How do I start a computer repair business?
9 Unique and Professional Ways to Promote your Computer Repair BusinessReach your Customers. ... Experience Matters. ... Introduce Free Pick and Drop Service. ... Reasonable Pricing. ... Surprise your Customers with Free Services. ... Get Enough Time for Business Marketing. ... Networking is Also Important. ... Add on More Professionalism.More items...•
Is it hard to start a computer repair business?
Although the pros are significant, there still are some potential challenges you may face when starting a computer repair and maintenance business. They are not too difficult to overcome: It's not enough just to have the technical knowledge and skills. You'll need good communication skills.
Is PC repair a good business?
However, taking a computer repair shop out on the road is still a viable and profitable endeavor. There are many reasons why there's plenty of space for entrepreneurs like you to offer mobile computer repairs to individuals and other businesses.
How much does it cost to start a computer business?
The cost of operating a computer repair business will vary depending on the business model. A home-based repair business can cost as little as $2,000 to $3,000 to start up. A repair business with a brick-and-mortar storefront will cost closer to $10,000, but startup costs are still quite manageable.
What is the weakness of computer shop business?
Weaknesses. Computer repair shops can find it difficult or virtually impossible to serve anything larger than a local area.
What tools do I need for a computer repair business?
Essential tools used by computer repairing experts for the specific purposeScrewdrivers (Non-magnetic) ... ATX Power Supply Tester. ... Multi-tester. ... Cable testers. ... POST Card. ... Data-recovery software. ... USB network adapter.
What does a computer repair shop do?
Repair shops can deal with a wide variety of issues, from bad hardware components to software issues such as operating system errors. They may also be able to help you with a suspected virus or malware infection on your computer.
What does a computer technician do?
Computer technicians install, maintain, and troubleshoot hardware and software for businesses and organizations. Depending on what type of company you work for, your day-to-day tasks may include: Setting up hardware and installing software. Performing repairs on computers and other peripherals.
What are the advantages of starting a computer business?
Then again, the reality is that business people enjoy the advantages of computer application technology to make work easier and more efficient than ever.Speed and Accuracy. ... The Ability to Forecast. ... Increased Connectivity. ... Information Security. ... Entrepreneurial Opportunity. ... Hiring and Managing Employees. ... Education and Training.
What business can I start with 5000?
If you need a little more help brainstorming, here are six businesses you can start for under $5,000.Tutoring or Online Courses. ... Make a product and sell it online. ... Open a consulting business. ... Create an app or game. ... Become a real estate mogul. ... Virtual Assistant.
How can I start my own business with no money?
If you start out with little money, outperform other businesses. ... Start a service business. ... If you don't have money, at least have time. ... Carry out market research. ... Follow a "sell first, build later" approach. ... Try affiliate marketing. ... Don't worry too much about resources. ... Create demand by having a social media presence.More items...•
How much is a work PC?
Desktops for Business If you're in the market for a new desktop computer for one or multiple employees, expect to pay between $400 for a basic model with limited storage space to $3500 for a top of the line desktop with a large hard drive. Desktops also range in price based on operating system as well.
What does a computer repair shop do?
Repair shops can deal with a wide variety of issues, from bad hardware components to software issues such as operating system errors. They may also be able to help you with a suspected virus or malware infection on your computer.
What are the advantages of starting a computer business?
Then again, the reality is that business people enjoy the advantages of computer application technology to make work easier and more efficient than ever.Speed and Accuracy. ... The Ability to Forecast. ... Increased Connectivity. ... Information Security. ... Entrepreneurial Opportunity. ... Hiring and Managing Employees. ... Education and Training.
What type of business is a computer shop?
Computer retailers buy computers and related equipment at wholesale and sell it at their retail stores. Computer retailers run the gamut, from chain stores and large electronics retailers to small independent shops that sell custom-built computers and provide support services as well as computer sales.
What are the advantages of computer shop?
Some Amazing Benefits of Taking Computer Repair ServicesComputer Repairing Companies are cost efficient. ... Efficiency is another factor in hiring a computer repair company. ... Save Valuable Time. ... Save Important Files and Data. ... You can relax without any worries.
What degree do I need to repair a computer?
You don't need a degree to open a computer repair business, but there are several certifications you may want to obtain to prove that you have the necessary expertise and potentially gain a competitive advantage. Some of the more common ones include: 1 CompTIA A+ Technician 2 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 3 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) 4 Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) 5 ACMT (Apple) 6 BICSI Technician (BICISI)
What type of insurance is used for computer repair?
Another policy that can benefit computer repair businesses is a business owner's policy, which combines general liability and commercial property insurance at a lower rate than if you purchased each policy separately.
What insurance do computer technicians need?
Computer repair technicians can also benefit from professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance. This policy can pay for the cost of a lawsuit if a client sues claiming that you made a mistake or failed to provide a service you promised.
How to get a business off the ground?
One option to consider is a loan through the Small Business Administration. The SBA partners with lenders, community development organizations, and micro-lending institutions to set guidelines and facilitate loans for small business owners. This reduces risk for lenders and makes it easier for small business to get approved – typically at lower rates than they might ordinarily qualify for through a traditional bank loan.
How to promote your business?
It's important to make marketing a part of your regular schedule. Set aside a few hours each week to touch base with current and potential clients, post on your social media accounts, and otherwise promote your business .
Why limit repairs to house calls?
Limiting your repairs to house calls at your clients' homes or businesses eliminates the added expense of a storefront, and also creates a natural separation from your personal life at home. However, there are other factors to take into account. You will be at the mercy of your clients' schedules, and you also run the risk of jobs taking longer than anticipated, especially if clients ask you to complete extra work once you're there. Since you’ll be driving to your clients, you should also consider purchasing commercial auto insurance, since most personal auto policies don’t cover business-related driving.
When to approach lenders for business funding?
Once your business plan is finalized, you'll be ready to approach lenders if you choose to look for business funding. (Related: “ How to budget your way to a successful IT business launch .”)
Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You
Starting a computer repair business has pros and cons to consider before deciding if it’s right for you.
Step 2: Hone Your Idea
Now that you know what’s involved in starting a computer repair business, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market.
Step 3: Brainstorm a Business Name
Your business name is your business identity, so choose one that encapsulates your objectives, services, and mission in just a few words. You probably want a name that’s short and easy to remember, since much of your business, and your initial business in particular, will come from word-of-mouth referrals.
Step 4: Create a Business Plan
Every business needs a plan. This will function as a guidebook to take your startup through the launch process and maintain focus on your key goals. A business plan also enables potential partners and investors to better understand your company and its vision:
Step 5: Register Your Business
Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.
Step 6: Register for Taxes
The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number, or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN.
Step 7: Fund your Business
Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:
How much does it cost to start a computer repair business?
The cost of operating a computer repair business will vary depending on the business model. A home-based repair business can cost as little as $2,000 to $3,000 to start up. A repair business with a brick-and-mortar storefront will cost closer to $10,000, but startup costs are still quite manageable.
What is computer repair?
Computer repair businesses help customers to both fix and maintain their computers. Often, these businesses are tasked with troubleshooting and fixing computer problems, but that work can extend to setting up and maintaining networks, offering in-home visits, and selling computers and accessories.
What is the target market for a computer repair business?
A computer repair business’s specific target market will depend on the business’ model and services offered. A business specializing in personal computer repair will market to local computer owners who invest in more expensive machines worth repairing. A business specializing in computer maintenance and networks to businesses may only market to businesses of a certain size or those that use a particular technology.
What is customer service in computer repair?
Customer service is a big aspect of the computer repair industry. A business owner will need to be able to provide prompt service and have computers ready on time. Great interpersonal skills are also important, especially since customers may be upset and frustrated with their computers before they even walk in the door.
How much has the computer repair industry declined?
As the industry’s revenue has declined, the number of businesses has also declined to 53,960.
Why is the electronics industry declining?
The decline in the industry’s revenue is due to a number of factors. As computers and other electronics are increasingly more affordable, fewer people are deciding to have their electronics replaced and are instead choosing to replace them when they break. Businesses have also followed this trend and often invest in high-quality equipment and get rid of old, outdated, or broken equipment.
Is cell phone repair the same as computer repair?
Experimax notes that computer repair increasingly crosses over with cell phone repair. As smartphones become more and more like computers, computer repair technicians are beginning to offer cell phone repair services, too. From screen repairs to virus removal and general troubleshooting, there are many opportunities for a technician to expand their services beyond just computers. And, because of the increasingly high cost of cell phones, customers are more likely to repair a $1,000 phone than they are to repair a $300 computer.
What is the best way to build a business?
You will probably have to do the marketing, sales, administrative and all other tasks by yourself in the beginning. Establishing a well-crafted, diversified marketing plan that incorporates a lot of different targeted activities is the only way to build your business and make sure your sales funnel is fed.
What skills do you need to be a successful businessman?
In order to succeed, you need to have a good balance of business, technical and also strong social skills, so you can best respond to the needs of your clients and build long-term relationships with them.
Do small businesses need an IT department?
All small businesses use computers and depend on them to work consistently, predictably and dependably. However, it is not cost effective for most small businesses to have their own in-house IT department. Still, they need someone like a computer repair business to help keep their IT assets up and running, so they can stay competitive in ...
How much does it cost to start a small computer repair business?
According to a detailed feasibility study carried out for the sake of this article, the estimated amount needed to start a small scale computer repair business is $9,000 . Medium scale is $56,000 and a big scale computer repair business at $130,000.
How to get the right pricing for a computer repair?
If you wish to get the right pricing in your computer repair business, you need to be able to understand the job you are being offered and analyse your means of performing them before charging your costumers. You’re also advised to inculcate all your expenses into your billings and remember not to make it outrageous.
Why do we need a computer repairer?
The extent at which the Internet and computer has taken over our world is a pure sign that every computer literate needs the services of a computer repairer when his/her computer malfunctions – be it hardware or software. People of all classes, sizes and age ranging from the business class down to the foetus in the womb (for scans etc) needs a computer repairer to be able to attend to this device known as a computer that has taken over our day to day activities.
Why is the computer repair industry so important?
The very nature of the Computer Repair industry, with its extraordinary rate of technological development, creates a constant need for businesses skilled in updating and advising customers on computer-related issues. With every individual armed with a computer and with almost all valuable information in our daily lives being stored in the computer, the computer selling business is booming and with this booming comes a need for repairers by users.
What is the best legal entity for a computer repair business?
For the purpose of this research, the LLC is the best legal entity for a computer repair business. An LLC is a “pass through” tax entity.
What is the importance of intellectual property in computer repair?
Intellectual property protection is very well needed in the computer repair business in form of patents protection, trademark and copyright protection, Technical Data and Computer Software Protection.
What does it mean to be a computer tech?
Becoming a computer technician is a great point of entry into the IT field, and computer hardware certifications will help demonstrate your knowledge and competency in maintaining computers, mobile devices, printers and more.
How to acquire clients for a business?
Marketing your business is always expensive. In order to acquire clients, you need to let them know you are out there. You might want to network with business owners in your community and establish a presence online with a website, social media campaign, and advertising .
What are the advantages and disadvantages of starting a business?
As with any venture, there are advantages and disadvantages. Initial costs, licensing, certifications, and relevant business knowledge should all be considered before starting your business.
What certifications are needed for networking?
Some common industry certifications are ACMT and CompTIA A+. It is helpful to have some networking certifications as well if you'd like to work on business networks. CompTIA Network+ and CCNP from Cisco are a few of the more common certifications.
How to get started with a marketing campaign?
You might consider creating an initial plan for getting started, with some goals to work towards, and deadlines to meet. Work to establish awareness of your services through a marketing campaign, and plan some actions to build up your client base.
Why do businesses contract with small businesses?
Contracting with small businesses, if you are able to do so, can provide a solid foundation of regular work for your business. If you do good work for them, they will be apt to keep using you and refer you to others.
Is it worth it to plan a business?
It may be worthwhile for you to brush up on some business practices, such as keeping records for accounting purposes and taxes and creating a plan . As the saying goes, a business failing to plan is a business planning to fail.
