Transcription involves listening to an audio file and turning the words into a text file or transcript. The files are generally in WAV or MP3 format. Transcriptionists are needed in many fields, including medicine and law. The work can often be done at home, which makes it a convenient career choice for women with young children.
Instructions
1. Decide on your area of expertise. Once you make that decision, study the terminology for that field. Medical terminology for transcription in particular can be studied at adult schools, community colleges or online.
2. Complete a certification program. You can also take these courses online or at a school. Medical transcription courses take 6 to 9 months to complete; these courses include medical terminology, so you won't have to take it separately.
3. Prepare a resume. List the courses you have completed, any certifications you have and your computer skills.
4. Apply for a job as a transcriptionist. Career Builder, Accutran Global and Escriptionist sometimes post jobs for beginners.
5. Purchase an audio player with automatic pause and replay. Computer software like Express Scribe allows you to listen to files on your computer and pause and rewind using a foot pedal. These tools will make your transcription job a lot easier. Transcriptionists are paid by the page, so being fast while still maintaining accuracy is important.
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