Are you the person everybody turns to when they have a computer problem — malware, viruses, the dreaded blue screen and more? Do people approach you first if their smartphones are not functioning well? Why not turn your IT prowess into a business and start earning?
According to a recent report, the computer services industry in Canada is booming with the computer repair segment contributing a total of 33.7% to its total revenue.
Almost all small business, home offices, institutions, etc. use computers and smartphones, and depend on them for their business. But, they may lack the knowledge or the skills needed to repair them in case of wear and tear. Now, this gives you an upper hand to put yourself amidst one of the fastest growing industries in the world.
Computer repair technicians are paid an average of around $13 an hour at repair shops. You could easily charge the equivalent at home and maybe a little more if you pick up and drop the system.
No matter what your business experience or technical know-how, you can start your own IT repair business. If you have the knack of working with hardware, software, and love working with people, you will find that running your own business can be incredibly fulfilling and bring substantial revenue at the same time.
Here’s everything you need to know how to get started on your own IT repair business!
Advantages Of Having A Solo Entrepreneur IT Repair Business!
Some obvious benefits of having an IT repair business:
- Work virtually from anywhere you want, as long as you have Internet access. You can also run your business from the comfort of your home.
- Flexibility to set your own working hours and schedule. While you would need to tweak your schedule in order to meet customers, you can still roll up your sleeves at 3.00 am if this is when you hit your stride.
- As the world is reliant on computers and smartphones, the demand for tech-savvy people is high!
- Your specialized knowledge, experience, and passion for IT will earn you a good living.
- Don’t require a formal training or specialized degree as long as you know the technical aspects of the business.
- You can also start up part-time around your current job or other obligations and then work your way up.
- Low overhead or start-up costs. A few tools, software and repair gadgets are all you need to get started on your own without investing too much on any infrastructure if you are working out of your home.
What You Will Need To Start An IT Repair Business…
Here are some steps to get you started on your right foot and start your new endeavor:
Step 1:
Decide what type of IT repair service you want to offer. Will you include full computer setup along with other repair services like repairing smartphones? Will you visit client homes? Or do you want to liaison with small businesses for their computer needs?
Step 2:
Set up a workspace that will have all the required tools and equipment to start-up on your business. Be it a virtual workspace, home or setting up your own repair shop, work out the right workspace according to your budget.
Additionally, make sure you have a list of suppliers for the spare parts and other tools you’d be needing.
Step 3:
Come up with a business plan, outlining all the details of the business and think up on how you can appeal to customers and provide your services.
Step 4:
Decide on your business structure and a business name. Obtain a license for your business, insurance and more according to the requirements of your area. Also, open up a business account to keep track of your revenue.
Step 5:
Create marketing materials like business cards, flyers, social media ads, brochures and more to promote your business. Also, word of mouth serves as a great medium to get started, so it’s a good idea to let your close circle know about your business.
Step 6:
Stay up-to-date and constantly keep a tab on the latest trends in hardware, software, new threats and other important issues related to IT maintenance. Being on top of your game will give you an edge in the business.
Some Handy Tips To Have A Successful IT Repair Business…
The following tips will help you sustain and run your IT repair business:
1. Know Your Strengths And Weakness:
If you possess technical knowledge but don't have the knack for business, hire bookkeeping and accounting expertise to handle those areas and focus on your productive side.
You can invest in automated software tools to handle business-related tasks. Understand your strengths and weaknesses to have a good balance of business, technical and social skills in order to respond to long term relationships with your clients.
2. Set The Rates Correctly:
Time is Money! You might be tempted to start with low rates in the beginning, but can have trouble working hard to meet all ends.
Therefore, know the prevailing rates and research it out to set an apt rate for your own business.
3. Understand The Needs Of Your Clients:
Before you embark on your own IT repair business, it’s important to know your ideal customers and how best you can serve them.
Understand their needs and requirements and fine-tune your stance to be able to position yourself. Having a niche offering or an area of specialty will help you identify and attract more customers.
4. Patience And Perseverance:
Don’t expect to instantly get a full roster of customers. It can take as long as 6 months to one year to create a steady business and build a client base.
This is because relationships take time to evolve and good customer relationship is key to any business. Be patient in networking and forging new connections that will pay off in time.
5. Marketing Is Key:
You will have to adorn different hats being a solo entrepreneur and be adept at multitasking. You have to take care of sales, administrative, marketing and more activities all by yourself.
Creating a good marketing plan is the basic premise to earn more business and make sure your sales funnel is fed. So, spend time with marketing activities and assess the best strategies.
Get set to start your new venture and live your passion! The above tips and pointers will aid you in this process.
If you are planning to start a phone repair business alongside your IT repair business, get in touch with us today.
We offer top-quality replacement parts and phone unlocking services. To know more about our services, head here!