This General Transcriptionist Found Her First Client in Four Days

Even though Nancy was a retired business owner, she needed something that would allow her the freedom and flexibility to work part-time. Something to bring in some extra money while still allowing her to enjoy her retirement.

Insert Transcribe Anywhere!

And, upon graduating from the course, she found her first client in only FOUR DAYS.

Seriously! Four days, folks. Check out Nancy's full story on becoming a general transcriptionist below!

Q: Hi, Nancy! Can you share with us a little about your background? What did your life look like before Transcribe Anywhere?

My husband and I were franchisees for two major cookie franchises for over 20 years, so we were in a mall environment selling cookies. In January 2017 we basically retired, but I felt I still needed something else to do part-time.

Q: Mmm... cookies! That might have been a hard business to leave ;-) So when did you start doing general transcription, and what made you decide to learn it?

Right out of college, I had a couple of different jobs that required transcribing audio tapes. One of those jobs was doing that in Spanish. I remembered the sense of accomplishment that came with that. Then, a couple of years ago, while on vacation, I met and visited with a lady whose job was medical transcription. Her job piqued my interest in revisiting transcription, and, once retired, I decided to look into Janet’s GT course.

Q: I love that your journey started right after college! You never know where life will take you sometimes. What was the most challenging part for you in getting started?

I think the most challenging part of getting started was making the mental commitment to take the course and trusting myself to follow it through to the end.

Q: I think a lot of students can relate to that self-doubt. Good for you for pushing through! What have been the most valuable things you learned during the course?

I have learned that I can take some skills I already had, sharpen them with hard work and determination, and push myself to the finish line. The course is very thorough, and the satisfaction I gained by completing the course and gaining employment was very empowering.

Q: How long did it take you to find your first client? 

I received my certificate of achievement on a Monday, and I was working within four days.

Q: Wow! That is beyond impressive. What advice would you give anyone thinking about becoming a general transcriptionist? Is it worth the money for training?

I would suggest talking to people who are transcriptionists, if at all possible. Also, learn all you can about transcription. I was concerned about the possibility of scams, but there really are lots of legitimate opportunities, and the amount of work is plentiful. I have had as much work as I can handle since my first day as a contractor. Getting an accreditation, such as Transcribe Anywhere, is definitely worth the time and money. It shows you are serious about your work and that you can be depended on to know your stuff.

Q: In your opinion, what do you think it takes to be a GOOD transcriptionist? How about a GREAT one?

A good transcriptionist must be a self-starter, first and foremost. He or she must have a dedicated, quiet work place and must be able to type relatively quickly, although typing speed is by no means the be-all and end-all. A good ear and patience are two more crucial things to possess.

To be great at transcription, you also must have the desire to be the very best at what you do. You must be thorough, you must be a great manager of time, and you must be able to research information regarding your transcription subject matter.

Q: I completely agree! What’s your favorite thing about being a general transcriptionist? What about your least favorite?

My favorite things about being a transcriptionist are that I have flexibility with my schedule, and I love doing so from home. I can work as I need to in order to still have the freedom to be with family and friends. My least favorite thing? Not a thing! Transcription fits my life perfectly. I’m enjoying every aspect of my new endeavor.

Q: What does a typical day look like for you? Anything else you’d like to share?

My typical day starts with a workout at my local gym. I’m back at home and ready to work by 10:00 a.m. I usually break for lunch around 1:00 and then finish up around 5:00. I’ll also throw in a 10- to 15-minute break as needed. Depending on how much I want to make, I’ll work four, five, or even six days a week. The beauty of it is that it’s up to me how much I work.

I am very thankful to Janet and her online course for helping me to achieve my goal to become a transcriptionist. I believe if working from home has been on your mind, consider transcription. Do your due diligence and go for it!

Our Take

I'm so impressed with Nancy's go-getter attitude and all-around positive mindset! She could have retired and left it at that, but instead she learned a new skill and is now bringing in income and working -- all on her schedule. You can't beat the work-at-home lifestyle!

Your Turn

Were you inspired by Nancy's story? Do you have any questions for her? Leave her a comment below! And be sure to sign up for the free mini-course if you want to learn more about transcription.