Start an online transcription and typing service

Researchers, journalists, podcasters, small businesses, charities, coaches and professionals who record meetings or dictate their work.

Charge per audio minute or per hour of recording, with higher rates for poor audio, several speakers, technical subjects or quick turnaround. Ongoing clients can give regular repeat work.

• Fast, accurate typing
• Good listening and attention to detail
• Proofreading and formatting
• Handling confidential material sensibly

• Recordings often contain personal or sensitive information, so check your data protection duties and whether you need to register with the ICO
• Agree how files are sent, stored and deleted, and use secure sharing tools
• Consider professional indemnity insurance, especially for legal, medical or research work
• Automatic speech-to-text tools are lowering prices for simple jobs, so consider specialising in difficult audio or specific subjects
• Long sessions at a keyboard can strain wrists and eyes, so plan breaks and set up your workspace carefully

Startup costs are typically around £100 to £900, depending on the computer, headphones, software and any foot pedal you choose. These are estimates, so start with the essentials and upgrade as your client work grows.

Monthly revenue is typically around £200 to £2,000, depending on your hours, typing speed, subject focus and the clients you win. These are estimates, and automatic speech-to-text tools are lowering prices for simple jobs, so consider specialising.

Recordings often contain sensitive information, so check your data protection duties and whether you need to register with the ICO. Agree how files are sent, stored and deleted, and consider professional indemnity insurance, especially for legal, medical or research work.