As I’ve mentioned before, I started transcribing (quite by accident) on Scribie.com and it was a good way to get an entry into the transcription world. However, I needed to broaden my horizons. And through a Google search, I discovered TranscribeMe! at www.transcribeme.com.
TranscribeMe! has a standard entry test that you need to complete before you are accepted as a transcriber on their platform. They have a more stringent test than Scribie.com but unlike Scribie, their test is the same for everyone. They also have a style guide which you have to learn before starting the test.
The rates at TranscribeMe! is much higher than at scribie.com and the files are shorter. Also, Scribie pays at an incremental rate, whereas TranscribeMe! pays a standard rate.
Another benefit of working for TranscribeMe! is that they have a community of other transcribers who offer support and advice on Yammer. The supervisors and managers at TranscribeMe are also very hands-on, compared to Scribie or other online transcription companies.
So far I’ve found no downside to TranscribeMe!
What do you’ll need to work on the TranscribeMe! platform? A laptop/computer, Paypal account, good internet connection – as you’ll work online – good headset/ headphones, a pedal (optional) and their in-house style guide. Of course, you’ll need to pass their standard transcription exam first to get selected to be a transcriber.
Once you’ve been accepted, you can take accent (Australian, New Zealand, British English, etc.) exams. When you’ve completed 100 files, you can take their QA exam to increase your access to more work. At TranscribeMe! the better you are as a transciber or a QA the more access you have to work.
So far I’ve completed the Aussie, Kiwi, British English and QA exams and, generally, worked when I’ve been in between local jobs. In my next blogpost I will give some more information on sourcing local, South African, transcription jobs. It hasn’t been as easy as I have hoped. Having online work at TranscribeMe! plugs the gap though.
