Considerations Before Starting A Computer Business

Guest Post by Lisa Hendrickson, owner of Call That Girl, 15 years experience of supporting client computer issues.

For some people, working in the corporate world as IT support, gives them enough foundation to start up a business. Others who are the friend/neighborhood tech feel they have what it takes to start up a repair shop. Some are self taught, some are book educated. No matter what your background is, you have to be sure of a few things before you go into business for yourself. Here are a few tips to read before considering going on your own.


If you are new to ownership, these may also be somewhat handy! Not all computer repair technicians have the entrepreneur spirit. Not all can go full-time without doing that and their full-time jobs. Not all can be absolutely broke and having the times of their lives. I write for you a list of things that I had to learn on my own, with no books to guide me. There will be more additions as time goes by, but here is a good start for you newbies out there. Some are questions you should ask yourself and some are things you really need to consider before starting up.

• Are you working full-time somewhere and are starting up a side business? (As one who has been there, it’s tough to cut the money cord, you will never go on your own if you don’t!)
• Are you stopping all other employment opportunities to focus on your business in a full-time capacity? (due to getting let go, laid off or fired or just fed up? Good time to go on your own!!!)
• Are you prepared for this? Financially or emotionally? (If you have unemployment, then this is a great time to go on your own, if you have the money to go on your own, be careful how you spend money initially!)
• Do you have the entrepreneur spirit to do it all? (OMG, you have to have it or hire it out. I see so many wannabe’s who fail at the business end of things!)
• Are you an awesome at customer service? (You are now the everything of your company, keeping clients happy is the key to referrals, answer all calls and emails, and don’t ever leave anyone hanging)
• Are you going to work out of your house or lease a space? (I didn’t like clients at my house, so I opted for an office after a year of doing that)
• You plan on getting insurance right? (Do it, it’s so cheap and worth the peace of mind)
• What is your marketing plan? (Is it good enough to keep you busy while you have the 1-2 jobs going on?)
• Are you networked? What is your networking plan? (creating a good online or face to face networking plan is the key to getting clients)
• Do you have proper work orders for clients to fill out? (Please make one or buy Bryce’s to get going, this adds a professional image to your business!)
• Do you have a good website, domain, email? (Very important to prove you are not a craigslist scam or a neighborhood kid)
• Do you have good branding? (get a logo done asap to match your name of the business)

Now, the first 5 months I was on my own were very lonely and somewhat scary. I had no one else to work with me, I was totally alone almost every day and no clients either. I kept my head up though and did everything I could do to find things to do. Networking events, luncheons, talked to competitors to be referring partners and created numerous marketing and advertising plans. It was very daunting to be honest. Use Technibble members as your new co-workers, I have certainly enjoyed being a member so far, great group of helpful folks here.

Lisa Hendrickson, owner of Call that girl, 15 years experience of supporting client computer issues. New member to Technibble.com, but is very fond of writing to help others. Her articles will include topics of business, marketing, advertising, client support and social media. Be sure to read her posts and check out her blog at http://www.callthatgirl.biz

GET THE FREE GUIDE

Learn the Basics of Starting a Computer Repair Business!

In this guide you can find out everything from the essential skills you need to start a computer repair business, how to get set up, set your pricing and avoid common beginner mistakes.

Download The Guide