Transcriptionists perform research as needed.
A transcriptionist listens to an audio recording of speech and transfers it to typewritten form. Transcriptionists need excellent listening skills, fast typing skills and good command of the language. This includes expertise in grammar, spelling and punctuation. Transcriptionists need to be able to transcribe what is heard accurately and quickly.
Types
There are three main types of transcriptionists. General transcriptionists are also known as corporate transcriptionists, and work in corporate settings assisting business professionals with preparation of sales letters and business correspondence. Medical transcriptionists convert information recorded by doctors and other health professionals into medical reports, correspondence and medical records. Legal transcriptionists listen to recordings by attorneys and type legal documents and correspondence.
Education
Of the three types of transcriptionists, only medical transcriptionists require formal training. Training programs for medical transcriptionists are available as one year certificate or two year associate's degree programs. Students learn anatomy and physiology, medical documentation, English grammar and punctuation. Formal training of legal transcriptionists is not usually required, but training programs are sometimes available in vocational schools and community colleges.
Job Description
Transcriptionists listen to recordings on a headset. Recordings may be made on digital or analog dictating equipment or transferred via the Internet. Transcriptionists usually use special equipment such as a foot pedal in order to start, pause or speed up the recording. They may need to replay a certain segment of a recording in order to decipher unclear words. Text is keyed into a personal computer or word processor and is reviewed and edited as necessary for grammar and clarity.
Special Skills
Transcriptionists need above average typing and computer skills. Those who specialize in a particular area may need special skills. For example, legal transcriptionists need to have a thorough grasp of legal terminology. Medical transcriptionists need to have an understanding of medical terminology and procedures, including pharmacology, anatomy and physiology. Transcriptionists sometimes use research skills to understand unfamiliar terms and accurately record information in context. Employers may require specialized document formatting.
Considerations
Becoming a transcriptionist requires complete accuracy and attention to detail. Good listening skills are a must, along with the ability to understand various accents. Transcription skills are in high demand, and learning to be a transcriptionist can lead to telecommuting work from a home-based office. Many companies outsource transcription tasks to independent contractors. For those who wish to work from home, consistently delivering transcribed documents on time and without error can lead to many more work opportunities.
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