How to Start a Computer Services Business

While starting any business requires many of the same steps, some businesses require slightly different approaches to be successful. A computer services business is one of these. You must be knowledgeable about current trends and computer technology. But more importantly, you must be able to demonstrate this knowledge in a way that people who are not computer-savvy can understand.

Things You'll Need

• Antivirus Software
• Small screwdrivers
• Flash Drives
• Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, Apple)
• Reference Guides

Instructions

1. Determine what your time is worth. Today's computer market is more about diagnostics and prevention than it is about actual repair. While you will have people whose computers break down, you want your main focus to be on management service and maintenance. You must establish an hourly rate for services. Figure out what it will take to break even in your business for the month, then divide that by four. This is your weekly figure. Then take the weekly figure and divide by the number of days you expect to work each week. This is the daily amount you need to pay the bills. Then take this number and divide it by eight. This will be your hourly base rate.

2. Determine your customer base. Know if you want to service residential customers or business customers. You can also create a mix of both, but you must know the amount of each in the mix. If you wish to set up networks and hubs, you are dealing mainly with businesses. If you want to deal with single computers or small networks, you want to focus mainly on residential customers. To create a lucrative base, however, you will want to focus on a mix of both.

3. Determine how you will service your customers. You can set up to have people come to you, which will mean having a base. This can be a garage, extra room, or small rented spot if your finances allow. It's cheaper in the beginning, though, to take your services to the people. All you need is a toolbox and basic software to go into a home or business. This is the easiest way to start, and then you can branch out to having your own shop.

4. Study the current technology and trends. Keeping up on current trends and applications is as important as knowing the older machines and software. This does two things: allows you to service the greatest number of customers and to troubleshoot problems of new and old technology, and how they interact.

5. Advertise both online and in local shoppers. Start with Craigslist. Look in the computer section under the Gigs category for people looking for computer services in your area. Next to this section is the area where you can place an ad to get customers. You will need to create an account, which is free, and will allow you to post ads in multiple areas. When you get your first few customers, use the cash to place ads in local shoppers to generate interest from people who do not use Craigslist. Keep advertising for as long as you run your business to continue generating new leads for customers.

6. Join the local chamber of commerce. Once you have some income, find out how much it costs to join your local chamber and then join up. This is one of the best sources for referrals, leads and information within your community. Have business cards made up and hand these out to everyone you meet at chamber meetings.

7. Get repeat contracts and referrals. When you start a computer services business, you want to generate as much repeat business as possible. The best way to do this is to get customers to sign up for monthly maintenance or updates. Once you build up your contract list, you will create a base income that will be your main source of revenue. These people will also create a base of referrals to new customers. Ask all customers for referrals, references and contacts that may want your services. Offer discounts for these because the income will easily offset the cost and generate more good will.