Ajay Prasad
8/18/2012
Having a work-at-home career as a transcriptionist has its benefits and advantages, but in order to really be successful, the work-at-home job requires organization, reliability, discipline, and a well-equipped home office.
To set up your home office to be a transcriptionist, follow a few basic steps to ensure you have everything you need from the start to create a comfortable and efficient atmosphere.
Hardware: Whether you prefer a tower, notebook, or laptop, a computer with ample storage space and a high-speed Internet connection is vital. It is a good idea to have a backup computer should your main computer crash. Purchase a combination printer, scanner, copier, and fax machine as well.
Software: You will need top-of-the-line word processing software, transcription software, accounting software to track income and expenses, and security software to ensure the safety of the information on your computer.
Transcription Equipment: The following items are essential for a well-equipped home office:
Furniture and Accessories: If you want to be efficient, you need to be comfortable. It’s a good idea to look into getting an ergonomic desk and chair, ergonomic keyboard, proper lighting to prevent eyestrain, file cabinet, desk trays for organization, file folders, an easily accessible phone, and a phone message service.
Miscellaneous: It's important to have access to a dictionary and reference resources for the type of transcription you will be doing to check the spelling. An online subscription or hard copy of the AP style guide covers grammar and punctuation. Also, be sure to have the proper business license and check with your city to determine if running a business from your home requires an additional license.
Read Also: Work At Home Transcription Offers a Very Rewarding Salary
