Transcriptionist

Working Schedule

Transcriptionists can work either full-time or part-time, with the flexibility of remote work. They may work for transcription services, legal firms, healthcare providers, or as independent contractors.

Typical Duties

• Listen to recorded audio and convert it into written text by typing it out and using software to assist, as needed.
• Review drafts of transcriptions done by speech recognition programs.
• Provide real-time transcription for live events or meetings when required.
• Translate abbreviations or complex terminology, as needed.
• Offer transcription services in multiple languages, if bilingual.
• Identify speakers and ensure proper attribution in multi-speaker recordings.
• Research unfamiliar terms to ensure correct transcription.
• Format transcriptions according to requested guidelines.
• Proofread and edit transcripts for accuracy and clarity.
• Maintain well-organized records. Enter reports into record systems, if needed.
• Ensure the confidentiality and security of sensitive information. Label material accordingly.
• Share finalized materials with appropriate stakeholders, as directed.

Additional Responsibilities

• Develop expertise in specialized fields (e.g., medical, legal, or financial transcription).
• Train junior transcriptionists and oversee their work.
• Stay updated with transcription industry trends and software.
• Enhance skills through continuous learning and certifications.
• Participate in industry-specific professional networks or associations.

Soft Skills

• Accuracy
• Adaptability
• Attention to detail
• Communication
• Concentration
• Confidentiality
• Detail-oriented
• Efficiency
• Focus
• Integrity
• Listening
• Organization
• Patience
• Professionalism
• Punctuality
• Responsibility
• Time management

Technical Skills

• Proficiency with transcription software and tools (Express Scribe, oTranscribe, Descript)
• Familiarity with industry terminology
• Typing speed and accuracy such as 75+ words per minute with high accuracy
• Editing and proofreading skills
• Word processing
• Audio enhancement techniques including noise reduction and volume adjustment
• File formats such as MP3, WAV, DOCX, and PDF
• Keyboard shortcuts proficiency
• Time-stamping and verbatim transcription
• Research skills

• Agricultural companies
• Construction firms
• Corporations
• Educational institutions
• Financial institutions
• Government and nonprofit organizations
• Healthcare
• Hospitality and tourism
• Legal firms
• Manufacturing businesses
• Marketing firms
• Technology and media industries

Transcriptionists are trusted to accurately transcribe audio into text that may be used for medical, legal, business, or other purposes. Even single word mistakes can alter the meaning of someone’s spoken sentence, leading to potential problems.

Audio quality can vary, especially in noisy environments or when multiple people are talking. In addition, some speakers may have heavy accents, making it difficult to understand them properly. Transcriptionists often have to work through such issues, which requires a lot of patience and skill.

Transcription work can be repetitive, listening to recordings and typing for long periods. The job can cause some physical and mental fatigue, so it’s important to take breaks and practice good ergonomics. 

Remote work has transformed the career field, with clients able to tap into a broader pool of workers. This has led to new opportunities but also more competition. As a result, continuous learning and upskilling are essential.

Artificial intelligence and automation are also shaping the transcription field. Many transcriptionists now use AI tools that assist with speech-to-text conversion, increasing efficiency and accuracy.

Specialization is increasingly important. Medical Transcriptionists, for instance, must be well-versed in medical terminology and procedures, while legal transcriptionists need a deep understanding of legal jargon and court processes.

There’s a growing emphasis on data security and confidentiality, requiring Transcriptionists to adhere to strict privacy regulations, industry standards, and relevant laws such as HIPAA and GDPR. The demand for multilingual transcription services is also on the rise, thanks to global business expansion.

Future Transcriptionists often enjoyed activities that required attentive listening. They might have excelled in language arts and enjoyed reading or writing.