How To: Offer Audio Typing as a service
If you are hoping to step into the world of audio typing, we have everything you ever wanted to know about dictation and transcription.
SVA put together the advice of several of the UK’s most prolific virtual assistants and asked them for their top tips.
- How fast do you need to be?
- What software to use?
- What equipment do I need?
- What sort of clients use this service?
- How do I transfer large files?
Buy the SVA Guide to Audio Typing
Price: £25
Find out at: http://store.payloadz.com/go?id=43837
I am just not sure what to do next; many years ago, I did lots of audio typing, including some surveying and legal work. Just recently I worked as a PA for the Chief Judge in an Employment Tribunals office, typing lots of of Judgments, Orders, etc. I was amazed to find my typing speed is still very fast. I already have a footpad and the Scribe download but not sure what my next move should be. All opinions greatfully received!
Hi Sisily
Not an uncommon question! The guide includes how to get your clients and what they will be looking for.
Caroline
Hi Sisily,
There are two ways to go:
1) Contact other VAs as they may outsource transcription jobs to skilled colleagues — as we sometimes do at Freelancealot.
2) Get yourself a website and start marketing yourself. Let colleagues and previous employers know you’re available for freelance work. Think of the industries (real estate, law firms, universities, etc.) in your area that may need a transcriptionist and send them a letter introducing your service — yes, I said letter, not email. Then go global. 🙂
You’ve already got the right equipment, and you already have transcription experience — what you need is to find clients. These don’t drop out of the sky (very often) so you need to be prepared to be proactive on that front.
I hope this was helpful, and wish you success in your new venture.
Cheers,
Tracy Shorrock
Partner
Freelancealot.co.uk
My niche is Audio Transcription and I have been offering this service for the past five years since setting up my business and my typing speed is in excess of 100wpm.
When I first started as a VA I wasn’t sure what equipment I needed as in my employed position this was all provided. I then purchased the guide above and I haven’t looked back since.
Not only do I have my own audio transcription clients but other VAs although outsource their transcription to me as well.
Hello Charlotte,
Could you explain to me how you actually obtain the recording from the client? How is this done if they are of the old school variety and use a dictaphone?
Thanks
Jody
Hi Jody
Dictaphones are now digital and will connect to client’s computers in order to send audio files via email.
I noticed you bought the guide – it really is very comprehensive about how to get started offering this service, but if you have any problems, just let me know.
Caroline
Hello All
Thanks for the replies re my recent audio transcription query.
Regards,
Sisily Alexander