A successful computer repair business has more than technical savvy.
If you plan to start your own computer repair company, you have the advantage of a huge market. Tens of millions of personal computers are sold annually in the United States, and many of them, at some time or another during their use, will need repair. To start a successful computer repair company, you must combine your technical skills with diligent marketing.
Instructions
Technological skills and business skills
1. Obtain academic and other credentials, such as Microsoft certification, for computer skills. While degrees in computer technology, business or related fields are not essential to your success, such credentials can help customers feel confident in your ability until you develop a good reputation of quality service.
2. Acquire any business license required to operate in your city, county or state. Government websites generally list the necessary requirements and supply phone numbers to call for further information. For example, the website for the state of Florida lists all occupations that require state licensing. The business.gov website provides a tool that enables you to get a listing of federal, state and local permits, licenses, and registrations you'll need to run a business." Visit the IRS website for information on federal filings, and your state's tax agency website for information on state filings. Consider acquiring general liability insurance as well.
3. Be sure you have access to a reliable distributor of computer components. A computer repair business must often obtain replacements for electronic parts that are beyond salvaging. Evaluate both the distributor's prices and the level of customer service. If a replacement part does not function as expected, you want to be working with a vendor that is willing to replace the replacement.
4. Offer your services at a rate competitive with other computer repair services in your area. For example, rates will be higher in Manhattan, N.Y., than Boise, Idaho. If you wish, charge a bit less than your competitors to get your foot in the door. But do not charge too much less, or prospective customers may wonder whether it's because your work is inferior.
5. Guarantee free follow-up repair or a full refund if something goes wrong with your repair within a certain period of time. Your own confidence in your work will inspire confidence in prospective customers. There is little downside if you are honest about what you can fix.
6. Make house calls. If established computer repair services in your area always require customers to bring their computers into a shop, you'll gain a competitive edge by being willing to make the trip. Add a reasonable surcharge to accommodate the time and expense of travel.
7. Promote your business. Solicit testimonials of satisfied customers. Use online ads, fliers and casual conversation to alert local businesses and residents that you're in business. Target firms big enough to have computer systems, but small enough that they lack their own information technology departments. Jason Kaufman of Computer Troubleshooters told Entrepreneur.com that he puts in five to 10 hours a week in promotion, arguing that you should go door-to-door if necessary to increase the visibility of your business.
8. Keep your knowledge of computers current through coursework, seminars and other resources. Subscribe to computer magazines, blogs and e-letters to learn what's new and what kinds of problems users are having with their computers.
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