Updated September 6, 2024.
One site to use if you want to break into Transcription is Tigerfish, a company that has been around since 1989. They do not require that you've had any previous transcription experience to get started, although they do ask you to take a test first before you're “in.”
Please note that they may or may not be actively recruiting workers at this time, although the employment page is always up on their website.
First – what is transcription?
If you don't know what transcription is, basically you are listening to an audio file and typing out what you hear.
This isn't as easy as it sounds. You need to have a good ear and be able to pay very close attention to detail.
Also, different companies have their own specific guidelines and styles you must follow.
Transcription is a potentially lucrative way to earn a living from home, plus it's possible to break into general transcription without any experience.
However, getting in some general transcription training before applying may help your chances of landing a better-paying job.
How much does Tigerfish pay?
Tigerfish doesn't list their pay rate publicly, but reports I've seen online indicate it's fairly low when compared with transcription companies that do require experience.
Does Tigerfish hire outside the US?
Not at this time. They only hire people who are legal United States citizens.
What are the technical requirements to apply at Tigerfish?
You need high speed internet, a Windows based computer, and a phone number where they can reach you. Additionally, you'll have to download a free program called Express Scribe to take the test.
If you're accepted, Tigerfish explains you'll need to buy Start Stops Power Play for Windows Media to do the actual work.
What does the test involve?
Tigerfish asks that you download and read their style guide prior to testing.
Then, you have to listen to and transcribe three different audio files. The company has specific instructions on exactly how to do this on their employment page.
When you're done, you email the files to them along and indicate how long it took to transcribe each one.
How long does it take to hear back from Tigerfish?
Tigerfish claims to get tons of emails, and for this reason it might take a little while to hear back (if you do at all). So applying and receiving an immediate response isn't likely.
If several months go by and still nothing, it may be worth trying again. I'd recommend not limiting yourself to just Tigerfish, though. There are MANY other transcription companies that hire remote workers you could also consider doing work for.
And because these companies have you working as an independent contractor in most cases, you can certainly do work for more than one.
What do people say about Tigerfish?
I have so far read nothing negative about them, other than that some people apply and don't hear back.
There is one review of them on Glassdoor, and it is positive.
Do you want to apply?
Visit the Tigerfish employment page here and follow the test directions to start.
Want to Know More About Work at Home Transcription and How to Get Started?
If you've read the above reasons for getting into transcription as a work at home career and you're thirsty for more information, I recommend Janet Shaugnessy's FREE transcription training workshop!
Janet has been in the transcription business for over 16 years now.
This explores how to build a business using your typing, writing, and editing skills.
You'll learn how much you can earn, where the work comes from, how to determine if you are cut out for it, and a lot more.
GO HERE TO CHECK IT OUT!
Anna Thurman is a work at home blogger and mom of two. She has been researching and reviewing remote jobs for over 14 years. Her findings are published weekly here at Real Ways to Earn.