Wondering if transcription is a good job?
Transcription is a good job to pursue due to its reasonable pay and flexible hours. While a formal qualification isn’t a necessary to become a transcriber, it is important that you are able to type quickly and efficiently and have a strong grasp of the English language.
Keep reading to find out more about becoming a transcriber, including expected pay and which skillsets are required!
What is The Average Salary of a Transcriptionist?
Wondering how much you can expect to earn as a transcriber?
A beginner transcriber can expect to make an average of $10 per hour, whereas an experienced transcriber can earn up to $22 per hour. That said, your earnings also depend on your typing speed, listening skills, and how many hours you are willing to put in.
If you want to earn as much cash per hour as possible, then you’ll want to stay ahead of the rest by ensuring that your skillset is updated!
How Do I Qualify To Become a Transcriber?
While there are no formal qualifications required to become a transcriber, there are criteria you need to meet in order to succeed in this profession, so let’s take a closer look.
In order to qualify as a successful transcriber you need to have the following skills:
- Fast typing speed (at least 40 to 60 words per minute)
- Excellent grasp of the English language (including grammar, punctuation, and spelling)
- Attention to detail
- Good listener
- Time management
- Discretion (everything you transcribe needs to be kept confidential)
That said, it’s still a good idea to complete a transcription course if you want to optimise your typing skills and acquire better-paying jobs.
As a transcriber you are being paid to ensure that the audio you listen to is transcribed accurately and efficiently, meaning there is little room for error. Punctuation, grammar, and spelling mistakes are not accepted, so if you make them frequently you’re unlikely to secure a steady stream of reliable work.
What Equipment Do I Need To Become a Transcriber?
If you want to become a successful transcriber there is certain equipment you’ll need to have to make it happen!
Here’s the equipment you’ll need to become a transcriber:
- A computer
- Microsoft Word
- Reliable internet connection
- High-quality headphones
- Foot pedal
- Keyboard
Without these items you’ll find it difficult to complete the tasks!
Top 5 Best Transcription Courses
If you’re serious about becoming a transcriber, then you’re probably wondering which are the best courses to choose! Let’s take a closer look.
Rev is a great platform for new and experienced transcriptionists to work from home and they are always looking for new transcribers!
The platform is easy to use and payment is made on a weekly basis via PayPal. Work is available around the clock 24/7, and you also have access to hundreds of jobs meaning you can enjoy a steady income.
Scribie is among the top companies hiring transcribers and is known for hiring both beginner and experienced transcriptionists all over the world!
Scribie pays a relative amount per audio hour at roughly $5 – $25 per audio hour, however, they are a great place for beginners to learn and gain more experience. The audio files to be transcribed are short, averaging 6 minutes, including telephone calls, speeches, and interviews.
GoTranscript is a top transcription company for beginners. They don’t require experience and accept transcriptionists from anywhere in the world.
Go Transcript pays up to $45 per audio hour via PayPal or if you have a Payoneer account, you can use your Payoneer account too.
TranscribeMe is a great company with a compact selection of transcription jobs catered for beginners.
Catering for beginners, means, you don’t need to have experience. You are required to have a good command of the English language accompanied by an above-average typing speed.
TranscribeMe pays beginner transcribers a salary of $15 per audio hour, through their exam process you can access exams over time that will allow you to earn more money. Payments are made weekly via PayPal or once you reach $10.
TypeWhizz is a well-established transcription company that pays you $20+ per hour working from home as a professional transcriber.
That said, in order to become a professional transcriber, you will be required to pass their assessment. They’ll provide all the necessary tools and training materials so that you’re adequately prepared for the transcription exam. You’ll be earning cash before you know it!
They also offer a jobs board with hundreds of job opportunities meaning you’re guaranteed a constant stream of jobs.
Interested in taking the quiz to see if you have what it takes? Take it here!
Final Thoughts
Transcription is an excellent field to pursue and earn some extra money. That said, you’ll want to make sure that you have the right skillset and complete the relevant training to secure a regular income stream.
With this in mind, TypeWhizz offer the most comprehensive program with the largest job board provided exclusively for their students, making this our number one pick!
