How to Start A Computer Repair Business

First of all you need to recognize form the start that a basic computer repair business involves assembling, selling and servicing personal computers. However many newcomers also overlook other skills and services that often come into play such as software troubleshooting, purchasing, inventory control, accounting, setting prices, customer relations, and time management.

Starting a computer repair business is the same as starting any other business. The key to success is to provide the best possible service and parts at the most competitive price. Otherwise, you are just not going to make a profit.

As with any new business, you should plan on starting small. Don't try to build a computer repair empire before you have been able to invoice for 50 hours of service. Don't invest money in excess inventory until you have sold what you do have in stock.

Fortunately, those in the computer repair business nowadays don't have to invest in too much stock. This is thanks to the wide availability of small computer parts for sale on the Internet that can be delivered to your company over night. Employing this "pay as you go" system can spare you from making the expensive mistake of overstocking your inventory.

Once you have started your computer repair business, your first responsibility is to earn a good reputation. Being on time and answering phone calls and emails promptly is one way to ensure that your business thrives and survives. There are many completely competent computer repair people in business but what customers care most about is your service and a demonstration that you value their time. The fastest way to end up with a bad reputation in the computer repair business is to hide or duck from your customers should your schedule become overwhelmed with orders.

Although you may be the best of Renaissance computer repair people there may come a time when you are stumped by a problem. In this case you should consult with customer and help them find someone who is more qualified to fix the problem. This enhances your reputation as a troubleshooter.

It is also very important not to humiliate or belittle a customer if you are called to repair a computer and the problem is an unplugged cord or a deleted icon desktop. Don't charge them for the visit unless you traveled a long distance.

The standard warranty on parts and service offered by most computer repair companies is one year. Warranty repair turn around is usually guaranteed to be accomplished within at least three business days. In cases like a rare motherboard or top of the line CPU where you can't afford or just don't want to own a duplicate, you should be prepared to offer what is a "loaner." This is an equivalent part or machine. You should build a good relationship with small number suppliers with whom you can build a good relationship, as they would be more able to accommodate you in such situations. You should also favor suppliers who can ship to you by UPS ground and have the part show up within 24 hours.

If you don't think you can compete with that kind of service or don't think you have these types of innovative problem solving skills, then maybe the computer repair business is not for you after all.

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