How Kim Balances Homeschooling with Working as a Part-Time Legal Transcriptionist

success interviews Mar 19, 2024

A lot of moms want to be able to stay at home with their children and homeschool. But homeschooling doesn’t come cheap. Resources like curriculum, books, outings, and school supplies cost money. Starting a part-time business like transcription can really help out with those expenses.

Kim’s work as a part-time legal transcriptionist helps her cover those expenses while still allowing her enough time to homeschool her son. Check out her story below!

Q: Hi, Kim! Can you tell us a little about your background? What did your life look like before TA?

I spent almost 20 years working in the corporate world in a variety of managerial roles and levels of responsibility. I have done everything from business consulting to auditing to safety to marketing. I earned my MBA and Six Sigma certification along the way. I left the rat race five years ago to homeschool my son.

Q: Those are some impressive qualifications. When did you start doing transcription, and what made you decide to learn it?

I started looking for something to do from home that would let me earn a little money to pay for curriculum and outings a couple of years ago. Someone mentioned transcription and it sounded like something I could do, so I started researching classes. Nothing really spoke to me until I saw your legal transcription class. I helped put my husband through law school, so I already speak that language. It seemed like a perfect fit.

Q: I’m so glad you found us! What was the most challenging part of getting started?

Just taking that first step was the hardest. It’s exciting and scary at the same time.

Q: The first step is the hardest, but you never know where it will lead you. What have been the most valuable things you learned during the course?

The grammar skills I learned have been invaluable. The practice files can be challenging but working through them slowly has prepared me for anything clients have thrown at me.

Q: The practice files are hard for a reason. I want my students to be prepared for anything they might come across in the real world! How long did it take you to find your first client? How many clients do you have now?

I am starting slowly. I was approached by three vendors within a week of graduating. I am working for two of them right now on a very part-time basis as I finish my website, resume, and social media profiles. Working for them has proven that the class prepared me for real-world work. I am now realizing I can work for my own clients and have even more earning potential.

Q: How long did it take you to recoup the cost of the course?

Keep in mind I am working very part-time as I balance homeschool and working. I graduated in May and received the payment that pays off the course and puts a little bit extra in my pocket in August. I am very happy with my progress so far.

Q: What advice would you give anyone thinking about becoming a transcriptionist? Is it worth the money for training?

The training has been invaluable. I knew I could type, but there is more to being a transcriptionist than just typing. Having my certificate has given me instant credibility.

Q: What do you think it takes to be a GOOD transcriptionist? How about a GREAT one?

To be a good transcriptionist you need to be accurate and meet your deadlines.  To be a great one you need to be able to adjust to the needs of different clients. We can advise them of the right way to do things, but at the end of the day, it’s their decision how it gets done. Being able to make those adjustments will set you apart from the competition.

Q: So true. The client’s preferences must come first! What’s your favorite thing about being a part-time legal transcriptionist? What about your least favorite?

I enjoy the variety of the files I am transcribing. Transcription gives me the freedom to be home with my son and still earn a little money. I may be transcribing or editing at baseball practice or a lesson (like I am now), but I still get to be there. As far as my least favorite, it will be nice to have my own clients rather than working for someone else.

Q: Variety is the spice of life! What does a typical day look like for you? Anything else you’d like to share?

I start my day by making sure I have everything ready for my son’s school for the day. We do the teacher-led work first and then I spend the majority of the afternoon and evening on my client files.

Our Take

I’m SO happy that transcription is allowing Kim to earn extra money to cover her expenses and giving her the freedom to stay home with her son. It just shows that you don’t have to sacrifice time with your family when you work from home. You just need to find the balance that works for you.

Your Turn

Are you looking for a way to cover homeschooling expenses or earn a little bit of money so that you can stay home with your kids? Sign up for my free 7-day intro course and find out if legal transcription is right for you.

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