FormFactor
8 Dec 2005, 12:09am
Every once in a while I'll get requests via word of mouth for someone willing to pay me to fix their computers, which usually just involves a reformat/reinstall of windows and apps. I'm always willing to do these side jobs because they pay pretty well, and I can always use some extra cash.
I've always considered starting a side business doing computer repair, but don’t really know where to start. I have decided I really want to put some effort in to getting something started, and could really use some advice from anyone who has experience in this type of business. I also have a few friends and coworkers that are real sharp that have expressed interest in helping with the workload if I can get enough customers. Any helpful advice anyone here can give would be hugely appreciated.
First of all, how should I advertise? I live in Cedar Rapids, IA which is a city of 120758 and I'm thinking of just running an ad in the newspaper, and the phone book. Ill also look into The Penny Saver. Is there anyplace else I should advertise? I'm thinking something along the lines of advertising my prices for service will be the best in town, and from the prices businesses like Best Buy, and the mom and pop shops around here charge for this kind of service that should be easy to do, and still make a killing.
My next question is about how I should design my website, if anyone else does this kind of thing, please post links to your sites.
My final question is about Windows licensing and how that works. I can't just format their machines and throw a devils own copy of XP on there. I would imagine these customers won't have their install discs anymore, but they probably have their product key sticker someplace on the machine, but where can I get copies of the OEM install discs? How does the Best Buy Geek Squad do it?
And again any other general advice anyone could give would be appreciated.
Thanks all,
-Form
I've always considered starting a side business doing computer repair, but don’t really know where to start. I have decided I really want to put some effort in to getting something started, and could really use some advice from anyone who has experience in this type of business. I also have a few friends and coworkers that are real sharp that have expressed interest in helping with the workload if I can get enough customers. Any helpful advice anyone here can give would be hugely appreciated.
First of all, how should I advertise? I live in Cedar Rapids, IA which is a city of 120758 and I'm thinking of just running an ad in the newspaper, and the phone book. Ill also look into The Penny Saver. Is there anyplace else I should advertise? I'm thinking something along the lines of advertising my prices for service will be the best in town, and from the prices businesses like Best Buy, and the mom and pop shops around here charge for this kind of service that should be easy to do, and still make a killing.
My next question is about how I should design my website, if anyone else does this kind of thing, please post links to your sites.
My final question is about Windows licensing and how that works. I can't just format their machines and throw a devils own copy of XP on there. I would imagine these customers won't have their install discs anymore, but they probably have their product key sticker someplace on the machine, but where can I get copies of the OEM install discs? How does the Best Buy Geek Squad do it?
And again any other general advice anyone could give would be appreciated.
Thanks all,
-Form