcription career, and I'll provide insights on what it takes to succeed in this field.
Let’s jump in.
What is a transcription job?
A transcription job involves converting spoken language into written text.
It's the process of listening to an audio or video recording and transcribing the spoken words into transcripts.
The transcripts produced are valuable in their respective industries.
For example, journalists use interview transcripts for articles. In the legal field, transcriptionists turn court proceedings and depositions into written records.
Medical transcriptionists convert doctors' verbal notes into patient records.
Transcription is also essential for creating subtitles or captions in videos, making content accessible to hearing-impaired or non-native speakers.
Some transcription jobs may require you to be familiar with specialized terminology or jargon, depending on the field.
For example, if you're transcribing a medical conference, you need to be well-versed in medical terminology. The same applies to technical or legal transcription.
What do you need to become a good transcriptionist?
Becoming a proficient transcriptionist requires a specific skill set and dedication.
You need excellent listening skills to recognize various accents, tones, and nuances in speech.
For instance, if you're transcribing an interview with a British scientist or an American rapper, being able to identify and distinguish the accents and speech patterns is essential.
Attention to detail is another crucial attribute. The smallest errors in transcription can lead to misunderstandings or miscommunications.
For example, if you're transcribing a medical dictation, mistaking "milligrams" for "micrograms" could have serious consequences.
You also need patience as transcription can be a time-consuming task. It may require you to replay sections of audio several times to ensure accuracy.
Fast typing speed with accuracy is also necessary. The faster you can type while maintaining accuracy, the more efficient you'll be as a transcriptionist.
You can use tools and software to help with this. A good foot pedal can help you to control audio playback, which can significantly improve your typing speed.
Good grammar and punctuation are also a key requirement. You should be able to effectively punctuate and structure the transcripts without errors.
Using the wrong punctuation can significantly change the meaning of a sentence, which can be problematic, especially in specialized fields such as medicine where precision is paramount.
It's also beneficial to have access to quality transcription software, tools, and a comfortable workspace.
Transcription tools may include noise-cancellation headphones, a foot pedal, and a computer.
Quality software can also help in speeding up the transcription process and ensuring accuracy.
How much do online transcribers make?
The earnings of an online transcriber can vary depending on the level of experience, specialization, speed, and transcription job platform.
Transcribers are paid on a per-audio-minute or per-audio-hour basis, but some may also work at an hourly rate.
The rates can range from $0.50 per audio minute to $3 per audio minute or more.
A beginner transcriber with little to no experience might start at the lower end of the scale, earning around $0.50 to $1 per audio minute.
On the other hand, a more experienced transcriber can command higher rates earning $2 or more per audio minute.
The difficulty of the audio or video can also impact earnings. Transcribing highly technical or specialized content often pays more than transcribing general conversational content.
For the job platform, some companies pay better than others. This will be clear when going through the different online transcription jobs.
Speed and accuracy also determine income. Transcribers who can transcribe audio quickly and with high accuracy will be able to complete more work in less time increasing earnings.
According to ZipRecruiter, transcriptionists earn an average of $36,248 per year.
Can You Make a Living Transcribing?
While the income potential can vary, it is possible to earn a sustainable income through transcription work.
Transcription work is a flexible, work-from-home job that has gained popularity in recent years.
To experience the flexibility and income potential as a transcriber, you need to work on your skills and experience.
As you become more proficient, you become a more attractive candidate for higher-paying transcription jobs.
You also need to look into your choice of transcription projects and where you get transcription jobs.
General transcription, which includes interviews, podcasts, and other non-specialized content, may offer lower pay compared to specialized transcription work.
Specialized fields often require additional training and certifications, but the higher pay can make it worth the effort.
Seek out jobs from higher-paying transcription companies or look for private clients to ensure sustainable and recurring income.
Are online transcription jobs worth it?
Online transcription jobs can be worth it but they are not for everyone. It largely depends on individual circumstances and preferences.
Your skills need to match the transcription jobs. If this is not the case, you might end up frustrated with little to show.
When you can handle online transcription jobs, you’ll get to enjoy flexibility.
You can work from the comfort of your home, choose when you work, and often have the freedom to select the projects you want to take on.
This flexibility is appealing especially if you need to juggle work with other responsibilities.
The income potential is another attractive aspect that makes these jobs worth it. The more you transcribe, the more you can earn.
On the flip side, some downsides may make a transcription job feel not worth it.
Transcribing can be tedious and mentally demanding.
Listening to hours of audio, deciphering accents, and dealing with poor audio quality can be frustrating.
It requires a lot of focus and patience, and the pay may not always seem proportional to the effort expended.
Competition for work is also a challenge. Many people are drawn to online transcription due to its flexibility and accessibility.
The job availability can be limited, and the rates may be driven down by the sheer number of transcribers.
To stand out and secure better-paying jobs, you'll need to build a strong reputation and consistently deliver high-quality work.
Before deciding on their worth, consider the pros and cons, and try a few projects to see if it's a good fit for you.
Benefits of becoming an online transcriptionist
Becoming a transcriptionist has several notable benefits. These are some of the reasons why pursuing this path can be advantageous.
They include:
Flexible work schedule
One of the most appealing aspects of being an online transcriptionist is the flexibility it offers.
You have the freedom to choose when and where you work. Whether you're a night owl or an early bird, you can align your transcription tasks with your preferred schedule.
You can work part-time during your studies or as a full-time job, depending on your lifestyle and needs.
Decent income potential
While the earnings of an online transcriptionist can vary, there's potential for a decent income.
Rates depend on your expertise and the complexity of the material you're transcribing.
Refining your skills and specializing in a niche with a high demand can result in higher pay rates.
Low entry barrier
Unlike many other professions, becoming a transcriptionist doesn't require extensive formal education or expensive certifications.
It's a field that you can enter without formal training. It only requires good listening and typing skills, which you can improve over time.
You also only need basic equipment, such as a computer with transcription software and headphones.
These tools are also relatively affordable. The initial investment pays off as you secure work and gain experience.
Skill development
Transcription work hones your listening skills and attention to detail.
You'll become proficient at understanding different accents and jargon, which can be intellectually stimulating.
These skills can prove useful in other aspects of your life.
Increase in knowledge
Transcriptionists encounter a wide range of topics in their work.
This exposure allows you to continually learn and expand your knowledge in various fields.
You might transcribe interviews with experts in different industries, providing you with valuable insights.
Learning from the content being transcribed keeps you engaged and stimulated as work stops feeling like a task you need to do.
Diverse work opportunities
The demand for transcription services is across various industries, including medical, legal, academic, and entertainment.
This diversity means you can choose to specialize in a field that aligns with your interests and expertise.
For example, if you have a background in medicine, you can transcribe medical reports to create healthcare documents.
Also, every transcription project is different. You could be transcribing interviews, proceedings, podcasts, or handwritten notes.
This variety keeps the job interesting and ensures that you're constantly exposed to new challenges.
Remote work opportunities
Transcriptionists are in high demand globally, making it easier to find opportunities with companies worldwide.
You're not limited to job opportunities in your local area. This can lead to an expanded client base and more remote work.
Career growth
With experience, you can explore different roles within the transcription industry.
You could move up to become a transcription editor, manager, or quality control specialist.
It is also possible to start your transcription service by managing a team of transcribers.
Work-Life Balance
The ability to set your schedule and work remotely contributes to an improved work-life balance.
You can allocate time for family, personal interests, and other commitments without the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 job.
Networking opportunities
With transcription work, you collaborate with professionals from various industries, such as journalists, researchers, and content creators.
Building relationships with these clients can open doors to new opportunities and expand your professional network.
Drawbacks of becoming a transcriptionist
Some drawbacks of being an online transcriptionist include:
Low Pay especially when you're just starting. You might spend hours transcribing a lengthy audio file and get paid just a few dollars for it.
Transcription work isn't always consistent making it tough to budget your income.
Long working hours as transcribing can be time-consuming. It might take several hours to transcribe a short piece of content.
Many transcription jobs come with tight deadlines. This means you may have to work quickly and under pressure to meet client expectations.
Unlike traditional jobs, most online transcription positions don't come with benefits like health insurance, paid time off, or retirement plans.
Transcribing can be monotonous and repetitive. You might find yourself transcribing the same type of content over and over again.
The job is often solitary, and you might miss out on the social interaction you'd get in a traditional office setting.
Background noise in audio recordings can be a real challenge. It might require you to replay sections and take longer to work on a project.
Sitting for long hours in front of a computer and constantly listening to audio can lead to health issues like back pain, hearing problems, and eye strain. You'll need to be mindful and take breaks.
Practice transcription tests
Practice transcription tests come in handy if you’re looking to sharpen your transcription skills.
They also help companies seeking to evaluate potential transcriptionists as candidates to transcribe audio content effectively.
The tests involve listening to an audio recording and accurately converting the spoken words into written text.
Good examples include:
GoTranscript – It is a transcription company that offers free transcription and editing sample tests. It provides details of your mistakes once you are done.
Express Scribe Practice Transcription Files – Express Scribe is a transcription software. The practice files are in medical and legal transcription.
Scribie Practice Files – Scribie is a transcription job company. They provide practice files in numerous accents and difficulty levels.
TCI Transcription Practice Test – TCI is an institute that offers transcription training. They give an accuracy assessment tool to assess your proficiency.
Listen and Write – This is a site with a collection of audio files on various topics. You create a free account and start practicing.
50 Legitimate Remote Transcription Jobs and Websites
Rev
Rev is a well-known platform for transcription work.
They offer a variety of transcription services, such as audio and video transcription, captioning, and translation.
Rev has a straightforward application process – you need to take a short grammar and transcription test. Once approved, you can start claiming jobs.
They pay per audio minute transcribed. Rates range from $0.30 to $1.10 per minute, depending on the difficulty of the audio and your skill level.
Captioning and translation jobs may pay differently.
To work for Rev, you must have a good command of English, strong typing skills, and excellent grammar.
TranscribeMe
TranscribeMe is another popular choice for transcription work.
They specialize in short audio and video files, making it ideal for those who prefer smaller, more manageable tasks. To join, you need to complete their transcription test.
TranscribeMe pays around $15 to $22 per audio hour, which translates to roughly $0.25 to $0.35 per audio minute. They pay through PayPal.
Fluency in English, a good grasp of grammar, and attention to detail are essential to work with them. You'll need to use their proprietary transcription software for work.
CastingWords
CastingWords is known for its flexibility. They have various types of transcription tasks, from general transcription to more specialized work.
The application process includes an initial test, followed by a series of tasks.
Their pay rate varies depending on the complexity of the job, ranging from $0.08 to $1.20 per audio minute.
The requirements include good listening skills, accuracy in transcription, and an understanding of the guidelines they provide.
GMR Transcription
GMR Transcription offers a wide range of transcription services, including legal, medical, academic, and business transcription.
Pay rates differ depending on the type of transcription you do, but they often pay higher than some other platforms.
Medical and legal transcription earns you higher rates.
To work with GMR transcription, you need proficiency in English, as well as specialized knowledge of medical or legal transcription.
They only hire US-based applicants.
GoTranscript
GoTranscript offers transcription and translation services.
They offer a mix of different projects, including business and academic transcription. The application process involves a transcription test.
GoTranscript pays up to $0.60 per audio or video minute, depending on the difficulty of the task.
Their payment methods are via PayPal or Payoneer.
Like most transcription job companies, they check for proficiency in English, good typing speed, and attention to detail.
They accept applicants globally and encourage non-native English speakers to apply.
TigerFish Transcribing
TigerFish is a transcription company that specializes in transcribing interviews, focus groups, and other audio content.
They've been around for quite a while and are known for their commitment to accuracy. The pay at TigerFish varies, ranging from $8 to $15 per hour of audio transcribed.
They pay by the line, and the average rate is around $0.005 per word.
Requirements for working with TigerFish include being a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
You also need a strong command of the English language, good listening skills, and a computer with internet access.
You'll also need to pass a transcription test to get started.
Daily Transcription
Daily Transcription is another reputable transcription company.
They work on a variety of audio and video content, including interviews, documentaries, and more.
They pay around $0.75 to $0.85 per audio minute for entry-level transcriptionists. If you're more experienced, you can earn up to $1.10 per audio minute.
The requirements for Daily Transcription include a strong command of English, the ability to meet deadlines, and a computer with high-speed internet.
You'll also need to pass a transcription test and submit a resume to be considered.
SpeakWrite
SpeakWrite is a transcription and dictation service that primarily serves legal, law enforcement, and government agencies.
The pay rate at SpeakWrite is competitive, with earnings averaging around $300 to $450 per month for part-time work.
Requirements include good typing skills, a minimum typing speed of 60 words per minute, and a foot pedal for audio control.
You'll also need to complete a comprehensive training program to ensure accuracy in legal transcriptions.
The company only accepts legal residents of the US or Canada.
3Play Media
3Play Media focuses on providing transcription and captioning services for online media.
Their pay rate is between $10 and $30 per audio hour, depending on the complexity of the work.
They require transcriptionists to have a strong grasp of English grammar and punctuation, as well as access to a computer and high-speed internet.
You'll also need to pass their transcription test to get work. Their application process takes about 15 minutes.
Scribie
Scribie is a platform for transcribing audio files.
Transcriptionists earn $5 to $20 per audio hour via a verified PayPal account.
Scribie accepts transcriptionists from around the world, but you need a good comprehension of English and listening ability.
They offer flexibility in choosing the files you want to transcribe and provide automated transcripts making it suitable for part-time work.
Quicktate
Quicktate is a company that offers transcription of conference calls, voicemail messages, letters, legal files, memos, medical files, and other audio.
They are open for business 24 hours a day giving you the chance to select the hours you’d like to work.
The company pays around $0.0025 per word for general transcription and $0.0050 per word for medical transcription.
They have several requirements for individuals looking to be their contractors.
You need to be accurate in spelling and punctuation and know how to follow instructions. They also require you to take a test to ensure you understand their requirements.
Once you pass the quiz and typing test, you’ll need to pay $20 for running your background check.
Crowdsurf
Crowdsurf offers transcription and captioning services.
While working at Crowdsurf, you are paid per task. You can earn around $0.03 to $0.30 per media minute.
Requirements include attention to detail, great listening skills, the ability to follow guidelines, and a reliable internet connection.
You join CrowdSurf via Work Market. The registration process is clearly explained on the platform.
Crowdsurf is a good option if you’re looking for quick and easy transcription tasks.
Transcript Divas
Transcript Divas is a transcription service that specializes in providing high-quality transcriptions for various clients.
They pride themselves on their commitment to accuracy and reliability.
The pay at Transcript Divas is project-based and can range from $0.75 to $1.85 per audio minute, depending on the complexity of the content.
Requirements include excellent language skills, attention to detail, and the ability to meet deadlines.
You'll need to pass a transcription test and submit a resume for consideration.
Babble Type
Babble Type is a company that offers transcription, translation, and content editing services.
They pay competitive rates, averaging around $0.45 to $0.5 per audio minute.
To work with Babble Type, you should have a strong command of English, good research skills, and the ability to maintain client confidentiality.
Babbletype only accepts applicants who are residents of the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand.
You'll need to pass a transcription test to get started.
Speechpad
Speechpad is an online platform that provides transcription and captioning services.
They pay per audio minute, with rates ranging from $0.25 for entry-level to $1.00 or more, for jobs that require more experience.
To work with Speechpad, you should be fluent in English, have solid grammar and punctuation, have a typing speed of 40 words per minute, and be detail-oriented.
Upwork
Upwork is a freelancing platform where you can find a wide range of transcription jobs from various clients.
The pay on Upwork can vary significantly depending on the client and project.
Some clients pay by the hour or per project, while others pay per audio minute/hour.
The client requirements also vary based on the project. However, you'll need to showcase expertise as a transcriber by having a portfolio.
It all comes down to your ability to market yourself to potential clients.
Ditto Transcripts
Ditto Transcripts is a transcription company that seeks to offer fast, accurate, and affordable services.
The company offers medical, law enforcement, legal, financial, and general transcription services.
The pay rate varies depending on the type of transcription job you are working on. Some jobs are paid per line while others per minute.
Legal, academic, financial, general business and law enforcement are paid between $0.08 to $1.10 per minute.
Medical is paid between $0.07 to $0.10 per line.
To apply, you should be a resident of the United States but not residing in California, New Jersey, or Massachusetts.
They give an initiation test that you’ll be required to pass with at least a 95% score.
Focus Forward
Focus Forward is a company that offers transcription, qualitative recruitment, product tests, quantitative research, and translation services.
For transcription, the pay starts at $0.40 per audio minute.
The application process is straightforward. You’ll need to download the transcription instructions, audio file, and program.
Next, work on the transcription test, fill out the application form, and upload your test. You’ll get a response 48 hours after submission.
eScribers
eScribers is a transcription service that offers remote transcription jobs.
They mainly focus on legal transcription and court reporting jobs.
eScribers works with both newbies and experienced transcribers and reporters.
They pay weekly at a rate of between $21 to $24 per audio hour. The company also offers bonus opportunities throughout the year that are categorized into levels called Circles.
To join their team, you'll need to have a good command of English, excellent listening skills, and be familiar with transcription software.
Pioneer Transcription
Pioneer Transcription is known for its variety of transcription services, including academic, legal, business, documentary, and general transcription.
They pay by the page instead of by the audio minute with the specific rates listed in the ScribeManager queue where jobs are located.
They require applicants to have an ear for transcription, excellent grammar and punctuation skills, a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and more.
Pioneer Transcription prefers to test applicants with a foot pedal for transcription work. Experience is also often preferred, but beginners can also apply.
They also don’t hire individuals from California due to the AB-5 law.
Way with Words
Way with Words offers transcription services for a wide range of industries, from medical to academic.
As a transcriptionist, you can expect to earn between $0.45 and $1.73 per audio minute based on project turnaround time.
To work for them, you should have a strong understanding of grammar and punctuation, a keen ear for different accents, and proficiency in English.
They offer an assessment to gauge the skills of applicants against their requirements.
Cambridge Transcriptions
Cambridge Transcriptions offers legal, government, zoom, interview, conference, focus group transcription, and more.
The pay rate is competitive, ranging from $20 to $30 per audio hour. They seek transcriptionists with legal or academic experience.
Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy are essential qualities they look for.
Audio Transcription Center
Audio Transcription Center transcribes oral history interviews, focus groups, tech webinars, financial forecasts, commencement addresses, TV shows, other interviews, etc.
Pay rates range from $15 to $18 per audio hour with slight pay differences depending on client projects.
To work with them, they require a minimum typing speed of 80 words per minute, and a strong grasp of the rules of punctuation, grammar, and spelling.
They also prefer individuals with a wide range of interests or educational experiences.
Audio Transcription Center also only works with residents of the United States of America who are legally able to work as 1099 contractors.
SyncScript
SyncScript offers transcription and translation services.
The pay rate is between $0.53 to $0.63 per audio minute. They require a typing speed of at least 70 words per minute with 98% accuracy.
You also take a seven-minute transcription test audio and a grammar test.
Once you pass and join the team, you should be available to transcribe a minimum of three audio hours per week.
Ubiqus
Ubiqus is a global language service provider that offers translation, transcription, subtitling, and interpretation services.
They specialize in the fields of finance, medical, public sector, and lifestyle.
The company hires transcriptionists to convert audio and video content into text from the United States and Canada.
They pay per word at 0.00588 for legal and 0.00695 for medical transcription.
To work with Ubiquis, you'll need good typing skills, excellent command of English, and the ability to meet deadlines.
Having a specialized background in fields like law or medicine can be a plus.
Allegis Transcription
Allegis Transcription is another provider offering reliable transcription services.
They offer their services to small and large businesses and have been in business since 1996.
The pay rate here is somewhat competitive, ranging from $15 to $25 per hour.
To join Allegis as a transcriptionist, you should have excellent grammar, spelling, and punctuation skills, and be reliable to meet deadlines.
They also require you to have a high-speed internet connection, a headset, a foot pedal, and an up-to-date Microsoft operating system.
You also need to commit time to an initial development program.
Deposition Services Inc.
Deposition Services Inc. specializes in legal transcription services, specifically deposition and court reporting.
The pay can range between $20 to $30 per hour. For this job, you need to have excellent grammar and punctuation skills.
Knowledge of legal terminology and procedures is a must, as you'll be transcribing legal proceedings, which require precision and accuracy.
TranscriptionServices.com
TranscriptionServices.com is a versatile platform that offers transcription services to a wide range of clients.
They offer academic, business, entertainment, legal, and medical transcription services.
The company accepts transcriptionists from any country as long as you have English transcription experience.
They offer competitive pay per audio hour.
To get hired, you'll need to apply by sending an email with the specified required information. You’ll also need to attach your resume.
Ubiqus on Demand (Verbal Ink)
Ubiqus on Demand, formerly known as Verbal Ink, offers transcription, translation, and audiovisual services.
The pay rates are not fixed and earnings depend on the audio files you transcribe.
Requirements include strong English grammar, time management skills, and the ability to differentiate the voices of several speakers.
They also encourage the use of specialist software and tools such as headphones and foot pedal.
Transcription Hub
Transcription Hub is a transcription service company that offers accurate audio and video transcription services.
They offer medical, legal, education, meeting, and insurance transcription. The pay rate averages around $0.75 per audio minute.
To work for Transcription Hub, you'll need to be evaluated before being onboarded to the Live transcription marketplace.
Based on the evaluation, you are rated as either Gold, Silver, or Bronze.
The registration process is straightforward, requiring you to fill in specific details to create your account.
Appen Scribe
Appen Scribe is a branch of Appen that focuses on transcription services.
Appen offers microtasks to individuals all over the world who are looking for work-from-home opportunities.
Appen Scribe pays don’t have a fixed rate of payment. They pay transcribers based on the number of words & sentences, and audio length.
The project dictates the pay. On average, some audio files can pay 0.005 per word or more.
I’ll admit, the pay is not much and I would advise prioritizing other platforms for more frequent and lucrative jobs.
To work for Appen Scribe, you need to be at least 18 years old and have exceptional research, organizational, and leadership skills.
They also require a minimum typing speed of 40 words per minute and proficiency in various word processing programs.
You should also have the ability to transcribe different types of audio such as interviews, meetings, and more.
They often need multilingual transcriptionists as well.
Transcription for Everyone
Transcription for Everyone is a transcription company that specializes in high-level English legal, Torah, and general transcription services.
They also offer caption and translation services.
Pay rates here vary and are determined by your typing speed. An average range is between $10 to $25 per hour of your time.
To become a transcriptionist for them, you'll need strong computer knowledge, grammar and research skills, the ability to learn independently, drive, and motivation.
You apply to work for Transcription for Anyone by sending your CV and cover letter explaining why you would make a good addition to the team.
VIQ Solutions
VIQ Solutions offers AI-powered transcription and recording solutions.
They offer services such as legal, insurance, criminal justice, government, media, and corporate finance transcription.
They pay hourly with rates falling between $5 to $20 per hour.
To work with VIQ Solutions, you should pass a thorough background check. They also have a process of application with an assessment that you should pass.
Bam Transcription
Bam Transcription is a well-known platform for transcription work.
It's a company that serves the entertainment industry and has been in business for more than 25 years.
They pay per audio minute which is about $0.75 with a potential to increase.
Requirements for Bam Transcription are relatively straightforward. You need a high level of accuracy, great research, organizational skills, and more.
They also prefer a US resident able to speak more than one language.
Landmark Transcription
Landmark Transcription is another great platform if you’re seeking transcription work.
They transcribe meetings and focus groups and also offer translation services.
The company works with Australian transcribers. To join the team as a contractor, you need to work on a transcription test and answer their questionnaire.
Accutran Global
Accutran Global is a company that provides transcription and related services to clients all over the world.
This transcription company pays per word or audio minute. The rates start from $0.004 per word to $0.40 per audio minute.
They also pay bonuses for specific projects and exceptional accuracy.
To get transcription jobs, you'll need a computer with Windows 10, stable internet access, and an uninterrupted power supply.
You apply by sending your resume/CV to the provided email.
Hollywood Transcriptions
Hollywood Transcriptions specializes in transcribing audio content related to the entertainment, academic, corporate, and legal industries.
Transcribers working with the company report that they earn between $400 to $500 or more per month.
The requirements to work with Hollywood Transcriptions include a typing speed of at least 65wpm, fluent in English, a reliable computer with an internet connection, and a foot pedal.
Knowledge of entertainment industry terminology can be a plus.
To apply, you’re required to send your resume to the email jobs@hollywoodtranscriptions.com.
Transcription Panda
Transcription Panda is a platform that offers audio and video transcription services to universities, media companies, researchers, individuals, and more.
They hire transcriptionists to convert audio files into written text.
Unfortunately, when writing this, they are not accepting applicants, but you can always keep checking for an opportunity.
1-888-TypeItUp
1-888-TypeItUp is another audio transcription company that provides services to various industries.
They don’t require experience for you to work with them. You only need to pass an entrance exam.
The pay at 1-888-TypeItUp is $30 to $180 per audio hour.
Terescription
Terescription is known for offering professional transcription services to the entertainment, education, and media industry.
They pay about $.07 per line for a one-person interview and more for multiple speakers or projects that have a short turnaround time (TAT).
Neal R. Gross
Neal R. Gross provides transcription services for clients in the United States and worldwide.
They also offer court reporting, summary writing, and government services.
They have several job openings and only hiring US citizens for the transcription role.
Athreon
Athreon is a speech-to-text solutions company that serves business, finance, legal, cybersecurity, healthcare, law enforcement, insurance, and more.
It offers remote transcription jobs to individuals and pays $0.03 per line.
Etypist
Etypist is a website that helps people convert their audio or video to text. They provide legal, medical, and business transcription services.
The company hires remote legal transcriptionists who have a desktop or laptop, a professional transcription pedal, a high-speed internet connection, and a smartphone.
To begin work, you need to complete an application and then you’ll be provided with a skills assessment test that is followed by a phone interview.
Net Transcripts
Net Transcripts specializes in transcription services for law enforcement and criminal justice.
The pay rate at Net Transcripts averages between $5 and $12 per hour according to Glassdoor and Indeed.
Voxtab
Voxtab is an audio-to-text solutions company that offers transcription, subtitling, voice-over, closed captioning, and other services.
As a transcriber for the company, you can earn an average of $23 to $25 per audio hour.
They require you to fill out a form with relevant details to be considered for work opportunities.
Transcriptions ‘N Translations
Transcriptions 'N Translations offers transcription, translation, closed captioning, and subtitling services.
To work with them, you'll need to fill out a form to submit your application.
Alice Darling Secretarial Services
Alice Darling Secretarial Services is a transcription company that prides itself on turning sound into words.
They require their transcriptionists to have a typing speed of at least 75 words per minute, excellent English language and grammar, and the ability to keep a schedule.
To explore opportunities with Alice Darling, they request you to email your CV and cover letter.
CyberDicatate
CyberDictate is another transcription service provider. They offer legal and standard transcription work.
They hire experienced transcribers in the United States. You can find more detailed requirements for employment here.
Although they don’t disclose their pay, it seems they offer half a cent per word.
FlexJobs
FlexJobs is a job search platform that connects freelancers with remote transcription opportunities.
They offer a wide range of remote job opportunities, not limited to transcription.
The pay and requirements for a transcription job can vary depending on the job listings available.
A Quo Co
A Quo Co is a transcription company that focuses on court transcription services.
The company requires an American Association of Electronic Reporters and Transcribers (AAERT) certification to work as a transcriber.
Their pay is not clear on the website but with a specialized field, it is likely to offer high rates.
How to get the best transcription jobs
To get transcription jobs, it's important to approach it strategically. Here are some tips to follow:
Develop your skills
Most of the online transcription jobs have specific requirements. However, there are certain skills they require that cut across the board.
Before applying for jobs, refine these skills to ensure you pass the first stage of application. Constantly work on your typing, listening, and research skills.
You can do this by practicing to transcribe various types of audio, like interviews, podcasts, or videos, to familiarize yourself with different accents and content.
Equipment and Software
Invest in good quality equipment that will help with transcription work.
All jobs require you to have a reliable computer, internet connection, and headphones. Some also state foot pedals as a requirement.
You'll also need transcription software, like Express Scribe or InqScribe, which can help make your job more efficient.
Build a portfolio
You need to create a portfolio with samples of your work.
You can transcribe publicly available content, use the detailed transcription practice tests, or volunteer to transcribe for non-profit organizations.
Having a portfolio demonstrates your skills and reliability to potential clients. Also, ensure that your resume/CV demonstrates skills and experience in transcription.
Register on transcription platforms
From the list, you have more than 50 transcription job platforms.
Ensure that you sign up on multiple reputable transcription platforms like Rev, TranscribeMe, or GoTranscript.
Go through their requirements and guidelines carefully to help you pass the application process.
These platforms offer a steady flow of transcription work, especially for beginners. Start with entry-level jobs to build your reputation.
Set realistic rates
Whether you are working with a transcription company or direct client on job platforms, set competitive but realistic rates.
For a beginner, the rates can be low. This is evident from the review of the different platforms. However, low-paying jobs can be a stepping stone to gaining experience.
Manage your expectations, and weigh your skills and experience to be able to set reasonable rates for your services.
Network
To find work, you need to network.
Join transcription forums and communities. These can be valuable sources for job leads, advice, and support from experienced transcribers.
Market yourself
Do not only rely on transcription job companies.
Consider creating a personal website or using social media to showcase your skills and attract clients outside of transcription platforms.
Time management
Effectively manage your time between working on transcription jobs and applying for new jobs.
A mistake that many online workers make is not seeking out new clients because they have work.
Constantly seeking to work, learn, and look for new opportunities helps you to stand out in the marketplace.
Meeting your deadlines without compromising on quality is important but ensure that you don’t depend on specific clients for work.
Client communication
Maintain open and clear communication with clients, even on the transcription job platforms.
If you have questions or need clarification about the job requirements, don't hesitate to ask. It's better to seek clarity than to make errors.
Feedback and reviews
Seek to obtain feedback from existing clients. Encourage satisfied clients to leave positive reviews and feedback on your profile.
Good reviews boost your credibility and help you attract more clients.
Equipment required for a transcriber
Being a transcriber requires you to have the right equipment to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and comfort during your work.
Invest in quality tools, and you'll be well-equipped to transcribe a variety of content effectively.
Some of these tools include:
Computer or Laptop
The most fundamental piece of equipment is a reliable computer or laptop.
It should have sufficient processing power and memory to handle transcription software and manage large audio or video files.
Keyboard and mouse
A comfortable and responsive keyboard and mouse are important for quick and accurate typing. Consider a mechanical keyboard or a wireless mouse.
Transcription software
Transcription software helps to control your audio or video files.
They help to slow down or speed up audio, control playback, and insert time stamps.
There are popular options such as Express Scribe which are compatible with both Windows and macOS.
Word processing software
To type up transcripts, you'll need word processing software like Microsoft Word, or Google Docs.
The software helps you to format the transcripts so that they are presentable.
Headphones or headset
Good quality headphones or a headset are vital for clear and accurate transcription.
Noise-canceling headphones can help you focus on the audio and minimize external distractions.
Foot pedal
A foot pedal is a handy tool that allows you to control audio playback with your foot, leaving your hands free for typing.
Several transcription job companies require you to have one.
High-speed internet connection
A fast and stable internet connection is necessary for uploading and downloading files.
It also comes in handy when researching and communicating with clients.
Backup and storage solutions
To prevent data loss, it's recommended to invest in a reliable backup system in place.
This can be an external hard drive or cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive.
Time management tools
Time is a key factor as a transcriptionist.
Make use of time management tools like calendars or task management apps to keep track of deadlines and stay organized.
Tools like Google Calendar or Trello can be incredibly helpful.
How to succeed as a transcriptionist
Succeeding as a transcriptionist requires certain skills, practices, and dedication. Here's a guide on how to excel in this profession:
Develop your listening skills
An important part of transcription is being able to accurately hear and understand spoken words.
You need to train your ears to catch nuances, accents, and even background noises.
This affects how quickly and accurately you can work on a given audio or video file.
Excellent listening skills will allow you to transcribe files faster, increasing your ability to make more money.
It also enables you to work on different types of transcription jobs since you can make out different accents irrespective of the difficulty level.
Invest in quality equipment
It is not enough to have the basic equipment to become a successful transcriber.
The quality of your equipment affects the quality of your work and how long it will take to get tasks handled.
For example, there is a big difference between using basic headphones and noise-cancellation-type headphones.
Noise-cancellation headphones will allow you to focus on the audio or video file and make out the voices faster.
It will reduce the need to constantly play back saving you a lot of time. This greatly increases your speed, and accuracy thus positively affecting your earnings.
Practice touch typing
Speed is crucial in transcription. The faster you type, the more work you can take on and the more you can earn.
Touch typing skills will save you time and reduce the chance of errors. For instance, you might aim to type at a speed of 80-100 words per minute.
Understand formatting styles
Different transcription job platforms have different formatting styles and guidelines.
Familiarize yourself with popular ones, especially those that have better and recurring job opportunities.
You can always refer to the guidelines before starting a transcription job to avoid confusion when dealing with multiple sites.
Research industry jargon
If you specialize in a particular field like medical or legal transcription, it's essential to understand the industry-specific terminology.
This knowledge ensures you accurately transcribe the content. It will also help you minimize the time it takes with research when transcribing.
Proofreading and editing
After transcribing, you need to review and edit your work for accuracy and grammar.
You should deliver well-formatted and polished transcripts to your clients. Tools like Grammarly can be handy for this.
Time management
Transcription can be time-consuming. Learn to manage your time effectively.
Set clear work hours and allocate time for breaks to avoid burnout.
For instance, you might break your work into segments, like transcribing 20 minutes of audio, followed by a 5-minute break.
Ensure that you balance your workload with other responsibilities that you may have.
Communication skills
Good communication with clients and people in the industry is essential.
Ensure you understand client expectations and guidelines before you start a project.
If you have questions or face challenges, don't hesitate to ask for clarification. Communicate early if you’re not able to meet a given deadline.
Clear communication can prevent misunderstandings and loss of opportunities.
Networking
Network with businesses, individuals, and professionals in the transcription space.
Building relationships with people can open up numerous opportunities.
Network in both physical and online forums or groups where transcriptionists discuss tips and job leads.
Building a network can lead to referrals and collaborations. You can also learn a new way of doing things that can help improve your work.
Stay informed
Technology and language are constantly evolving.
Stay updated with the latest transcription software, tools, and any changes in language use.
For example, with the development of AI, many transcription jobs have embraced its use in transcription.
Being aware of this can help you adapt to the new realities to ensure your income is not affected.
Practice confidentiality
Many transcription jobs involve sensitive information.
Ensure that you respect client confidentiality agreements and handle data securely. Clients trust you to protect their information.
Financial management
As a freelancer, you're responsible for managing your finances.
Keep track of your earnings and expenses, and set aside taxes. Make sure to pay for your tools and equipment, save and invest to secure your future.
It is important to remember that online transcription jobs can be seasonal, you need to set aside funds to deal with low-income months.
Tools like QuickBooks or Excel can help with financial management.
Adaptability
Be ready to adapt to new challenges. Transcription work has its fair share.
Sometimes, the audio quality may be poor, or the speakers might mumble.
Develop strategies to deal with these issues that often come up.
For example, you can opt to use specialized software to improve poor audio quality, which can set you apart as a skilled transcriptionist.
Self-motivation
Lastly, transcription can be isolating. You need to motivate yourself to handle jobs whether they are hard or simple.
Always seek out new opportunities for work and keep learning to improve your craft.
Set personal goals, celebrate your successes, and continually challenge yourself to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How fast do you have to type to be a transcriptionist?
To be a transcriptionist, a good starting point is around 40-70 words per minute (WPM).
The faster you can type, the more work you can get done in a short time. Some experienced transcriptionists can reach speeds of 90-100 WPM or even more.
But remember, accuracy is just as important as speed in transcription. You'll need to balance both to deliver high-quality work.
How long does it take you to transcribe one hour of audio?
The time it takes to transcribe one hour of audio can vary widely depending on your typing speed, the quality of the audio, and the complexity of the content.
As a rough estimate, it might take you 4-6 hours to transcribe one hour of clear, straightforward audio. For beginners, it may take longer.
If the audio quality is poor, or if it involves multiple speakers and technical jargon, it could take longer, requiring 10+ hours.
What’s the difference between audio hours and working per hour?
Audio hours refer to the total length of audio content. It's a way to quantify how much audio material needs to be processed or transcribed.
Imagine you have a 2-hour long interview recording. In this case, you have 2 audio hours of content.
Audio hours are often used in transcription services, where the transcriptionist is paid based on the total duration of the audio they transcribe.
If they charge $30 per audio hour, you would pay $60 for that 2-hour interview.
Working per hour means you're compensated based on the time you spend working.
It's a common way to calculate wages or salaries, whether you're in a full-time job, part-time job, or as a freelancer.
Let's say you work as a freelance writer, and you charge $20 per hour for your services. If you spend 5 hours writing an article, you'd earn $100 for your work.
Conclusion
The diversity of transcription jobs makes it a dynamic and ever-growing field.
Throughout this article, we've explored some of the best platforms to jumpstart your transcription career.
The transcription jobs have various specializations, requirements, and compensation.
As you embark on your transcription journey, remember that success in this field comes with dedication, practice, and a commitment to delivering quality work.
With the right mindset and the resources provided here, you'll be well on your way to building a rewarding career in online transcription.