Becoming an official reporter in the courthouse can be scary - and exciting. This a completely different way of working than freelance but it can be really great (and comforting) for people who thrive in an environment where they know what to expect - including a steady paycheck and insurance!
But when you start working at the courthouse, the volume and type of work you're going to be doing will be different and they way you organize your work will go a long way to helping you become exceptionally efficient in transcript location and management.
Consider naming protocols, calendaring, specialized macros, backup situations. Check with colleagues to see what works for them. Enjoy your new position and keep rocking the realtime!
You all know I love giving back... and I've been speaking at the local law school for many years now, sharing with the students who will be future litigators how they can work WITH court reporters to create a truly excellent record.
I love doing this - and if you have the chance, please consider doing it in your area. The "baby" lawyers appreciated it and the next generation of court reporters will too!
We all love rituals - girls nights, massages, regular workouts... but what about our working rituals?
Do you have any that ease you into your productivity? Perhaps alleviate any anxiety?
Our job as a stenographer (or captioners) is filled with stressors and if we can develop rituals for ourselves to help limit those stresses, think how healthy, happy, and productive we can become?!
I love this profession... and I love sharing it. Wherever you are, in whatever period in your career you find yourself, be an amazing advocate! Introduce people to this incredible opportunity for someone who loves English, the law, computers, learning... Be the little pebble that creates the ripple in the pond!