Getting the First Customers

[cwish001]

I am refocusing my computer repair business from the residential market where I had no success to small and mid size business. I will be focusing on networking and services rather than repair. How do you get your foot in the door with businesses. I really don't want to cold call and I find that newspaper advertising, at least for the repair business, didn't work very well. What can I do to get businesses interested enough in my service to request a consultation.

I really am trying to build a business that I can transition into after I graduate from college. I know the IT industry fairly well, served four years in the Navy as a Systems Administrator (IT2), ran a computer repair business part time (making no money), and work as a systems administrator for my school. The whole marketing aspect is really hard for me. I am kind of a shy person and I am really self conscious when I speak with people. Every time I try to set up a business I feel so illegitimate. Does anyone have any suggestions on I can get out of this funk.

[byrneof]

Join a local chamber of commerce or business organization and network. It's difficult to market a repair business because people don't think about it until their computers are actually broken.

You could call to local businesses and introduce yourself. Tell them that you have just set up and if they have a problem with any of their computers to give you a call. Leave a card. This will take time and you probably won't see any short term results but over the medium term when computers start causing trouble you may see some benefits.

[Bizinaboxx]

Come out of your shell! That's going to be one of the best skill sets you gain. Byrneof is right. You have to get out there and local Chambers or networking groups are not only the place, but it's inexpensive.

First, you are only "illegitimate" if you think you are. The fact that you know a great deal about what you do versus what others know about it makes you an expert. If you believe in your ability, it will come across that way to others.

Second, get out there and meet people. People do business with people they like. Be consistent and find a couple of groups you are willing to show up to each time. Consistency is key, not only because it provides people with an opportunity to get to know you as a person, but it's also a way for you to build your credibility. Most of the professionals in these groups are more than willing to give advice and introduce you to people in their sphere of influence.

When I first started networking five years ago, I was also introverted. But everyone else had been there or were feeling the same way as I did. It quickly changed and the business did roll in. I also cultivated great relationships and a skill set for getting to people who could help me further. As a result, I also started a group, which eventually led to public speaking and honing my skills.

Lastly, remember, people love to give advice. Ask for it. You will be amazed at the response. Learn to give back too and you will get the business you seek.


Melissa Rose, MBA

Biz in a Boxx
Tomorrow's Business Leaders

[david90]

I am refocusing my computer repair business from the residential market where I had no success to small and mid size business. I will be focusing on networking and services rather than repair. How do you get your foot in the door with businesses. I really don't want to cold call and I find that newspaper advertising, at least for the repair business, didn't work very well. What can I do to get businesses interested enough in my service to request a consultation.

I really am trying to build a business that I can transition into after I graduate from college. I know the IT industry fairly well, served four years in the Navy as a Systems Administrator (IT2), ran a computer repair business part time (making no money), and work as a systems administrator for my school. The whole marketing aspect is really hard for me. I am kind of a shy person and I am really self conscious when I speak with people. Every time I try to set up a business I feel so illegitimate. Does anyone have any suggestions on I can get out of this funk.

I'm in the same boat. I just started my IT business and is also focusing on networking. I'm in Socal though so you're safe from me. JK . Maybe we work together and share some info. Do you use any msg program?

Currently I'm thinking of just printing out fliers and just pass it out to business at my convenience. This won't bring any network setup jobs because the business is already established and operating. At least I might get some upgrade or troubleshooting jobs.

I think the main reason why residential computer repair is not a good focus is because the repair cost is way too high. New computers are pretty cheap so repairing a broken one might not be worth it. Yes you can lower the price of repair down to $30-$40 like most part timers charge but that's not going to work out if your IT business is legit. A legit IT business got bills to pay like insurance, business license and tax. Troubleshooting takes a long time especially with unique problems. If you charge $40 to troubleshoot a problem, you probably will be making about $10 an hour after you factor in tax, time, gas, bills etc. You're better off working at Walmart.

[inexorable]

Don't waste your time with flyers. Learn and employ time-tested networking practices, and also use PPC advertising (not newspaper advertising!) to get your first clients.