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What does a Freelance Typist do?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A freelance typist is a typist who works independently, taking in project work as it becomes available. Computers are in much more widespread use, resulting in less of a demand for freelance typists than there once was, as people can do their own typing, but these professionals can still fill a valuable niche. Freelance typists generally have very high words per minute and accuracy rates, and they may have additional training which allows them to take on special types of jobs, such as transcriptions of medical files.

Some freelance typists work at home, taking on typing work which can include manuscript preparation, typing of academic papers, and data entry. Others work in offices, taking temporary positions to fulfill typing needs like data entry in an office environment. Some freelance typists have established relationships with a number of repeat clients whom they rely upon for business, while others are constantly working with new clients. A freelance typist is usually always on the lookout for new clients and connections.

Freelance typists transcribe written material for businesses and individuals on a contract by contract basis.
Freelance typists transcribe written material for businesses and individuals on a contract by contract basis.

Like other forms of freelance work, freelance typing can be a challenging career. A freelance typist must be self-motivated and able to establish a workable schedule if he or she works at home. Freelance typists also have to be aggressive about finding jobs, using social networks, advertising, and other tools to ensure that they have a consistent flow of work. Freelance typist jobs can sometimes be hard to find, because potential employers do not always know where to look or advertise, and it helps to have connections such as clients who will make recommendations to other potential clients.

Freelance typist jobs are often sought after because they typically allow people to work from home.
Freelance typist jobs are often sought after because they typically allow people to work from home.

Someone who wants to work as a freelance typist may want to get a typing certification attesting to typing skills. With this certification, a freelancer can apply for typist job openings, and promote him or herself to companies which may require typing services. It may also help to start out at a temp agency which will guarantee steady employment before striking out independently as a freelancer.

Online typists might create documents for busy clients.
Online typists might create documents for busy clients.

A variety of Internet companies offer assistance to people who are interested in freelance typing and work from home jobs. People should be careful about entering into arrangements with such companies. While some are entirely legitimate, others are scams. Some signs that a company may be a scam include fees to join, fees for proprietary software, and lack of contact information. Before making a commitment to join a company which offers to connect freelance typists with clients, it can be a good idea to check with a business rating organization to get more information about the company in question.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a PracticalAdultInsights researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a PracticalAdultInsights researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

sunshined

I have always heard that if a job is legitimate you should not have to give them any money to get a job with them. This is especially true with all the internet jobs posted online. There are many jobs that you can do from home, such as typing and data entry jobs for legitimate companies.

A virtual assistant is another way to find work at home jobs that will utilize your typing and office skills. All your work is done from home, and your communication is done online as well. You work like an office assistant does in an office, except you perform all your duties from home.

LisaLou

If you are interested in working as a freelance typist, starting out at a temp agency can be a way to get your foot in the door. There are many companies that do offer work at home jobs, but many times it helps if you are already working for the company in some way.

As the internet continues to change the workplace, data entry and typing jobs from home will continue to grow. For many local companies that offer this type of work, the majority of work is done from home. Usually you have to go in to the office one day a week for meetings and paperwork. This is still much better than making the drive 5 days a week.

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    • Freelance typists transcribe written material for businesses and individuals on a contract by contract basis.
      By: taa22
      Freelance typists transcribe written material for businesses and individuals on a contract by contract basis.
    • Freelance typist jobs are often sought after because they typically allow people to work from home.
      By: AntonioDiaz
      Freelance typist jobs are often sought after because they typically allow people to work from home.
    • Online typists might create documents for busy clients.
      By: V&P Photo Studio
      Online typists might create documents for busy clients.