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Building Up a Small Computer Business?

Posted by Cliff on from the many-of-us-have-been-here-before dept.

Hogg asks: "I'm a senior in high school, and feeling very industrious over the summer, I started a home business. Basically, I go onsite and service computers and charge far less than what the 'pros' with the MCSEs and so on do. It's been going fairly well so far, but I wonder if Slashdot has tips, advice, or pitfalls to avoid?"

2 of 111 comments (clear)

  1. Get it in Writing by darkkewulf · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Always have a disclaimer form that releases you from liability should something go wrong. If my customer won't sign the form, I won't touch the PC. That way, the user can't blame you if he screws up and loses everything from his drive a few weeks after you've done your thing.

    --

    "All universal moral principles are idle fantasies." -The Marquis de Sade
  2. Don't be too nice by gregRowe · · Score: 5, Insightful

    I know it sounds strange but be very strict about billing. Many small businesses are too trusting and too nice and allow other businesses to walk all over them.

    Make sure you bill promptly and accurately and be sure to charge late charges on accounts. If a customer becomes past due do not perform further work for them. You can't work for free and make a living.

    Also, don't charge *too much* below what the MCSEs charge. It's stupid but people will automatically think that you are of lesser quality. You have to have an air of confidence, and charging "high" prices shows that you feel you are worth that much.

    Greg

    --
    There\'s no place like ~