How to Open a Computer Repair Shop
Computer repair might seem to be an easy task, but it is possible only for a computer professional to troubleshoot all the problems successfully. In order to open a computer-repair shop, you will need to be an expert at troubleshooting software and hardware issues, delivering good customer service and managing time as well as business affairs. New computers are available at low costs, so you will need to make repairs inexpensively to compete.
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Instructions
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Write a business plan that includes your mission and vision statements, start-up and operating expenses, projected cash flows, sources for funding, and marketing plan. Identify your competitors and evaluate how you can fit in and attract your own clients. A computer-repair shop needs low start-up capital so you might have your own sources for funding.
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Obtain certification for your business. This adds value and gives you a competitive advantage over your uncertified competitors. One example of a certification that can give you credibility is having a college degree in computer engineering.
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Determine a domain name for your business and register it in your state, after checking that there is no other similar firm. Choose a name that fits your image and projects your objectives to your potential customers.
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Determine your target market based on your requirements. If you are just trying to establish a local business, your target will be the residential clients of your locality.
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Choose a business location, where your clients can reach you whenever possible. In case of residential customers, you might choose to start from your own home and offer service through calls and emails. In case of business clients, your ideal place will be a location in the city.
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Purchase the necessary equipment and tools. You will need some specialty hardware tools such as pliers, soldering tools, screwdrivers or software programs such as virus software and disc formatting. Keep your tools as current as possible so you can rectify the issues fast and efficiently.
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Obtain a business license. Inquire if your state, city, county or locality needs a license and go through the necessary procedures. You will also need a sales tax license.
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Compare the rates and fees charged by your peers and try to set competitive and affordable rates. This can be an hourly rate or a rate based on a service. Decide which suits you best and choose one. According to entrepreneur.com, the average hourly rate for computer service in the United States is $100.
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Hire employees if you plan on establishing a larger business. Look into worker compensation rules and abide by them.
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Market your services through direct mail, telemarketing, pamphlet drops, web marketing or a combination.
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Tips & Warnings
Stay informed with the latest technologies. The technology field changes very fast.
References
- Photo Credit computer repair concept - workers repairing keyboard image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
