I had the opportunity to interview Loretta Oliver, author of Transcription Crash Course. Loretta has 7 years experience in freelance transcription and has been kind enough to answer a few questions for me.
Why did you decide to start a transcription business?
When I first got into transcription it was completely by accident. I was doing document coding at the time and a friend asked for my help with some overflow transcription work. I figured sure, no problem. Then there was more and I did that, and I found myself really enjoying the work. Then I started doing files for an insurance company on a regular basis and I did that as a second income part time arrangement for a few years before I started taking on more transcription work.
In all honesty, I really enjoyed it and I still do. Even in the few years I was operating as a general virtual assistant I found myself doing more transcription than anything else, so I eventually made that focus. I guess you could say that transcription work just sort of called out to me.
What advice would you give to someone who is starting out?
Be patient, especially if you’re freelancing. It takes time to build a client base and build those relationships.
What challenges have you had to overcome?
The first and biggest challenge that smacked me around was time management. I think that’s probably true for anyone when they start a business from home though. You really have to focus and get those routines down and learn how to best manage your time to meet deadlines. In the early stages I overbooked myself a lot and then found myself stressed and working a lot of hours per day. I learned that lesson in scheduling really quickly!
What made you decide to write Transcription Crash Course?
A lot of folks were asking me how to get started, what programs I used, where I found clients, etc… so one night I decided I should just write it down and save it to share with people. The next thing I know I had written a lot more than I realized I even knew. So, I packaged it up with some great bonuses and sent it out into the world. If it helps even a few people I’ll be very happy with that.
Where can we find you online?
You can find me in a few places…..
Loretta Oliver
Facebook
TCC’s Facebook Fanpage
Twitter
I have read Transcription Crash Course and Loretta keeps things straight and to the point, no unnecessary fluff! If you are still trying to figure out what you want to do from home, give transcription a try. It is a business that can be started with little, if any, start-up costs and there is always a need.
About Angie
Thanks for the info… I have a degree in Medical Office Management and worked with a Psychiatrist for many years, transcribing psych evaluations. I didn’t know this was a business I could get into virtually & don’t know if it’s close to the same thing as what I did there… I should look into it more!
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Thank you for the information, I’m in the process of starting my business as a Freelance VA, I worked in the compacity of an Office Manager/Administrative Assistant in the Home Care field, Processing 485′s which are doctor orders and Medical Coding and Billing was also a main part of my job. I worked in that field for 5yrs. I’m striving to start my homebased business, looking for info and possible mentors. This information was excellent!
Sherrice Johnson
Twitter: thewahwife
says:
You are welcome, Sherrice. Thanks for stopping by, and best of luck in your new business!