Transcriptionist wanted: At least two years of experience; Transcriptionist needed: At least three years of experience.

It's frustrating when all you hear is how much experience you need. As a new Medical Transciptionist I have run into this problem far too often. How do you get experience unless someone is willing to hire you? Some companies may give you a shot at the entry exam, only to barely scrap by; even when the score is still a worthy one. There aren't many that will hire a newbie; many transcriptionists have excellent training but only few make it in the door. What's a freshly trained MT to do? Well, there are a few mentoring programs out there but not enough. I propose a suggestion; more mentoring programs implemented into Medical Transcriptionist companies.

Programs should be put in place to help newbies.

Let them start with simple reports (or whatever fits them at the time).

• Evaluate their progress and help them move into more difficult reports as they continue in confidence and skills.
• Every certified and skilled transcriptionist should be given a chance to work and hone his or her skills; pay can commensurate.

Lets help everyone win and put an end to needing two or three years’ experience (except for maybe a few companies who want only to deal with heavy transcribing) and that’s another story.