The Big LITTLE Difference in Laptops

[rai01]

Hi guys! I'm a computer tech that just recently got a job in sales. I have this problem... I know all about computer specifications and such but the only thing I'm having problems with is how do you compare 2 different brands of laptops when most of their tech specs. are the same?

I know one might say that sony is a good entertainment machine as well as HP laptops... and then there's Toshiba which one might say they are more durable and rugged types of laptops basically because of their thickness. And then comes Dell and Gateway.... I'm not implying that what i said describing the brands are correct.

I know that these companies came out with their own line of versatile laptops,entertainment laptops, mobile laptop and power house laptops. Then there's entry-level to mid level laptops. one that's good for school and one for business and another one for gaming.

I want to know your opinions on these brands too regarding laptops. I would really appreciate your help on this matter.

[14049752]

When you're selling a product, you're not selling the specs (or brand), necessarily. What you have to do is think of the laptop in terms of features, price, and suitability to the customer's needs and budget.

Ask where they'll be using the computer. Ask what they'll be using it for. Ask if there's anything specific they're looking for (Ie, screen size, gaming performance, weight, watching movies etc). After you have an idea on what they want to do with it, recommend a system or two. If they say gaming, pick out a laptop with lots of ram, an upgradeable video card, etc. If they want it to watch movies on an airplane or car, something with quickplay would be a selling point. You're in a better position to know what you're selling than I am, so look over what you're offering.

If you're selling on specs alone, you're not going to do very well. Most people only know the basics about computers specs and want to know what the system can DO for them. You might find that people have brand loyalty or preferences, but usually just want what's going to work best for them. But if you recommend an HP, be ready with another second recommendation if they've had bad experiences with HP.

Finally, when you do pick out a system, you can bring up specs and all that if you want....but don't just throw numbers at them (unless they ask) without explaining the advantages.

Oh, yeah.....and people always ask "Is Brand A as reliable as Brand B?" How you answer this is your own preference, really...but it's bad practice to bad-mouth brands that you sell. If you don't LIKE a brand, talk about the positives of the alternatives, but don't let your preferences come into play....and no manufacturer intentionally releases a shoddy product (Although, I suppose that is debatable! heh....)

[tartis]

The main differnce in brands is the level of customer service that they provide. Also commercial models tend to have a better warranty than home machines. As an example, HP has the Pavilion line for home, and they have the Evo line for business. The home models will come with a 1 year warranty, while the business line has a standard 3 year warranty with overnight shipping of parts.

How quick is the service from brand "A" compared with brand "B"? Do I have to wait on hold for an hour just to speek to a rep in India that I can barely understand, or is most of the customer service performed in my own country.

Selling service is what sells computers. If you are just selling on price, than your customers might as well go to Walmart and grab a PC off the shelf. Sell yourself and the customer will trust you and buy.

[focuz]

The biggest difference is their support. Quality is personal choice and experience and specs are relative to whose buying the machine. The only thing that should matter is when they have an issue they don't have to talk to india. Which I think Gateway is the only brand that has US support.

[gunslinger]

I pretty much agree with everything stated above, especially the part about having to talk to india. Although there is a difference in quality, there is a bigger difference in support.

[rai01]

Thanks so much guys for the tips. I learned a lot. I guess all I need now is a lot of practice! :)