In this video, I break down what’s actually happening in the transcription industry, why jobs feel harder to find, and what transcriptionists should be focusing on right now. If you’re feeling stuck, confused, or wondering whether to pivot, this will give you clarity and a real path forward.
Transcript
Let’s be honest. Finding transcription jobs in 2025 feels like looking for water in a desert. AI is taking over, job boards are quiet, and freelance platforms aren’t what they used to be.
So, is transcription dead?
Should you give up on this career?
I’m Evelyn. I’ve been a full-time freelance transcriptionist since 2017, and I’ve seen this industry evolve—from the good old days when jobs were everywhere… to now, where things look very different…
Today, I’ll be sharing what I’ve personally seen change in the industry. I’ll break down:
✅ What’s changed
✅ Why it’s changed
✅ And most importantly, HOW you can still thrive as a transcriptionist (or pivot if needed).
This is based on my own experience — so while it may not reflect everyone’s journey, I hope it gives you some insight into what transcription really looks like in 2025.
1. So… Is Transcription Dead?
The question most people are asking me is: Is Transcription Dead? The short answer is No. Long answer is transcription has changed. A lot. And yes, there are way fewer jobs than there used to be — especially general transcription jobs.
On one hand, Platforms like Speechpad, TranscribeMe, Scribie used to be wide open to new transcribers. Now? Most, if not all, will show you this message when you try to sign up: “We’re not accepting new applications at this time.”
A few years ago, it was fairly easy to apply and get started. You’d sign up, do a short test, and that was it. On freelance sites like Upwork, transcription gigs have dried up too.
Let me actually show you what I mean. I’m on my Upwork account right now, let’s search ‘transcription’. As you can see, not much going on. It’s mostly jobs asking for bilingual transcription or niche formats. Back in 2018 or 2019, this page used to be packed with general transcription jobs. So, yeah, the change is real.
2. What Changed?
1. AI Tools Got Really, Really Good
Back in 2017, AI transcription tools were… kinda useless. They’d miss accents completely, butcher names, and mess up punctuation. Fast forward to 2025, tools like Otter.ai, Trint, and Descript can produce near-perfect transcripts — especially if the audio is clear. And it’s not just dedicated transcription tools that have improved. Even everyday apps now come with built-in AI transcription features.
For example:
- WhatsApp can now transcribe voice notes.
- Zoom has live captions.
- YouTube auto-generates subtitles.
- Not to mention Podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify even offer free transcriptions.
So AI transcription isn’t just available. It’s baked into our everyday lives. Because of how good AI has become, clients are noticing too, and they are now using these tools because it’s faster and cheaper. I’ve even had clients email me saying they were switching to AI — simply because it’s cheaper.
Let me show you an example of one of those emails. This client wrote, ‘We’ve been granted access to a new transcription resource, which we’re currently evaluating…’ That’s the reality we’re in. The shift isn’t coming — it’s already here, and it’s happening fast.
Number two on what has changed is…
2. Transcription Is Now “Bundled.”
Another shift I’ve noticed is transcription is no longer seen as a standalone service. Clients now want multi-skilled freelancers. For instance, I had a client replace me with a virtual assistant who offered transcription as part of their admin services.
They told me: “I’ve hired a new assistant who offers transcription as part of her services. In the interest of consolidating work, I’ve decided to take her up on that service.” It’s not personal. It’s just how businesses are thinking now. They want people who can do more than just transcribe. They want flexibility, and they want to streamline. So yes, standalone transcription is fading. But hybrid roles? They’re rising.
So How Can You Stay Relevant in 2025
As you have seen, transcription isn’t dead. It’s evolving. And if you want to thrive, you’ll need to evolve too.
So here’s how you can stay ahead:
✅ Offer Hybrid Services
Don’t just transcribe. Add value. Offer things like captioning for YouTube videos, turn podcast episodes into blog posts. You can even learn a new skill like video editing. I mean, add value and make it easy for a client to choose you over AI. Clients are more likely to hire someone who can handle multiple parts of their workflow.
✅ Find Niche Markets
As I have demonstrated with my Upwork account, general transcription is drying up, but niches like legal transcription, medical, or captioning for accessibility are still in demand. These require extra training, but they pay better, and AI has a tougher time replacing humans in those roles due to accuracy and regulation.
✅ Use AI to Your Advantage
Instead of fighting AI, use it. While AI tools have advanced, they still struggle with complex audio, multiple speakers, and heavy accents. Human transcriptionists are essential for editing and quality control, ensuring the accuracy of transcripts. That means these transcription tools can help you transcribe faster, and you can still charge for the human polish for things like speaker identification, fixing AI errors, formatting. Clients still need that.
✅ Don’t Rely on One Platform
If you’re only checking transcription job sites, you’re leaving money on the table. Reach out to potential clients directly. For example, you can reach out to content creators like podcasters or YouTubers directly. If you’d like me to share how I pitch to my direct clients, let me know in the comments below.
So, is transcription dead in 2025? No. But it’s definitely different. The trick is not to cling to what worked in 2017. The trick is to adapt. Diversify your skills, embrace AI, and go where the demand is. That’s what I had for today. If this video helped you, please like and subscribe—it really supports the channel.
And if you want more real talk about freelancing, transcription, and making money online, go ahead and subscribe. I’ve got more coming soon. Also, I’d like to hear from you: Are you still working in transcription in 2025? How’s it going? Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next one!
