Age 16 Computer Repair Business How To Setup?

One thought on “Age 16 Computer Repair Business How To Setup?”

1. U_S_S_Enterprise says:

   May 30, 2010 at 12:00 am

   How much should you charge?
   That depends.

   You could go two ways. Fixed rate, i.e. replace broken hard-drive X amount, reinstall windows and drivers, Y amount.
   Or, you could charge an hourly rate.

   One thing – hardware issues are usually easier and quicker solved – so for those you might want to consider a fixed rate.
   Software issues are usually longer, so an hourly rate there could be beneficial.

   How to look professional – that`s a tough one.
   – Have clean clothes, and whole clothes (not the ripped jeans look).
   – Make sure you have your own set of software (copies, not originals) with you.
   – Get a decent toolkit.
   – Get clone tools (CloneZilla, HiRens), and have basic anti-virus and spyware programs with you on a USB key (latest versions).
   – Mind your language. You are dealing with a customer, not a friend, so a bit more formality in the language should be used.
   – If you take spare parts, or have to be inside the PC, use anti-static gloves/mat etc. Even if you do not strictly need it, it looks as if you know what you are doing 🙂

   How to get the word out?
   – Create a company look and stick with it. Make sure you are happy with the look before comitting to it (this also deals with being professional). Get paper, cards and labels in the same design (you might want to take a look at VistaPrint to get a general idea – not necesarily order with them)
   – Use simple A4 posters, and advertise your services. Depending on rules, the supermarket would be a good place to start (lots of people come there daily)

   Other tips:
   – Make sure you deliver quality. Word of mouth is worth more than a costly advertising campaign.
   – Check what other companies charge for their services. Get below that a little bit (not too much, that would appear fishy – too cheap).
   – Keep up to date. Skills, software, knowledge – vital in that business.
   – Don`t be afraid to be honest. If a customer calls for an issue you do not know anything about – say so. Explain that you are willing to try, and will only charge them if you fix it. That way, you get expirience for free with a new thing, and a happy customer even if you do not manage to fix it (cause he does not have to pay!)
   – Make sure you know names, addresses of companies that might be able to fix the very complex issues. Explaining to a customer "I do not know how to do this myself, but i can recommend so-and-so" also gives a good impression.

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