Q. Describe the most common types of jobs you do for your clients.
A. My most common types of jobs are wireless network setups/repair, new machine setups, and virus removals but I encounter new things every day.
Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A. Do your homework on the person or business. Type there name or company into a search engine and see if anything comes up, on occasion it does. Ask for references and follow through with them and make sure they sound legit. See if they are listed on any sites where customers can leave feedback such as Thumbtack, Angie's list, or Kudzu.
Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?
A. How complex it is. Many customers believe that things are cut and dry with computers. This isn't always the case. There are many factors that go into my decision making process for repairs.
Q. What do you like most about your job?
A. The aspect of my job that i enjoy most is sharing information. I have unique insight into the world of computers and I consider it part of my job to advise my clients of things they could do to make their computing environment better. I often get asked if I'm a teacher because of the way I am able to explain complex things to customers of any level.
Q. Do you do any sort of continuing education to stay up on the latest developments in your field?
A. My continuing education occurs every day between my full time job and my consulting. I'm always being presented with new technologies and problems that keep my skills on the cutting edge.
Q. What are the latest developments in your field? Are there any exciting things coming in the next few years or decade that will change your line of business?
A. What new in the realm of computers? Too many things to point out in a reasonable amount of time. New technology is emerging every day and is making its way into other aspects of our lives. Our tv's and dvd players are wireless, we are doing more and more with smaller items like tablets and phones, and the list goes on. I've even set up a wireless thermostat system!
Q. If you have a complicated pricing system for your service, please give all the details here.
A. My pricing system is simple. I charge 80 per hour for on site calls and carry in calls are negotiated and agreed upon prior to work being done. My only catch is an on site call has a minimum charge of 2 hours. I don't charge travel fees.
Q. If you were advising someone who wanted to get into your profession, what would you suggest?
A. Keep your mind open and try as many things as you can. technology has many branches and you never know what you may or may not like.
