subject: Transcription Foot Pedal, Headset, Etc.: Tools of the Trade for Efficient Transcriptionists [print this page] Transcription Foot Pedal, Headset, Etc.: Tools of the Trade for Efficient Transcriptionists
Getting into home transcription is one of the most attractive work from home jobs that you can do without having to put up much capital. The start-up costs to do transcription work are very low. In fact, you can actually start working right away without needing anything other than your home computer, a good internet connection and free transcription software.
You can start general transcription work without investing in equipment. Start by downloading free transcription software. A foot pedal and headset are optional when getting started with general transcription work but recommended.
You can start transcribing without a foot pedal and use the hotkeys provided with free transcription software to stop, start, rewind and play the recording. Some online transcription jobs and general transcription jobs such as transcribing voicemail messages may not require a foot pedal while medical and legal transcription jobs might require them.
However, even if the job doesn't require it, I recommend getting a foot pedal as soon as you can. A headset will make your job easier as well. Both a transcription foot pedal and a headset will make you more efficient in doing your transcription work and help you deliver the finished transcripts on time. You will typically get paid by production and using the right equipment will speed up your transcription work and take on more jobs.
The type of foot pedal and software you're getting will affect what files you can play. But any transcription pedal and free transcription software will get you started and be able to open the most popular audio formats. When buying a transcription foot pedal, think ahead and get one what will be able to open many file formats and provide additional work opportunities for you in the future.
Before you can even think of any equipment that you need and before you start looking for work, you have to first examine what kind of skills you have. Make sure that you have the necessary skills and the right attitude towards transcription work. You need to have the discipline to turn in accurate transcripts within the required time frame. Skills needed include typing, English, spelling and grammar skills.
Concentrate on practicing and improving your skills and when you're ready, start applying for work with several companies. When you're just starting out in transcription, you can apply for work with transcription companies. Those companies act as the middle man between the transcriptionist and the clients. This is the easiest way to get your first transcription jobs. Even if you don't have any previous experience, you can apply for work with those companies and do a test to prove your skills. Working for transcription companies will give you practice and training and get you ready for better transcription jobs in the future. When customers are happy with your work, you can expect repeat business from them.
Equipment such as a transcription foot pedal, a headset, and transcription software will make your job faster and more efficient and will help you deliver the finished transcriptions within the required deadlines. Do some research before buying a foot pedal and transcription software and check what file formats you'll be able to use with them.
There are a lot of equipment suppliers selling transcription foot pedals and headset. Avoid websites that promise you transcription work if purchase transcription equipment or software from them. Don't trust any company that requires you to buy their software or equipment to get work.
