There are a lot of different work from home transcription opportunities.

For example, there are typing jobs for beginners. Plus, specialized options like medical transcription or legal transcription.

So, how do you know which work from home transcription path to take?

Really, it’s all up to your preferences. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of transcription. That way you will know what you’re getting into from the start.

I also recommend taking the free General Transcription course at TranscribeAnywhere. You will receive first-hand knowledge of what it’s like to make a living typing.

Estimated reading time: 16 minutes

What is transcription?

Simply put, transcription is typing out audio into a written document. This document is called a transcript.

There are different types of work from home transcription jobs like:

• Video captioning
• General Transcription
• Legal Transcription
• Medical Transcription
• Insurance Transcription
• Law Enforcement Transcription

Each operate a little differently. But the basic premise is to turn audio (whether from a recording or video) into a written document.

What skills do I need to become a transcriptionist?

Of course, you need to type quickly and accurately while listening to audio. This isn’t an easy task. Take it from me. My first remote job was in transcription. I still consider it one of the most difficult jobs I’ve had!

Additionally, you need to type at least 75 words per minute with 98% accuracy. Take a free typing test to learn your typing stats. It’s important to be a fast and accurate typist for two reasons:

1. Saved Time
2. More Money

When you submit a transcript with errors, your editor will kick it back to you. Now, you have to double-check your work which decreases your earnings. Second, if you type slowly it takes much longer to finish a transcript. Keep in mind, you are paid per job not per hour.

In addition to being quick and accurate you need to have a good grasp of grammar. You are responsible for formatting the transcript into a readable document with proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Spell checkers are okay, but you can’t rely on them. Brush up on basic grammar skills quickly with Udemy.

Do I need special equipment for work from home transcription?

Yes, you will need specific tools. Unfortunately, you can’t just pop in your Air Pods and start typing in Google Docs. There are tools to the trade of transcription.

Software

The industry-standard software for audio transcription is called Express Scribe. You can download a free version of it from NCH Software. In the free version, you’ll be able to play wav, mp3, wma, and dct audio files. For most beginners, this is all you need.

Headset

Confession: I used a cheap pair of headphones from Walmart as a new transcriptionist. This was a huge mistake. I couldn’t make out what was being said because the audio quality was so poor.

Needless to say, a good pair of headphones is a must! Since you download the required software for free, invest those savings into a nice headset.

Air Pods, earbuds, Beats, and other mainstream headphones won’t cut it. These are built for music. They are not built for transcription.

Affordable Headset Options

Fortunately, Amazon sells work from home transcription headsets at reasonable prices. Look for models that go under your chin, have volume control, and replacement ear sponges. The one pictured here works well and sells for around $20 on Amazon.

Trust me, you save a lot of time and money with a good pair of headphones. Plus, you will more easily be able to decipher poor quality audio, which happens a lot!

My Favorite Headset

Olympus and Spectra are two well known brands in the transcription headset world. I’ve used models from both brands. My preference is Spectra for comfort and USB compatibility. Plus, it’s lightweight, has noise cancellation, and rubber tips instead of foam. You can pick one up on Amazon for $30 – $40.

Additionally, my preferred set has rubber ear tips instead of foam. But the noise cancellation feature really set this one apart. This allows for clearer audio with less background noise.

It also helps that they are similar to earbuds you’re already used to. There is hardly an adjustment period when starting out.

These are just a couple of options. A quick search on Amazon returns dozens of work from home transcription headsets.

Read the reviews and consider pricing before purchasing. You don’t need to go all out to get a quality headset.

Do I Need a Foot Pedal?

This is an unpopular opinion but I’m sharing it anyway. You do not always need a foot pedal when starting out. Please, don’t attack me in the comments.

My original transcription job used Express Scribe software. This particular software can be exclusively controlled with hot keys. For example:

• F7 = Rewind
• F8 = Fast Forward
• F4 = Stop
• F9 = Play

There are dozens of other hot keys but these are common keyboard controls. I got really good at using them and didn’t need a foot pedal. Eventually, I broke down and bought one. But I still only used it on occasion like when my hands were tired or for particularly long audio files.

Important Foot Pedal Information

Do not purchase a foot pedal for work from home transcription until you read this. The only foot pedal compatible with the free version of Express Scribe is:

AltoEdge USB Transcription Foot Pedal

This particular foot pedal will set you back roughly $100 on Amazon.

Other Foot Pedal Options

With the paid version of Express Scribe you have more options. However, there are package deals that include Express Scribe Pro, foot pedal, and headset. This entire bundle is just about $120.

You know you’re getting all the right transcription tools with the bundle. The initial investment is larger but it provides a professional setup from the start.

Computer or Chromebook?

You need a personal computer to run Express Scribe. Either a Mac or Windows one will do. Yes, you can use a laptop! Unfortunately, a Chromebook just doesn’t cut it.

Your computer or laptop must meet one of these system requirements:

• Windows 11, XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10
• 64 Bit Windows
• Mac OS X 10.5 or above

Fortunately, computers are more affordable today, especially Windows laptops. A basic HP laptop with Windows 10 will cost around $250.00.

Word Processing

The word processing program you use depends on a lot of factors. You can type directly in Express Scribe or choose an outside program. Keep in mind, Express Scribe will only work with Word, Corel Wordperfect, Lotus Wordpro, or any Windows word processor.

However, most work from home transcription jobs are contract. The company you contract with may require a specific program.

What Transcription Jobs are Out There?

Too many to name! Seriously, there are a lot of different typist opportunities. But let’s take a further look at the three main ones:

1. General Transcriptions
2. Medical Transcription
3. Legal Transcription

General Transcription Jobs

Most beginner opportunities will fall under general transcription which consists of market research, lectures, seminars, and utterances (to name a few).

Typically, you do not need special training for general transcription work. However, you will still benefit from general transcription training as a newbie. Transcription coursework boosts your chances of landing a better entry level gig. Unfortunately, some transcription companies pay extremely low rates. A little training under your belt sets you up for better paying transcription jobs.

Start with the free general transcription mini course below.

I also encourage you to read success stories from real students. These first-hand stories are motivating as you learn how to become a general transcriptionist.

Medical Scribe Jobs

To be a medical transcriptionist you need training. A medical scribe must know about anatomy and be familiar with common healthcare lingo. Today, scribes must also learn transcript editing.

According to TechXplore, many doctors use speech-to-text software to dictate notes for patients’ charts.

In fact, Amazon has its own speech-to-text software called Amazon Transcribe Medical.

But this software isn’t perfect (yet). Trained professionals still proofread and polish software transcripts for accuracy before becoming part of a patient’s medical records.

That’s why it’s important to choose a certification program that teaches both medical transcription and transcript editing. I recommend Career Step.

CareerStep is flexible and affordable. You can train online at your convenience. Learn how you can complete training in as little as two months by visiting the CareerStep Information Page. Just fill out the form to learn all about the program. You might find another program that interests you too!

You can receive a $300 discount on healthcare programs on CareerStep by using this link and letting them know Ashlee Anderson sent you!

Legal Transcription Jobs

Legal transcription jobs require training because of all the legalese. That’s a fancy word for lawyer jargon. But seriously, legal scribes watch or listen to recorded depositions and accurately type what is being said. These transcripts become legal records and are an important part of a case. You need to know and understand terminology to do this accurately.

Legal transcription also requires a high degree of confidentiality and precision. Training prepares you for all these factors. It also shows clients you are already familiar with legal transcription and can get the job done!

Don’t just jump into legal transcription training just yet. First, learn the basics to see if transcription is actually right for you.

What Else Should I Know About Work from Home Transcription Jobs for Beginners?

Turnaround time

Every transcription company will have a different turnaround time or TAT as they are commonly referred to. The turnaround time could be 24 hours, a week, or anywhere in between. If you are unable to complete a job within the specified TAT, do not accept it!

Meeting or exceeding deadlines is important. The company you type for is promising their clients that they will have a completed transcript within a certain window–it’s your job to make sure you can deliver it on time, every time. If not, you’ll likely find that your services will be terminated.

Fortunately, most scribes are independent contractors or freelancers. This gives you total control over your schedule. You can work at 2:00 a.m. if you want. But always keep deadlines in mind.

Audio hour

An audio hour and an actual hour are two very different things. You will come across work from home transcription jobs that advertise pay rates of $15.00 per audio hour.

As a beginner, you’ll think, “Wow, $15.00 an hour is a pretty good rate of pay with no experience!” And, you’d be correct, if it was actually $15.00 an hour, but it’s not. An audio hour is an hour of recorded audio.

Keep in mind, one hour of recorded audio or video will take you about four hours to transcribe. This four hours includes typing the transcript and proofreading and editing your work.

You will improve your time as you gain more experience. Experienced scribes can finish an hour of audio is three hours or less – a big difference!

Now the $15.00 audio hour pay rate doesn’t sound appealing. It ends up being about $3.75 per hour. Even completing the job in three hours would still only be five bucks an hour.

Many new scribes confuse audio hour rates with actual hours. Do not accept work that pays well below minimum wage. Your services are worth more than that.

So what is a fair pay rate?

So, you ask, “What is a fair rate of pay?” Depending to whom you pose this question, you’ll get a variety of answers.

A fair rate of pay is whatever amount you’re willing to work for.  Always gauge what you’ll make an hour on a project or assignment (based on the the three to four hours per audio hour rule) and decide whether it’s an amount you’re okay with. If it is great! Start typing. If it’s not, don’t accept it.

Some projects or assignments base pay by the word, character, line, or even page. Often, you will encounter these types of pay as you gain experience and work in a particular niche.

For example, I was paid per page when doing insurance transcription work. As a legal typist, I was paid per every 65-character line.

When pay is broken down like this, it’s difficult to determine your hourly pay rate. As a beginner, you won’t know what an average page count or character count is per audio hour.

Estimate Earnings

However, you can come up with a very rough estimate.

An average minute of audio contains approximately 140 words.

Let’s say you come across work from home transcription jobs that advertise a rate of $0.005 per word. You could estimate your likely earnings this way:

60 minutes of audio x 140 words x .005 = $42.00.

Remember, this is $42.00 per audio hour.

So, if it takes you four hours, you would make $10.50 per hour. If it takes you three hours, your hour rate increases to $14.00.

Work from Home Self Employment

Nine times of out ten, transcription jobs will hold independent contractor (IC) status. As a contractor you are self-employed. Wondering how to be self employed from home? You’re not alone.

Self Employment Facts

You can easily be overwhelmed by the idea of self employment. However, it’s not as scary as you think. Here are quick facts to know about self-employment from home:

• Your client/company will not take out taxes from your pay.
• You are responsible to pay quarterly estimated taxes to the IRS.
• You are not an employee and are not entitled to employer benefits.
• Work from home transcription is a service. You bill your clients for these services.
• You might receive a 1099-NEC if you contract with a company and earn more than $600 in a year.

Don’t panic. Nobody likes to talk about taxes and the IRS. But, as long as you pay quarterly estimated taxes you’ll be fine!

Running a Work from Home Transcription Business

I recommend using QuickBooks Self-Employed. It keeps track of money coming in and your business expenses. Remember, you are a business of one as a self-employed scribe.

Plus, QuickBooks takes the guesswork out of taxes. It reminds you when it is time to pay quarterly estimated taxes and how much you should pay. And, at the end of the year, QuickBooks pairs with TurboTax so you can easily e-file.

See? Not so scary after all.

When in doubt, default to the IRS. They provide a lot of helpful resources specifically for the self-employed.

Find Work from Home Transcription Jobs

You’ve made it this far now you’re ready to get to work. So, where can you find transcription jobs right now?

There are companies that contract with transcriptionists. Keep in mind, the pay rate is often low. However, it is an option to practice transcription and gain experience. Eventually, you can branch out and find your own clients. Remember, it’s up to you to decide if a job is worth it or not.

I have a list of transcription jobs online for beginners. Feel free to browse through the companies listed. Always visit their website to see if they’re accepting applications and how much they pay. Get in the mindset that these companies are great starting points, but should not be long term. You and your services are valuable.

Train to Become a General Transcriptionist

If you want to become a medical transcriptionist or a legal transcriptionist, remember you need training. Good transcription courses teach you the ins and out of typing and how to run your business.

Start today with the free mini course at TranscribeAnywhere or request more information about medical transcription via CareerStep.

There are plenty of work from home transcription jobs out there. It’s up to you to find the right fit.

Questions? Comments? Concerns? Leave them in the comments below. I’ll do my bet to answer them.

Happily,

Ashlee

This post contains affiliate links. Please see the disclosure statement for more information.

The post Work From Home Transcription: A Complete Beginner’s Guide appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

Transcription is a popular way to earn a living from home. In fact, it was the very first work from home job I landed!

Granted, I didn’t set out to become a paid typist. But it was still a welcome way to earn a living from the comfort of home.

You see, after years of working in a cubicle, I finally quit the corporate world to pursue freelance writing.

As it turns out, becoming a highly paid freelance writer takes time. So, while I built up my writing biz and portfolio, I needed money coming in to pay the bills. A girl’s gotta eat, right?

Enter transcription!

What I loved about working as a transcriptionist was the flexibility it afforded me.

As a new mom who was also side hustling like crazy to build a writing career, transcription allowed me to work when and where I could.

And while I don’t currently type for a living anymore, it’s definitely a career path I recommend for anyone looking for a high-paying way to work from home.

As a bonus, you can specialize in a specific type of transcription based on your interests. A great option for anyone looking to work from home in healthcare is medical transcription. And you can launch this lucrative career in under a year.

What Does A Medical Transcriptionist Do?

The world of medical transcription has evolved a lot in recent years thanks to technology. Today, many doctors and hospitals use speech-to-text software, which automatically turns recorded dictation into text.

However, software isn’t perfect. And that’s why medical transcriptionists are needed to both transcribe dictation AND edit speech-to-text files.

“What’s the difference,” you ask?

Good question.

As a medical transcriptionist, you will:

Listen to recorded dictation from doctors and type out what is being said

The reports you type out eventually become a part of a patient’s medical records.

As a medical transcription editor, you will:

Review and correct reports that were created by speech recognition software.

Being able to both transcribe dictation and edit software-generated text is key to succeeding as a medical transcriptionist today.

What’s The Difference Between Medical Transcription And General Transcription?

A general transcriptionist often handles a lot of different files. Some common types of audio a general typist may transcribe include lectures, focus groups, and business meetings.

Often, you do not need any formal training to become a general transcriptionist. In fact, there are a number of companies that hire general transcriptionists — no experience necessary.

Medical transcriptionists focus specifically on the medical field. Typically, this means transcribing doctor’s dictation (the audio doctors record after meeting a patient). To be successful, you’ll need a good understanding of anatomy and medical terminology.

That’s why it’s important to have medical transcription training. This gives you a solid foundation of medical vocabulary, terminiology, and a general understanding of the human body — all subject matter that you will encounter while transcribing doctor dictation!

What Kind Of Money Can I Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average medical typist earns roughly $30,000 each year.

Keep in mind, transcriptionists are often paid based on production. That is, the more you work, the more you earn.

For example, medical transcriptionists might earn $0.05 for every word typed, regardless of how long it takes you to type it.

So, let’s say you receive a doctor’s dictation that is an hour long. It takes you 4 hours total time to completely transcribe and edit your transcript. The final result is a 3,000 word report.

• 3,000 x $0.05 = $150
• $150/4 hours = $37.50 an hour

As you become more familiar with a doctor, particular industry, and transcription in general, your speed will increase which will ultimately increase your income potential!

What Equipment Will I Need To Get Started?

Back in the day, you needed a special machine to play teeny tiny cassettes in order to work from home as a transcriptionist.

Today, the majority of all medical transcription work is done online with software.

The software you’ll need depends on the medical field you work in, the doctor(s) you transcribe for, and their preferred format.

But generally speaking, you’ll need:

• Word processing software (like Word)
• Software to playback, fast forward, rewind, and pause recorded audio
• Foot pedal
• Medical dictionary
• Quality headset

Remember, the actual equipment and software you need will vary. But this should give you a pretty good idea of what the bare necessities are

Do I Really Need Training To Become A Medical Transcriptionist?

The short answer, Yes!

To even be considered an entry-level candidate, you will need some type of training or certification under your belt. Without it, you’ll find it next to impossible to find work.

The good news is, you can train online to become a medical transcriptionist and editor (and be ready for your new career in under a year).

Medical Transcription Editor at Career Step

Career Step is an online school that provides career-focused education. It’s a great option for busy parents, caretakers, or those working a full-time job since you can work at your own pace and finish school on your timeline.

With their Medical Transcription Editor program, you learn the skills needed to be a competitive entry-level candidate in the growing healthcare industry. Plus, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge needed to both transcribe audio and edit transcripts after completing one short course.

What Will I Learn?

The course was developed by experienced medical transcriptionists to specifically prepare students for today’s technology-driven approach to medical transcription.

Because doctors and hospitals may sometimes use speech-recognition software as well as traditional dictation methods, the Career Step Medical Transcription Editor course prepares you for both transcribing and editing transcripts.

Topics covered include:

• Medical terminology
• Grammar and punctuation
• Anatomy and physiology
• Typing
• Time management & productivity

Upon completing the course, graduates are prepared to enter the workforce as either a medical transcriptionist, editor, or both!

Why Should I Choose Training With Career Step?

For starters, Career Step is well known in the medical transcription and editing community as providing quality education and training for more than 20 years.

Employers even seek out Career Step graduates to fill open medical transcription positions!

In fact, 92% of Medical Transcription Editor Career Step students find employment after graduation.

Plus, all students:

• Can graduate in just 4 months
• Get a foot pedal to use (and keep!)
• Choose when they go to school
• Receive one-on-one support
• Go through 40+ hours of actual doctor dictation
• Enjoy the freedom and flexibility to work at their own pace

All of this (and so much more) is offered to students at one low tuition price. There’s even tuition assistance available for those who qualify.

Head on over to Career Step today to learn more about how you can train online for a rewarding career in medical transcription.

Still Not Sure?

No problem!

It’s a BIG decision on whether or not to go back to school to learn a work-from-home skill. I get it. That’s why I recommend you do tons of research ahead of time.

Before you jump all in, check out this video to see if working from home as a medical transcriptionist is right for you.

Have any questions? Leave them in the comments below!

Happily,

Ashlee

P.S. This post contains affiliate links for Career Step. When you enroll in a Career Step program, I receive a small commission. Don’t worry, it doesn’t cost you anything extra. Learn more about my use of affiliate links by checking out my disclosure statement.

The post How To Become A Work From Home Medical Transcriptionist (In 4 Short Months) appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

Did you know Entrepreneur named bookkeeping as one of the most profitable online small businesses?

The low overhead and next-to-nothing startup costs combined with the $80+ per hour rate help it land this coveted title.

And that’s why, if you’re in the market for a new online career, I highly recommend starting a virtual bookkeeping business.

Even if you have absolutely zero professional bookkeeping experience, you can get started with this in-demand, high-paying, remote-friendly career path. Here’s how.

Sign up for a FREE Discovery Series to learn how to own a successful digital bookkeeping biz.

What Does A Bookkeeper Do, Anyway?

Many people confuse a bookkeeper with an accountant. In reality, they are two very completely different careers. For starters, accountants often require a degree or even certification. Bookkeepers, on the other hand, don’t require formal education.

Education aside, the roles of a bookkeeper and accountant are also quite different.

What An Accountant Does

You may use an accountant to do your taxes each year, and for good reason: Accountants figure out taxes owed and prepare tax returns. But they also help individuals and businesses:

• Organize financial records
• Comply with state and federal laws
• Examine financial statements
• Evaluate records and suggest ways to save money

Often, accountants audits financial statements, but aren’t responsible for day-to-day finances. That is, they don’t pay bills or deal with accounts payable or accounts receivable.

What A Bookkeeper Does

Unlike accountants, bookkeepers often take charge of a business’s daily financial health. They may be responsible for paying bills or collecting payments on invoices. Other responsibilities of bookkeepers include:

• Updating financial records
• Creating financial reports
• Checking records for accuracy
• Posting financial records in computer programs
• Putting debits and credits to appropriate accounts

A bookkeeper may also receive receipts, reimburse company employees for work-related expenses, and take charge of accounts receivable.

Generally, a bookkeeper is responsible for keeping track of all debits and credits — money going in and money going out on a daly basis.

How Much Can I Earn?

For an entry-level bookkeeper, hourly rates hover at about $18.50 an hour. This comes out to nearly $40,000 a year. Keep in mind, this is for bookkeepers who work in the accounting department of a company or corporation.

Bookkeepers who strike out on their own can often earn three times that rate (or more). Mostly because freelancers, like virtual bookkeepers, can set their own rates. And, because these bookkeepers often work for multiple clients, their combined hourly rate is much greater than the set pay of an employee position.

Can I Really Become A Bookkeeper Without A Degree?

You sure can! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), entry-level bookkeepers don’t have a degree. Instead, candidates rely on a combination of existing skills and on-the-job training to be successful in the workplace.

What About Previous Professional Experience?

Again, because a bookkeeper does not advise organizations on financial records, no previous experience is required. Many bookkeepers gain experience on the job while working in accounts receivable, accounts payable, or in an administrative-type role.

Find out more about what bookkeepers need to be successful during the free discovery series at Bookkeepers.com.

Where Can I Find Remote Bookkeeping Jobs?

Almost every business — large and small — benefits from the services of a bookkeeper. While there aren’t specific companies that routinely hire bookkeeping candidates, almost any remote-friendly company will, at some point, have the need for a bookkeeper.

Keep an eye on Indeed for remote bookkeeping jobs updated daily. Be sure to bookmark my weekly job leads page, I’m always quick to share legitimate bookkeeping jobs!

You can even subscribe to FlexJobs if you’re worried about scams. FlexJobs individually screens every single listing on their site and guarantees they are 100% legit. It does cost a monthly fee, but it may be worth the cost for peace of mind

Freelancing as a Virtual Bookkeeper

Don’t forget to sign up for popular freelance marketplace sites. Often, you can find a variety of bookkeeping jobs posted across the different platforms. These can range from temporary gigs to long-term projects.

The key to success as a new freelancer is to pick a niche and stick with it. In this case, maybe you’d like to become a bookkeeper who helps florists. Or maybe you’d like to work as a virtual bookkeeper for lawyers. You can always expand your niche, but in the beginning it’s a good idea to focus on a particular client and grow organically.

Once you have a niche in mind, it’s time to set up a freelance service site that sells your bookkeeping services for you. This is actually really easy to do (I promise!). And all starts with a well-branded domain name. For example, yourname.com or yournamebookkeeping.com

Curious if you can turn your name into a website? Check to see if it’s available by typing it in the box below:

Getting your own freelance bookkeeping website set up is an important step. But what comes next is even more important: getting clients!

A great place to start learning the basics of securing clients is by reading (and re-reading) the book: How To Open Your Own In-Home Bookkeeping Service.

It’s packed with a lot of insight and helpful tips for gaining traction as a home-based bookkeeper!

Help! I Want To Start A Virtual Bookkeeping Business But Need Step By Step Guidance

No problem. I too like a little hand holding when it comes to going down a new path. And there’s nothing wrong with that!

If you’d like to build a solid foundation that leads to a thriving bookkeeping business, I highly recommend Bookkeeper Launch and their free discovery series.

Ben Robinson, the mastermind behind this online course, breaks down the business behind bookkeeping step by step.

He’ll also give you the tools needed to start from scratch and grow to a thriving, independent bookkeeper regardless of your previous experience.

But before you go all in and sign up, be sure to take this free 3-part training series. In it, you’ll learn what a bookkeeper does, why it may be a good fit for you, and whether or not you’ve got what it takes to get started.

I WANT TO LEARN ABOUT BOOKKEEPING FOR FREE

Happily,

Ashlee Anderson

P.S. This post contains affiliate links. Learn how I use them by reading my disclosure statement. 

The post How To Become A Bookkeeper At Home (Even If You Have No Experience) appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

Keep in mind, it will take hard work. You can’t expect that if you decide to become a VA work will magically fall into your lap.

However, you can become a successful VA with the right combination of dedication, determination, and enthusiasm (which should be no problem — after all, these are common traits of superstar VAs!).

Ready? Read on to learn how to become a virtual assistant with no experience.

Who Uses Virtual Assistants and Why?

Small business owners, solopreneurs, busy professionals, and bloggers all use virtual assistants. When there’s just not enough hours in the day to get everything done, it makes sense to outsource tasks to a VA. This frees up valuable time for the client to work on projects and tasks only they can complete.

Plus, it’s much more cost-effective to hire a VA than an in-office employee. For the client, this means savings on things like office supplies, health insurance, and other employee benefits programs.

Ready to jump-start your own virtual assistant business? Learn more than 275 services virtual assistants, like you, can offer.

Who Would Make a Great VA?

One of the great things about the VA profession is that so many diverse backgrounds translate well to virtual assisting. Of course, anyone with admin or clerical experience likely knows a few tricks of the trade to providing standout professional support, but teachers, stay-at-home parents, human resources pros, paralegals, nurses, and accountants possess many of the traits needed to succeed, too! And that’s just a short list.

Work history aside, some of the traits that generally make for a great VA include:

• Patience
• Honesty
• Discretion
• Personable
• Professional
• Organized

This isn’t an all-inclusive list, of course. But if you were nodding your head in agreement as you ran through that list, you probably already possess the soft skills needed to succeed as a VA!

How to Become a Virtual Assistant with No Experience

So, you know you’ve got what it takes to be successful but aren’t exactly sure where to start? That’s okay. You want to make sure you get started the right way. This will help you gain your footing and ultimately grow a successful business. The last thing you want to do is get started without a plan in place. Grasping at straws hoping something will work isn’t nearly as effective as going into the VA field with a well thought out strategy!

Start Small

I always recommend all beginners, no matter the profession, pick a niche. Whether you want to be a writer, proofreader, transcriptionist or, in this case, are wondering how to become a virtual assistant with no experience, the first thing you should do is settle on a niche.

Why?

It’s much easier to find potential clients, land jobs, and establish yourself as an expert when you’re focused on a particular group. And becoming an expert is what you should be aiming for. As an expert, you can command higher rates and will have clients seeking out your services rather than you constantly tracking down your next gig.

If a virtual assistant niche isn’t jumping right out you, here’s some of the most common (and lucrative!) options you might want to consider. Or, get inspired with this workbook filled with 275+ services VAs can offer.

Social Media Assistant

Social media is a time suck for business owners, bloggers and brands. (Believe me, I know!). As a virtual social media assistant, you help free up a client’s time by managing their social presence.  This can include creating content, finding share-worthy articles, making pin-worthy graphics and responding to DMs and comments.

You may be a good fit for this niche if you:

• Can pin, post, tweet, snap and update with the best of them
• Know what’s trending before it’s actually trending
• Are familiar with automation tools like Buffer, Tailwind, and Hootsuite
• Understand what it takes to generate buzz and create brand awareness

This particular VA niche has exploded in recent years, and shows no signs of stopping. It seems like every day there’s a new social platform to conquer and different best practices to follow. As a social media virtual assistant, you can be the pro that helps businesses, bloggers and brands attract new readers and grow a loyal audience.

Pinterest is a good example. Many VAs become Pinterest Assistants and get paid to pin full time!

Blogger’s Virtual Assistant

Bloggers are usually jacks and jills of all trades. That is, they do just about everything when it comes to creating, updating, and maintaining their blogs and online presence. When you’re a one-man or one-woman show, it’s hard to keep up with this daily routine. That’s where you come in.

As a blogger’s assistant you may:

• Help write, edit, and post blog content
• Assist with graphic creation using applications like Canva or PicMonkey
• Respond to reader emails
• Optimize existing content by removing/fixing broken links, adding affiliate links, etc.
• Help schedule social media

If you’re just starting out as a blogger or have always wanted to start your own blog, being a blogger’s VA is a great learning opportunity. You’ll get a first-hand look at how a profitable blog operates and learn a tip or two along the way.

Ecommerce Assistant

Running a virtual storefront requires a lot of upkeep. Online store owners may have hundreds of thousands of items in their ever-changing inventory. Plus, there’s orders, returns and general customer service inquiries to handle on a daily basis. How on Earth do they keep up? They outsource work to a virtual assistant, like you, of course!

What you might do as an ecommerce VA:

• Write product descriptions
• Respond to customer billing inquiries
• Track packages and handle returns
• Help promote sales and product launches

Sellers may have their own sites or use a combination of popular platforms. Some of the most common ways to sell online include Amazon, Ebay, Etsy and Shopify. While you likely won’t be handling physical merchandise as an ecommerce VA, you will help run the day-to-day operations of a store. This is a great opportunity to use your real world retail skills in a virtual setting!

Real Estate Assistant

A lot goes into buying and selling property. That’s why buyers and sellers turn to realtors for help. Realtors secure home listings, help buyers find the perfect property, market listings, and stage open houses (to name a few). This is a lot to do for one person! To help stay organized and provide amazing support to buyers and sellers alike, realtors often outsource tasks so they can focus on their clients’ needs.

Some things you might do as a realtor’s VA:

• Schedule listing appointments and home viewings
• Market open houses
• Calendar management
• Write listing descriptions that sell
• Reach out to prospective buyers/sellers

If you have a background in real estate or simply have an interest in the field, this is a great opportunity to gain experience. While you won’t actually be showing houses, you will play an important role to the realtor that helps contribute to their overall success!

Ready to get into the field of real estate assisting? Find out how to become a Virtual Real Estate Assistant and create a career you’ll love.

General Admin Assistant

I know I said it’s important to pick a niche. So you might be wondering why general admin assistant made the list. In reality, a general VA is a niche of it’s own. How so?

Solopreneurs and small business owners need help. Chances are, they’ve got orders rolling in and clients to please. But there’s also the internal things that need to get taken care of on a daily basis. It’s hard to concentrate on delivering quality work when there’s an administrative to-do list a mile long.

You can exclusively market yourself to these busy professionals. They don’t have the need for their own receptionist or operations manager but they do need a helping hand to help them get more done in a day — and that person could be you!

Where to Find Virtual Assistant Jobs

A number of companies contract with virtual assistants. These companies serve as the middleman between you, the VA, and the client. You’ll likely work as an IC and be paid based on the number of clients you work with or amount of time you log.

But if you’re wondering how to become a virtual assistant with no experience, these companies might not be the best fit for you. Many of them exclusively contract with experienced VAs.

Boldy

Boldy is a unique company that hires VAs. At Boldly, you are hired as an employee instead of a contractor. Most Boldly VAs work part-time and have the flexibility to build their own schedule. To work at Boldly you need at least seven years experience! Check out my Boldly Review to find out what it’s like to work there.

Time Etc.

However, if you come from an admin or clerical background, you might want to check out Time Etc. You don’t need VA experience here to be considered but you will need to have previously worked as an executive assistant, receptionist, or any other admin-type position. This is a pretty flexible opportunity. In fact, if you have as little as three hours to spare each week, you can apply to become a VA here.

Fancy Hands

Another beginner-friendly platform to get your feet wet is Fancy Hands. This is a unique crowdsourced VA platform. Fancy Hands Virtual Assistants all have access to a pool of client tasks. Tasks are claimed on a first come first served basis. So, you never know what kinds of jobs may be available at any given time. You’re paid per task ($2.00-$7.00). Each one should only take about 15-20 minutes to complete. Payments are issued every two weeks via Dwolla.

Upwork

Upwork is the largest freelance marketplace. There are literally thousands of gigs posted at any given time. It’s free to sign up at Upwork. However, they take a 10% cut of any payments you receive! If you start out here, you’ll want to fill out your profile completely and learn the art of crafting the perfect pitch. Ryan Robinson, content marketing consultant to some big-name companies, knows a thing or two about writing a winning proposal. Check out his 5 Steps to Writing the Perfect Freelance Proposal to give yourself a leg up on the competition.

Remote Job Boards

I always recommend you regularly visit remote job boards. These are niche job search sites that specifically focus on remote jobs! Most of these sites are broken down by category. One of the popular categories is administrative assistant. That means you can finds dozens of virtual assistant jobs on these sites.

Create Your Own Freelance VA Career

Many pros become a virtual assistant with no experience by starting their own freelance business.

Now, it can seem overwhelming to become a freelancer but it’s honestly not that difficult. A whopping 57 million Americans freelance. If they can do it, so can you. What’s more, freelancers earn 70% more per hour than traditional workers.

And, your startup costs are very minimal. Really, all you need is to set up a freelance service website (which you can totally DIY) and that’s it. Now you are ready to market your services to potential clients.

Social media and LinkedIn and two great places to start. But, if you need extra support to establish yourself as a VA, I highly recommend online virtual assistant training.

Online Virtual Assistant Training

You need a lot of sweat equity to become a virtual assistant with no experience. I’m talking about many hours spent setting up your services, finding clients, and marketing yourself before you ever get paid.

But, there’s a way to fast track your business (and success) by signing up for virtual assistant training.

HorkeyHandbook

Gina Horkey started a successful VA biz from scratch and now she shares her tips as a VA biz coach over at Horkey Handbook. In just 5 steps (and 30 days or less) you can learn what it takes to be a VA, whether it’s right for you, and start earning income. All it takes is a small $97 investment for this quick-start mini course.

Pinterest VA

Ready to offer Pinterest services as a VA? No problem. You can learn from the best by signing up for courses at Become A Pinterest Virtual Assistant Today.

Real Estate Assistant

Real estate is big business which also makes it a very profitable VA niche. Find out how you can offer real estate assistant services and find virtual work helping realtors with training at Horkey Handbook.

Get Started Today – Become A Virtual Experience With No Experience

The best way to become a VA is to simply get started. Start small and build up momentum. You can:

• Pick a niche
• Create your freelance service site
• Make connections on LinkedIn
• Let others know about your services on social media

And, when in doubt, get extra help. The online courses we talked about like Horkey Handbook and Become A Pinterest VA are your go-to resources for online VA training.

Before you know it, you’ll be up and running as a VA, experience or not

Happily,

Ashlee

P.S. This post contains affiliate links. Check out my disclosure statement to learn more.

The post How to Become a Virtual Assistant with No Experience appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

If content is king, then content marketers are the wizards that sprinkle their magic all over the kingdom to make everything look amazing.

Alright, that might not be the best analogy. But my point is that content marketers make great content. And to businesses great content = better search engine rankings = more money. We’ll get into that more in a bit. But because amazing content marketing wizards can increase revenue for businesses, they can also command big bucks. And, as it turns out, content marketing is a remote-friendly career path with lots of avenues to earn.

Let’s take a look at how to become a content marketer, even if you have absolutely zero professional marketing or writing experience.

What is a Content Marketer?

Before we learn how to become a content marketer, let’s look at what a content marketer is.

I know earlier I compared content marketers to wizards who create magical, money-making content.

Of course, this is an oversimplification of content marketing.

Content marketers wear a lot of different (wizard) hats. They require different skill sets, knowledge, and experience. Before we take a deep dive into the nitty gritty of content marketing, let’s loosely define what a content marketer is.

A content marketer is a person who creates content that attracts readers and turns them into customers.

What kind of content they create, how they create it, and where they share it depends on the product being sold.

However, the greatest need for content marketers is in the vast ever-expanding space we call the Internet. And, for the purpose of this career guide, I will focus on how to become a content marketer online.

Today, many content marketers are needed to plan, produce, and promote written content to reach online audiences and turn them into paying customers.

Skills & Competencies of Content Marketers

At its core, content marketing is broken down into two parts: content and marketing. To become a successful content marketer, you need to know how to do both equally well. Let’s look at content first.

Content Writing Skills

If you hate writing, content marketing is not your career path. Period. You have to love to write. At this very moment, you already know whether or not writing is a passion of yours. If you agonize over word choices and can’t even let an email go until it’s worded just right, you’re a language lover and a passionate writer.

Now you can turn your wordsmith ways into a content marketing career. But, remember, when you’re writing as a content marketer, your aim is to create compelling content that sells. That’s where the marketing part comes into play.

Marketing Skills

I’m going to let you in on a little secret. There’s not a whole lot of money to be made for most people in the fiction or journalism side of writing. A lucky few will get their novels published, but far more will never actually make it that far. Similarly, news sites have just a handful of paid staff writers. The rest are often guest posts (written for free) or one-off freelancers getting paid pennies per word. Literally.

To truly make a living as a writer, your best best it to learn how to become a content marketer. But you can’t just create bland content. You have to write crisp, clean content that piques readers’ interests and compels them to become consumers. When you do this, you become a sought after content marketer who can command big bucks for their writing.

Additional Content Marketing Skills

• Proofreading
• Editing
• Grammar
• Search Engine Optimization
• Link Building
• WordPress
• Blogging

Content Marketing Training

You don’t need a creative writing degree or a marketing degree to become a content marketer. Clients will care more about results than your credentials.

Remember, you just can’t call yourself a content marketer and expect to make money. You have to prove you can write content that sells.

The best way to do that is to complete training that prepares you to market yourself as content marketer. That way you can hone your skills AND command a fair wage for your work.

I highly recommend the Highly Paid Freelance Writer workshop at SmartBlogger. My friend, Jon Morrow, has perfected the art of earning $200+ for blog posts and helps new freelance writers do the same. His unique training to teaches you how to become a content marketer so you can earn 10x more than traditional writers.

Through December 16, 2020 you can register for his signature workshop for free!

Work Schedule

Content marketers get to work flexible schedules. That means you can work late nights, early mornings, or anytime in between. Essentially, content marketers can fit work into their lives, and not the other way around.

You just need to meet deadlines and have work turned in on time. Most content marketers work on a freelance basis. That means you are your own boss and can work how and when you want, as long as you complete assignments on time.

Freelancing as a Content Marketer

Typically, content marketers are freelancers. They get paid to write a blog post or email series, landing page, or other one-off piece of content. You agree on pay before you start working and, once you’re done with the work, you get paid.

Remember, freelancing is different than employee positions.

What It Means To Be a Freelancer

• Pay your own quarterly estimated taxes
• Are not eligible for benefits like health insurance or paid time off
• Must find your own clients by pitching your services
• Can work when and where you please

Freelance content marketers can find clients on marketplace sites, like Upwork. But, the better paying gigs come from networking and pitching your services to potential clients. LinkedIn is a great place to establish your content marketing career.

Before you get too excited, let’s take a step back and be honest. Freelancing is not for everyone. But freelancing does offer a chance to work remotely on a very flexible schedule with unlimited earning potential.

Find Work as a Content Marketer

Good content marketing training will prepare you to find work after you’ve completed it. That’s why I recommend Content Marketing Certification at SmartBlogger. Not only will you develop content marketing skills you can sell, you can also learn how to pitch those skills successfully.

Successful freelance writers often follow steps to start getting clients:

• Pick a niche
• Write a powerful LinkedIn Profile
• Create a freelance website that sells your services for you
• Warm email potential clients
• Establish a personal brand that helps you sell
• Do good work that result in referrals on autopilot

It’s not always an easy road. I started a freelance writing career from scratch and it was the hardest year of my life! But it was also rewarding, and I wouldn’t hesitate to do it all over again if given the chance.

You have to be driven, disciplined, and genuinely love writing to succeed in the world of freelance content marketing.

Career Coaching for Aspiring Content Marketers

Not sure if content marketing is right for you? Worried about freelancing? Have waaayy more questions than answers?

No problem. Work with me!

Check out my 30-Minute Remote Career Q & A coaching service. In just 30 minutes, we’ll figure out what remote work is right for you and you’ll even get a free custom PDF to guide you.

Ready to learn more? Check out all the details over at Remotely You.

Happily,

Ashlee Anderson, CPCC
P.S. This post contains affiliate links. Check out my disclosure statement to learn more.

The post How To Become A Content Marketer: A Guide for Beginners appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

In fact, a CNBC survey found there were far MORE remote medical coder jobs than there are trained professionals to fill them. 

In other words, if you want a remote career path that has plenty of job opportunities, this is it. Plus, as a whole, the healthcare industry is booming. Currently, healthcare is now the U.S.’s largest employer.

As a bonus, you won’t have to spend years in school to break into the well-respected medical field (more on that later). What’s not to love? 

An entry-level, remote-friendly career in health care that pays well and is in demand may sound ideal. But, are you really ready to become a remote medical coder or are you better suited for something else? 

Let’s find out. This guide will provide a quick overview of what you need to know to become a remote medical coder (and whether it’s the right career path for you). 

What Is A Medical Coder? 

A medical coder is a trained professional that transforms diagnoses, procedures, and equipment into universal alphanumeric (letters and numbers)  ‘codes.’ 

Every time you go see a doctor or medical provider, your visit becomes part of your medical records. Included in these records are every single diagnosis (from the common cold to more complicated matters) and any procedures performed.

It’s a medical coder’s job to assign a specific code to each of these diagnoses and procedures so that they become a universally understood (and permanent)  part of your medical history. 

What Are The Job Responsibilities of A Medical Coder? 

There are two common medical coding classifications: 

1. International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 
2. Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) 

Most medical billing and coding professionals will use BOTH classifications throughout the course of their work. 

To do that, a medical coder reads a patient’s chart to find any procedures performed or diagnoses given. Then they assign a code (from the classifications mentioned above) to each one. 

These codes are often submitted to insurance for reimbursement as well as relate one diagnosis or procedure to another. 

In addition to assigning codes to patient records, medical coders: 

• Review medical records for accuracy and completion
• Analyze records for previous diagnoses 
• Maintain strict confidentiality and accuracy when handling records 

Needless to say, medical coders provide an important service for patients, providers, and insurance payers! 

Would I Make A Good Medical Coder? 

As a remote medical coder, you’ll spend a lot of time in front of a computer. There’s also a good amount of typing, research, and documentation on a daily basis. And, even though you’re part of the medical field, you’ll have no direct contact with patients. 

So, if you were hoping to find a healthcare career that allowed you to interact with patients regularly or played an active role in patient care, medical coding is not for you. 

However, if you thrive in a solo environment and enjoy digesting large amounts of information regularly, medical coding is right up your alley.  Similarly, you would make a good medical coder if you: 

• Can quickly process a lot of information 
• Have basic clerical skills 
• Use logic and reason to resolve problems
• Are able to organize, plan, and prioritize work independently 
• Possess an attention to detail that allows you to be thorough and accurate 

Check out the video below to see if medical coding is a good fit for you: 

What Are The Education Requirements? 

To become a remote medical coder you do not need a degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most medical coders are high school graduates with a post-secondary certification.

If you do not have your high school diploma, start there! Any certification program will require you to have it or your GED before enrolling. 

If you already have your high school diploma or GED, you can enroll in a certificate program. Note, completing a certificate program and being a certified medical coder are two different things! 

When you enroll in a medical coder certificate program, you will receive training in medical coding. The training you receive will prepare you to sit for (and pass!) your certification. But, you have to complete your training before you are eligible to take any medical coding certification exams. 

There are several certification exams you can take once you graduate. And, you can even pursue higher education, if you so wish. This can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. But, that’s putting the cart before the horse.

At a bare minimum, to be considered an entry-level medical coder you need a Health Information Management (HIM) Certificate and at least one of the following certifications: 

• Certified Coding Associate (CCA) 
• Certified Professional Coder (CPC) 

That’s it. Once you have those under your belt, you are a trained medical coding professional and are eligible to apply for entry level jobs, which can earn an average of $40,000 annually according to the BLS. 

Remote Medical Coder Training 

A quick google search and you’ll find A LOT of websites that offer medical coding training. But, not all of these programs are created equal. 

Always choose a course that issues a HIM Certificate upon graduation AND prepares you to take a certification exam. 

I recommend the Career Step Medical Coder certification program. 

In less than a year, you can: 

• Complete the expert-designed program 
• Sit for the CPC or COC exam
• Take supplemental coursework that places you ahead of other entry-level candidates 

The career-focused training is completed at home and allows you to learn at a pace and schedule that works best for you. 

Plus, as both a student and eventual graduate, you receive one-on-one support throughout your career transformation. That includes individual help as a learner and guidance during your job search. 

How Much Can I Earn? 

As a freshly certified medical coder you can earn as much as $56,000 annually. However, most graduates average about $40,000 each year. Your location and specific certifications will play a role in your individual earnings. 

On a positive note, the BLS estimates career growth of 13% for medical coders through 2026. So, there will certainly be opportunities to earn more as you advance your career. 

Where Do Medical Coders Work? 

Medical coders work in just about any healthcare setting. This includes: 

• Doctor’s Offices
• Surgical Centers
• Hospitals 
• Clinics 

Any place that works with patients will employ a medical coder to manage records and insurance reimbursements. But, not all medical coders have to be physically present in these settings to work there.

Many hospitals and healthcare companies hire home-based medical coders. Instead of working in office, these same medical coders get to work out of their home offices and enjoy all the benefits associated with remote work. 

Which Companies Hire Remote Medical Coders? 

Medical coding is a remote-friendly career path. Now you’re probably wondering how to become a remote medical coder. 

Once you complete your online education and gain certification, you’re officially ready to begin your job search. Instead of hunting at traditional locations, ie., hospitals and doctors offices, you can look for remote options. 

10 Companies That Hire

1. Franciscan Health 
2. Vantage Healthcare
3. Precision Medical Billing 
4. Oxford Global Resources
5. Excite Health Partners
6. Inovalon   
7. R1
8. Health Information Associates
9. Aviacode  
10. Xtend Healthcare

Remember, getting a remote job is a little bit different than securing a traditional one. Not only does a remote job search take more time, you need to approach it differently. That’s where I can help. 

Remote Career Coaching Help

As a Certified Professional Career Coach (CPCC) I specialize in creating career campaigns for remote job seekers. Check out my remote career coaching services to find out how I can help you too! 

Happily, 

Ashlee Anderson, CPCC

P.S. This post contains affiliate links for Career Step. When you enroll in a Career Step course through my affiliate link, I receive a small commission. It costs you nothing. I only recommend products, businesses, and services I trust and know you’ll love. Learn more about my use of affiliate link by reading my disclosure statement.

The post How To Become A Remote Medical Coder: From Getting Started To Getting Hired appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

I mean, think about it, would you really feel 100% confident buying something from a business whose website is riddled with easy-to-spot errors?

Probably not.

It sends a message of laziness, as if they can’t be bothered to double check their work before it’s sent to consumers, like you.

So, to prevent embarrassing mistakes from going to print or being published, lots of businesses, bloggers, and brands seek the help of professional proofreaders. This helps ensure that everything that’s being seen by the public is free of mistakes and leaves a professional impression long after it’s read.

And this is good news for you if you’ve always thought you have what it takes to use your grammar-guru ways to earn extra cash — from anywhere! Today, you can easily start a proofreading hustle or service business you can use to get paid to read all day every day.

What Exactly Does A Proofreader Do Anyway?

Good question.

Proofreaders concern themselves with spotting errors within text. This can include typos, spelling mistakes, grammar issues, and missing punctuation.

Proofreaders are usually the last ones to read content before it is published, whether in print or online.

Essentially, they go through copy (what you call written text) with a fine-tooth comb to ensure it is 100% error free.

What Doesn’t A Proofreader Do?

A lot of people interchange the terms editing and proofreading, even though they are two very different phases of the writing process.

When editing a text, you look at big-picture stuff. You look at the overall structure of the writing, note poor word choices, disorganized paragraphs, and suggest changes that improve the overall readability. Editors make sure the flow of writing makes sense and content is cohesive from start to finish.

Proofreaders do not concern themselves with these big-picture issues. Instead, they are handed a document AFTER an editor goes over everything. The proofreader is looking for any kind of syntax, grammar, or spelling issues that may be present. A proofreader will not make suggestions to improve the flow, structure, or readability of a text. Period.

Would I Make A Good Proofreader?

It depends. Do you read a lot? If you answered, yes, chances are you’d make a pretty good proofreader too.

Those of us who read a lot, tend to notice errors in writing a lot more easily than non-readers. Plus, heavy readers typically have a natural understanding of grammar and can better spot misspelled words.

If you find yourself reading everything from the back of your conditioner to flyers posted around town and notice seemingly small errors, you’ve got the makings of a professional proofreader.

Who Uses Proofreaders?

Anyone who writes should hire a proofreader. Notice how I use the word should? Well, that’s because not everyone who publishes content uses proofreaders, even though they should.

Take a look at some of these super embarrassing grammar and spelling mistakes that could’ve been avoided by hiring a proofreader:

Apostrophes are important, right?

I’ve never heard of Amercia before. How about you?

I’d like to meet the genious who let this go to print

Even though we text, email, and use social media to communicate less formally with one another, there are still plenty of reasons for proper spelling and complete sentences. And that’s why many people from business to brands hire proofreaders, including:

• Authors
• Copywriters
• Bloggers
• Marketers
• Students
• Web content creators
• Social Media Marketers
• Brands
• Small businesses
• Publishers

As a professional proofreader for hire, you can market your services to any number of these writers or pick a more specific niche — the choice is yours. For example, my friend Phon, made a living proofreading romance novels (cool, right?).

What If I Don’t Have Professional Proofreading Experience?

That’s okay. Truth be told, most proofreaders get started with zero prior proofreading experience.

I mean, there aren’t really any colleges or universities that offer degrees in proofreading. Sure, an English degree or something in a similar field may sort of prepared you for proofreading professionally, it’s not the same thing as getting in there and proofreading in real life.

And really, the only way to gain experience is to start small and work your way up to bigger fish.

For example, there are a number of companies that hire proofreaders. Keep in mind, many of them pay low rates. But, if you really want to try your hand at proofreading before going all in, they’re great places to start. Think of those sites as paid proofreading internships.

The more you proofread, the better you’ll get. And the more experience you gain, the better your opportunities as a proofreader for hire. We’ve all got to start somewhere, right?

Proofreading Training

If you’re really set on the idea of proofreading professionally, I highly recommend obtaining some kind of training.

While it’s not necessary to have a formal education (I started proofreading on Upwork by accident!), having a blueprint to follow can make it super easy to become a paid proofreader quickly.

And the good news is, there are a couple of affordable online options that will prepare you to tackle the world of pro proofreading even when you’re a total newbie.

My personal fave? This free 45-minute workshop over at Proofread Anywhere.

This information-packed session will help you make sense of professional proofreading. It’s hosted by proofreading powerhouse Caitlyn Pyle who knows a thing or two about starting a proofreading hustle from scratch.

By the time it’s over, you’ll be able to determine whether or not you actually have what it takes to go pro.

So go ahead and sign up for the free workshop and get started. You won’t know if you’ve got the chops until you actually try!

Get Paid To Read (It’s Possible!)

If someone asked you, “How would you like to get paid to read?” You’d probably say, “Sign me up!”

And truth be told, you really can make a living as a proofreader. The demand for perfectly polished content and professional copy is made possible by proofreaders, like you.

Remember, you don’t need professional experience or formal education to get started.

But you do need to arm yourself with the knowledge needed to start from scratch and build a career.

Think you have what it takes to go pro? Did you find any errors in this post? Let me know in the comments below!

Happily,

Ashlee

P.S. This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my use of them by reading this disclosure statement.

The post How To Become A Proofreader (So You Can Finally Get Paid To Read All Day) appeared first on Work from Home Happiness.

Before I was a blogger, I was (still kind of am) a freelance writer. Before I was a freelance writer, I did a little transcription work. Specifically, I was a legal transcriptionist. But I didn’t set out to become a legal typist. In fact, I kinda fell into it.  “How?” you ask.

Well, after my son was born, I had to find a job that (1) paid well, (2) allowed me to stay home to take care of him, and (3) let me set my own schedule.

Sounds too good to be true, right? As it turns out, it wasn’t. So, what what was this oh-so flexible, bill-paying gig that allowed me to work and take care of a screaming newborn 24/7? Legal transcription.

Jump-start your legal transcription career with this FREE mini course. 

Legal Transcription Jobs

I did not have any professional transcription experience. But while browsing job openings on Indeed and Craigslist, I kept coming across several ads for legal transcriptionist jobs. As a former paralegal, my interest was piqued.

For starters, the rate of pay was actually livable. And to top it off, I could set my own schedule as long as I got my work turned in on time. While I never envisioned myself as a work-from-home typist, I was eager to land work as one. So, that’s exactly what I set off to do. But first things first, I needed to understand what it means to be a legal transcriptionist and whether it was right for me before jumping in as a beginner.

What Exactly is Legal Transcription and What Will I Do?

In its simplest form, transcription is the process of listening to recorded audio and typing out what is being said into a document. In the legal world, this provides a hard copy of conversations, interviews, depositions, and file notes that can be much more easily referenced versus its audio counterpart.

I can’t speak for all legal transcription jobs out there, but the files I was assigned were almost always strict verbatim. This means I had to type every single word that was said including stutters, false starts, and filler words (like, you know, um, uh, etc.)

After I finished a file, it was my job to go back through the audio and transcript one more time to check for accuracy. I always had to proofread and edit transcripts before turning them in — you will likely have to do this too! But don’t worry. Thanks to the transcription software you’ll use, you can easily speed up audio so you can finish this step at a much faster rate than what it took you to type it.

Equipment Needed

Speaking of transcription software, you will need a few things to get started as a legal transcriptionist. I ended up contracting with a few different companies during my run as a legal typist. Each one had different requirements for how things were done. But for the most part, there was a core group of programs and equipment needed to work.

You can purchase everything individually or opt for a transcription bundle. Either way, here are some of the things you will likely need as a legal typist:

Foot pedal

A foot pedal will help you control audio playback with your foot. You can stop, play, pause, fast forward and go back with the tap of your toe. This frees up your fingers to type and will help increase your speed and accuracy (which means you make more money!).

Express Scribe

You will likely be assigned audio files in a certain format like WAV or mP3. You’ll need special software that is compatible with your foot pedal so you can play files and transcribe them. The industry standard software is called Express Scribe. And there is a free version that works great! The problem is, the freebie version is compatible with only one type of foot pedal. The paid for or premium version works with about a dozen different foot pedals, giving you a lot of options.

Headset

I’m not gonna lie — when I first started as a legal transcriptionist, I bought the cheapest headset I could find. I figured, as long as I could hear the audio, there was no difference between a $10 model and a $30 one, right? Wrong!

I regretted this purchase about ten minutes into my first file. The audio sounded like it was playing in a tin can. The set itself was uncomfortable, leaving my ears sore after one use. Lesson learned — a quality headset can make all the difference in how well you hear audio and your comfort level while you type.

Word Processing

After you download an audio file, load it into Express Scribe and fire up your foot pedal, it’s time to start typing! To do this, you’re gonna need a word processing program. Every company I contracted with insisted I used Word.

However, I have seen other companies that are open to any number of word processing programs, as long as you can save your work in a specific format, i.e., .doc or .docx. Microsoft Word isn’t exactly cheap. So, if you don’t already have it, I wouldn’t rush out and buy it as you hunt for legal transcription jobs. Wait. You may be able to use a free version like Open Office to get the job done!

Where to Find Legal Transcription Jobs

Now that you know what you’ll need to get started, you’re probably pretty eager to start looking for jobs. As it turns out, there are several companies that readily hire legal typists. The best part? You don’t necessarily need any experience to get started.

These companies include:

Birch Creek Communications

In addition to legal transcription jobs, they also have opportunities to tackle files dealing with corporate, financial, and insurance matters. The rate of pay varies. For legal typing positions, you’ll earn anywhere from $0.75 to $1.75 per page.

Your schedule is entirely up to you — work as much or little as you’d like. Typically, work is available Monday through Friday with turnaround times averaging 2-3 days. You can learn more about Birch Creek Communication’s hiring process on their careers page.

Neal R. Gross 

Although based out of Washington D.C., Neal R. Gross opens up its virtual doors to legal transcriptionists throughout the U.S. And you don’t need previous experience to be considered here (woo hoo!). So what are the requirements? According to their hiring page:

If you type over 60 words per minute and need to work from home, you may be what we’re looking for in a legal transcriber. No transcription experience necessary, but you must be willing and able to work on overnight delivery. Timeliness is a must, as are excellent English language skills. Please apply only if you can transcribe at least 5 hours of audio per week.

If you consider yourself a grammar buff and have the dedication needed to meet tight deadlines, you can find success at Neal R. Gross — even if you’ve never typed professionally a day in your life. Learn more about their legal transcriptionist jobs and, whether or not you’ve got what it takes, directly on their employment page.

Transcription for Everyone

Built by transcriptionists for transcriptionists, Transcription for Everyone prides itself on offering legitimate home-based position for typists, including those interested in legal work.

According to their ads, Transcription for Everyone is open to working with complete beginners:

We also work with total beginners and provide on-the-job training. The more experienced you get, the faster you’ll be able to work and the higher the salary you will earn.

As another perk, they only promote from within So, while everyone starts out as a typist, there’s the potential to move up as an editor or manager. Head on over to their employment information page to learn more about the legal transcription jobs available.

Note: Transcription for Everyone does have their own training course available. You do not have to pay for this to be considered for employment!

Other Places to Look for Legal Transcription Jobs

I can’t say how often the above mentioned companies are adding typists to their teams. If you’re really ready to get started as a legal typist, it’s a good idea to expand your job search.

Indeed Jobs

Indeed is a good place to start. As a job search engine, Indeed finds and lists job leads from all kinds of employer sites and other niche job boards, housed conveniently in one locale. You can even create a custom job alert. This will let you know whenever new legal transcription jobs have been posted, without having to search the site all day every day — major time-saver.

Craigslist

Craigslist can also be a source of legitimate legal transcription jobs. I should know — it’s the very place I landed my first gig all those years ago! Check your local market for postings as well as the major ones (Los Angeles, New York, Austin, Atlanta, etc.) Often, you can find legal transcription jobs posted for home-based workers in your area as well as remote positions available nationwide.

As always, be wary of scams. Do a little research on the company posting the job lead. And be extra cautious if someone is asking you to pay money upfront for training, equipment or fees. While you will need some equipment to become a legal transcriptionist, you’ll pay for those items yourself, not to the company directly!

I’m Not Sure if This is Right for Me

I get it. Legal transcription is not for everyone. If you’re not a fast and accurate typist, you’ll likely struggle to keep up. If grammar isn’t your strong suit, you may find the nature of work challenging. You’ll also log many hours in front of your computer staring at your screen — straining on the eyes, hands and wrist.

But if you like a challenge, generally enjoy the subject of law, and consider yourself to be a fast-typing grammar buff, this might for you!

The best way to find out? Learn more about legal transcription jobs and whether or not it’s a good fit for you. Head over to Transcribe Anywhere. There, you can access a free legal transcription mini course. By the end of the four-day mini course, you’ll know a lot more about the industry and whether or not you should pursue legal transcription as a career.

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