To Charge Before the Service or After? That is the Question...

[Cognition]

I'm starting a new remote support tech company doing technical support for PC users. My business provides just remote assistance-based technical support, and if there's a hardware problem, we refer the customer to a local technician.

I have one question about planning my business: When a client calls in to have an issue resolved, do I charge them before or after resolving the issue? I will be charging for services via credit/debit card.

Another question: Is it a good idea to have a "we resolve the issue or you don't pay anything" type of policy with our service? Any drawbacks to this or anything else I need to be aware of?

Thanks for your help!

[hugh009]

It depends on how well you are known in the industry. Do you have a SUPER track record with LOTS of glowing testimonials from previous clients? Are you a maven or expert in your field?

For instance, I have over 35,000 HOURS in the Public Relations field - 35 years PLUS! I have a reputation however I'm also SO confident that I can pull off miracles for clients that I will dazzle them with a FREEBIE! Then I charge my $100 per hour.

Hope this helps.

Hugh

[Cognition]

It depends on how well you are known in the industry. Do you have a SUPER track record with LOTS of glowing testimonials from previous clients? Are you a maven or expert in your field?

For instance, I have over 35,000 HOURS in the Public Relations field - 35 years PLUS! I have a reputation however I'm also SO confident that I can pull off miracles for clients that I will dazzle them with a FREEBIE! Then I charge my $100 per hour.

Hope this helps.

Hugh

Which question of mine were you answering? No, I don't have that amazing track record yet (but a good, solid one with my existing clients), so does that mean that I charge for services when the issue is resolved? Or does my lack of such a track record mean I can't a "only pay when issues are resolved" type of policy?

[myfayt]

Once it's resolved, bill them.

[Cognition]

I get it now. We do a pre-auth for the amount of the service we're going to do (to make sure they can actually pay for it) and charge the amount after the service is complete.

Awesome!