I’m super excited to share with you some of the best transcription jobs out there, especially for beginners like us. Guess what? Some of these jobs can pay up to $60 per hour!
I know it sounds amazing, right? I’ll walk you through where to find these opportunities, the skills you’ll need, and how to get your foot in the door. If you’re ready to turn your good listening skills into some serious cash and are looking for a flexible job that lets you work from anywhere, this is for you.
Stick with me, and let’s dive into discovering these top transcription jobs that are not only beginner-friendly but also great for our bank accounts!
Transcription Company Pay Rate Payment Method Job Availability Countries Accepted Requirements
GMR Transcription $0.7 – $1.25 per audio min Paypal or Bank Transfer High USA and Canada Only Foot Pedal
GoTranscript $15 – $22 per audio hour Paypal (Anytime) Medium Worldwide No
Casting Words $0.85 – $1.00 per audio min Paypal (Weekly) High Worldwide No
TranscribeMe $15 – $22 per audio hour Paypal (Anytime) Medium Worldwide No
CrowdSurf $0.03 – $0.20 per audio min Paypal, WM Visa, Bank Medium Worldwide No
Daily Transcription $0.75 – $0.85 per audio min Check (Weekly) High USA and Canada At least 50 wpm (wpm)
Rev $0.30 – $1.10 per audio min Paypal (Weekly) High Worldwide No
Verbal Ink (Ubiqus) $0.85 per audio min Paypal, Bank Transfer Medium USA Only No
SpeechPad $0.3 – $1.00 per audio min Paypal (Tuesdays, Fridays) Medium Worldwide No
Scribie $10 per audio hour Paypal Medium Worldwide No
3Play Media $10 – $30 per working hour Direct deposit, Check (Monthly) Low USA Only At least 75 wpm (wpm)
Audio Transcription Center $60 – $150 per audio hour Check (Weekly) Medium Worldwide At least 75 wpm (wpm)
Tigerfish $0.005 per word Check, Direct Deposit (Twice a month) Medium USA Only No
Transcript Divas $0.84 – $2.98 per audio min Paypal, Bank Transfer (Monthly) Medium US or UK No
Focus Forward Transcription $0.40 per audio min Check, Direct Deposit (Twice a month) Medium USA Only No
Who is a transcriptionist?
A transcriptionist is a professional who specializes in converting spoken language from audio or video recordings into written text. This role requires a keen ear and exceptional attention to detail.
Transcriptionists listen to the recorded content and meticulously type out every spoken word, ensuring accuracy in terms of language, grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Their goal is to create a final transcript that is free from errors and faithfully represents the spoken content.
Transcriptionists are often tasked with transcribing a wide range of materials, including but not limited to podcasts, interviews, business meetings, academic lectures, and more.
Some transcription companies may even require the transcriptionist to capture every verbal hesitation, such as “uh” and “um,” to provide a complete and faithful representation of the spoken dialogue.
15 Best Online Transcription Jobs for Beginners in 2023
1. GMR Transcription
GMR Transcription is a US-based company offering transcription work at a pay rate of $0.7 to $1.25 per audio minute. They accept applicants from the USA and Canada, providing monthly payments via Paypal or bank transfer. While they maintain high job availability, they have strict guidelines, so it’s crucial to read their instructions carefully.
Pros
- Positive reviews from transcriptionists.
- Fair pay rates.
- Suitable for beginners with a supportive work environment.
Cons
- Challenging qualification process.
- Complex application procedure.
- Limited to applicants from the USA and Canada.
GoTranscript
If you’re just starting out in transcription, GoTranscript is an excellent choice. They have no strict requirements and accept transcriptionists from all around the world. Even beginners can join, making it a great place to begin your transcription journey.
The application process is straightforward: you’ll need to take a test exam, and upon acceptance, you can start working with them.
Pros
Ideal for newcomers to transcription.
Simple and easy application process.
Cons
Pay rates are on the lower side.
They have strict policies in place.
Casting Words
Casting Words is a well-regarded transcription company that welcomes both seasoned and novice transcriptionists. They uphold high standards in providing top-quality transcription services to their clients, which means they have strict criteria for selecting transcriptionists.
To join Casting Words, you can apply through their website and must pass their test exam to begin working with them.
Pros
Abundant job opportunities.
Reliable support team.
Offers a valuable learning experience.
Cons
May not be the best choice for beginners due to a potentially complex setup.
TranscribeMe
TranscribeMe offers transcription work with pay rates ranging from $15 to $22 per audio hour, available worldwide, and no strict requirements. Ideal for beginners, they require around 70% accuracy rather than 95% or 100%. Training videos are provided upon application, followed by an exam to assess accuracy.
Pros
Positive rating (over 4 out of 5).
Strong support team.
Suitable for beginners with a learning-focused approach.
Cons
Somewhat complex setup.
Relatively lower hourly wage.
CrowdSurf
CrowdSurf is a transcription platform that welcomes worldwide applicants, making it accessible to beginners.
They offer various payment methods, including PayPal, WM Visa card, and bank transfer. While they have a straightforward sign-up process and good customer service, there are some drawbacks to consider.
Pros
Easy entry for newcomers.
Excellent customer support.
Diverse work options available.
Cons
Limited job opportunities.
Low pay rates, with earnings ranging from $0.03 to $0.20 per audio minute.
Daily Transcription
If you’re a skilled transcriptionist looking for consistent work, Daily Transcription might be a good choice. They offer decent pay rates ranging from $0.75 to $0.85 per audio minute and have a high job availability.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Daily Transcription mainly hires in the USA and Canada, and they have strict requirements, including a minimum typing speed of 50 words per minute. Additionally, they don’t use PayPal for payments, which can be inconvenient for some.
Pros
High job availability.
Competitive pay rates for experienced transcriptionists.
Cons
Limited to USA and Canada applicants.
Stringent requirements.
Payment is only available through checks.
Reported poor customer service.
Rev
Rev is a well-known transcription platform available worldwide. They offer a wide range of pay rates, varying from $0.30 to $1.10 per audio minute, making it a flexible choice for transcriptionists.
To join Rev, you’ll need to pass their test exam, but they don’t have strict requirements beyond that. Rev is known for its job availability, and you have the freedom to select projects that suit you.
Pros
Suitable for beginners with a flexible schedule.
Decent pay, especially if you’re proficient in multiple languages.
Cons
Work can be inconsistent.
Some users report poor customer support experiences.
Verbal Ink
Verbal Ink, now known as Ubiqus On Demand, offers transcription work with a fair pay rate of $0.85 per audio minute. They cater to academic institutions and various organizations, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in their services. However, they have specific limitations.
Pros
Efficient, reliable, and accurate transcription services.
Positive customer ratings.
Excellent customer service.
Cons
Limited job opportunities, as they only accept transcriptionists from the USA.
Geographic restrictions may hinder opportunities for international applicants.
SpeechPad
SpeechPad, based in California, is a global transcription platform welcoming transcriptionists from around the world. They provide an excellent work-from-home environment, making it beginner-friendly.
With a stellar reputation and top-notch service to clients, they also offer appealing bonuses for transcriptionists.
To get started, you’ll need to pass their test exam with high accuracy. While working with SpeechPad, you can expect to earn an average of $200 to $400 as a side hustle.
For transcriptionists seeking a reputable platform with a global reach and frequent payment options, SpeechPad could be a suitable choice, especially if you value positive customer feedback and bonuses.
Pros
Outstanding customer reviews with ratings over 4.2.
Access to bonus opportunities.
Payment through PayPal twice a week.
Cons
Job opportunities for beginners may be somewhat limited.
Pay rates, especially for newcomers, may not be as competitive as some other platforms.
Scribie
Scribie is a well-known US-based transcription company known for delivering top-notch transcription services.
If you’re starting as a transcriptionist, you can expect to earn around $150 to $300 per month on average. To get started, you’ll need to ensure your transcriptions are accurate enough to pass their test exam.
While Scribie offers bonuses and promotions, it’s important to note that they have relatively low pay rates compared to some other transcription opportunities. Additionally, their ratings aren’t as high as some competitors.
Pros
Offers bonuses and promotions.
Provides good customer service.
Cons
Lower pay rates.
Less favorable ratings compared to some other transcription companies.
3Play Media
3Play Media offers transcription opportunities for both English and Spanish transcriptionists, with the potential to earn between $10 and $30 per working hour. However, there are specific requirements and limitations to consider.
Pros
Provides interesting transcription content.
Offers clear guidelines for beginners.
Offers excellent customer service.
Cons
Limited job opportunities, as they only accept applicants from the USA.
Enforces strict rules and standards for transcriptionists, which may not be suitable for everyone.
Audio Transcription Center
Audio Transcription Center stands as one of the most respected transcription companies in the United States, trusted by esteemed institutions like Harvard and MIT. They provide exceptional support for freelancers, ensuring a strong working relationship.
The highlight here is their excellent pay rates, starting at $60 per audio hour for English and $150 per audio hour for foreign languages.
Unlike many companies, they don’t require a test exam, but they do expect a typing speed of at least 75 words per minute with 98% accuracy, which you’ll need to demonstrate through a screenshot or other means via email.
If you’re an experienced transcriptionist looking for well-compensated work with a reputable company, Audio Transcription Center could be an excellent choice, especially with its straightforward application process.
Pros
Offers high pay rates, particularly appealing for transcriptionists.
Enjoys a strong reputation with positive ratings.
User-friendly interface and reliable customer support.
Cons
Job opportunities may be somewhat limited for beginners.
Tigerfish
Tigerfish offers transcription work with a pay rate of at least $0.005 per word, equivalent to around $10 per hour. They provide weekly payments via PayPal. However, there are some specific conditions to consider.
Pros
Easy and convenient application process.
Offers suitable training, making it beginner-friendly.
Provides excellent customer support.
Cons
Lack of transparency in certain aspects.
Requires an upfront cost of $200 for their transcription software, which might not be suitable for everyone.
Transcript Divas
Transcript Divas, with nearly eight years in the transcription industry, is committed to delivering precise transcription services. They stand out for their impressive pay rates, offering beginners an earning potential of $0.84 to $2.98 per audio minute.
Payments are made directly to your PayPal account.
However, it’s important to note that their application process can be somewhat intricate. After passing their test exam, you’ll need to go through an interview process. Once selected, you’ll be required to transcribe at least two audio hours per week.
For those seeking a transcription opportunity with competitive pay, Transcript Divas could be worth considering, although it’s important to be prepared for the application process and weekly transcription requirements.
Pros
Offers high pay rates, especially appealing to transcriptionists.
Positive customer feedback and strong customer support.
Cons
Job availability may be limited, and the company might not be as well-known in the industry.
Focus Forward Transcription
Focus Forward Transcription, also known as FF Transcription, offers transcription work primarily for residents of the USA. They have been in the transcription industry for 18 years and enjoy a good reputation.
If you’re just starting out, you can expect to earn approximately $24 per audio hour, while experienced transcriptionists can make up to $60 per audio hour.
To get started, you’ll need to pass their test exam, but the application process is straightforward. It’s worth noting that you’ll need to transcribe at least 4 audio hours per week to maintain consistent work with them.
If you’re based in the USA and are looking for a well-established transcription company with a good reputation, FF Transcription could be a suitable option, although job availability may be somewhat limited for newcomers.
Pros
Positive customer reviews with ratings over 4.0.
Hires both English and Spanish language transcriptionists.
Cons
Limited job opportunities for beginners.
Payment methods do not include PayPal, which may be less convenient for some.
Tips to help you secure high-paying transcription jobs
The following are some tips from personal experience that will help you secure high-paying transcription jobs:
1. Develop Strong Transcription Skills
First and foremost, invest time in honing your transcription skills. Practice regularly, work on your typing speed, and strive for accuracy. The better your skills, the more you can command higher pay rates.
Build a Quality Portfolio
Create a portfolio showcasing your transcription work. Include samples of your transcriptions with different accents, industries, and difficulty levels. This can demonstrate your versatility and competence to potential employers.
Choose the Right Specialization
Consider specializing in a specific niche or industry, such as legal, medical, or technical transcription. Specialized fields often offer higher pay due to the specialized knowledge required.
Invest in Quality Equipment
To ensure clear audio and efficient transcription, invest in good-quality headphones, a foot pedal for audio control, and transcription software. High-quality equipment can significantly improve your productivity.
Stay Informed
Stay updated on industry trends, terminologies, and any changes in transcription guidelines. This knowledge will make you more valuable to clients in specialized fields.
Certification and Training
Consider taking transcription courses or obtaining relevant certifications. These credentials can boost your credibility and help you command higher rates.
Network and Join Forums
Join transcription forums and networks to connect with other professionals in the field. Networking can lead to job referrals and opportunities for high-paying gigs.
Apply to Reputable Companies
Research and identify reputable transcription companies known for fair pay rates and good working conditions. Apply to multiple such companies to increase your chances of landing high-paying projects.
Ace the Application Test
Most transcription companies require applicants to pass a test. Pay close attention to guidelines, format, and accuracy when taking these tests. A strong performance can lead to better pay rates.
Negotiate Your Rate
Don’t be afraid to negotiate your pay rate, especially if you have experience and a strong portfolio. Many clients are willing to pay more for quality work.
Consistency and Reliability
Demonstrate your reliability by meeting deadlines consistently. Clients appreciate transcriptionists who can deliver high-quality work on time.
Seek Long-Term Clients
Building relationships with long-term clients can lead to steady work and higher pay over time. Clients who trust your work are often willing to offer better compensation.
Freelance Platforms
Explore freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. These platforms often have high-paying transcription jobs, and you can set your rates.
Improve Your Language Skills
If you’re proficient in multiple languages, leverage this skill. Bilingual transcriptionists are in demand and can command higher rates for their services.
Market Yourself
Create a professional online presence through a personal website or social media profiles. Highlight your skills and experience to attract potential clients.
Stay Organized
Efficiently managing your workload and maintaining accurate records can help you take on more jobs and increase your income.
Skills to become successful as a transcriber
As a transcriber, you’ll need a specific set of skills to excel in your role and provide high-quality transcription services. Here are the key skills you should have as a transcriber:
1. Excellent Listening Skills
The foundation of transcription is your ability to listen attentively to audio recordings. You must be able to discern and understand various accents, speech patterns, and tones.
Strong Typing Skills
Transcribing requires fast and accurate typing. Aim for a typing speed of at least 50 to 75 words per minute (wpm) or more to efficiently transcribe audio content.
Attention to Detail
Precision is crucial in transcription. You must pay close attention to every word, punctuation mark, and formatting requirement to ensure accurate transcripts.
Grammar and Language Proficiency
A solid grasp of grammar, punctuation, and language conventions is essential. Your transcripts should read fluently and be free of errors.
Research Skills
Sometimes, you may encounter unfamiliar terms or topics in your transcription work. Effective research skills will help you accurately transcribe and contextualize such content.
Time Management
Meeting deadlines is a vital aspect of transcription. Efficient time management ensures you can complete assignments promptly and maintain a consistent workflow.
Familiarity with Transcription Software
Learn to use transcription software and tools effectively. These tools can help you control playback speed, insert timestamps, and improve productivity.
Tech Savviness
Comfort with technology is a plus. You may need to troubleshoot audio issues, manage files, and work with various digital formats.
Concentration and Patience
Transcription can be mentally demanding and require long periods of concentration. Patience is essential, especially when dealing with challenging audio quality or heavy accents.
Adaptability
Be ready to adapt to different industries and topics. Transcription work can cover a wide range of subjects, so a willingness to learn and adapt is beneficial.
Must Have Tools for Transcriptionists?
The transcriptionists tools can significantly improve your efficiency and accuracy as a transcriptionist, making your work more manageable and productive. It’s essential to invest in quality tools to enhance your transcription experience and deliver high-quality transcripts to your clients or employers.
Here are the essential tools that every transcriptionist should have:
1. PC (Desktop or Laptop)
Your computer is the primary tool for transcription. It allows you to run transcription software and applications and provides a platform for typing and editing transcripts.
Microsoft Word
Microsoft Word is a versatile word processing program that allows you to create, format, edit, and save your transcripts. It’s a commonly used tool for transcriptionists.
Transcription Software
Transcription software is specifically designed to assist transcriptionists in their work. It can help control audio playback, insert timestamps, and streamline the transcription process. Some popular transcription software options include Express Scribe, The FTW Transcriptor, and Inqscribe.
Headset
A high-quality headset is essential for clear audio playback and accurate transcription. Look for a headset that offers noise cancellation features to minimize background noise interference. Recommended headsets include the ECS OHUSB WordSlinger Deluxe Overhead USB Transcription Headset and the Spectra USB Transcription Headset.
Foot Pedal
A foot pedal is a handy tool that allows you to control audio playback with your feet, leaving your hands free for typing. It enables functions like pausing, fast forwarding, and rewinding audio.
Make sure the foot pedal you choose is compatible with your preferred transcription software and your computer’s operating system. Recommended foot pedals include the Infinity IN-USB-1 USB Computer Transcription Foot Pedal and the Digital USB Foot Pedal for Express Scribe Pro Software.
Conclusion
In conclusion, I’ve shared some valuable insights about what it means to be a transcriptionist. It’s a job that requires a sharp ear, a knack for detail, and a commitment to delivering accurate and error-free transcripts.
As someone who has been in the transcription field, I can tell you that it’s a rewarding and flexible profession.
I’ve also shared some of the best high-paying transcriptionist jobs that are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re transcribing interviews, podcasts, or important business meetings, the work of a transcriptionist helps make spoken content accessible and searchable.
So, if you’re considering a career in transcription, know that your skills are in demand, and with practice, you can become an expert in turning spoken words into well-crafted written documents. Happy transcribing