Consumer Tech Support, LLC
About
Honest, low-key service, but most of all compassion for the stress that technology will cause all of us from time to time.
Problem solving and helping people feel less dread and anxiety when they are using technology.
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I gather information about the problem or shortcoming of the customer's technology and discuss options (but not too many options). Once we have agreed upon the plan of action, we commence fixing the problem.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been working professionally with technology for 17 years. I have the A+ and Network+ Comptia certifications. The thing is, other than programming (which I don't do), most of the I.T. field has OJT (on the job training) instead of classroom training that makes them good at their job. More honesty: Most computer techs are skilled at the 'art' of using Google to see who else has solved the existing problem/s.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
I have some services that are flat rate, such as virus removal or data recovery, but otherwise, I charge a reasonable hourly rate.
How did you get started in this business?
I've always been a problem solver, and I enjoy technology, so this field is a good fit for me. I like working with people too, and that's what I.T. is really about.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I mostly work with consumers, but I have a few select small businesses that I work with. I have worked with all ages of customer, but I specialize in serving the needs of the 'over-60' crowd, who often feel disenfranchised by the constantly changing and demanding area of technology.
Describe a recent project you are fond of.
Quick fixes are my favorite, and recently a customer brought in a PC that was running very slow. I quickly figured out that it was the Google Chrome browser theme that was slowing the PC down (...mostly). I was able to more thoroughly optimize the customer's computer and provide a bit of tutoring. This customer was left feeling like she got a great deal (I charged $40) and a sense of empowerment.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
You have four main choices: (a) Your young neighbor, neice/nephew or other (apparent) whiz kid, (b) big box options such as Geek Squad, (c) an overworked I.T. pro who moonlights providing tech support to consumers and small businesses, or (d) businesses like mine that know what they do well and will do the job right. Option A is great for small problems and short tutorials (if you can get them to do them) and option C is good if the moonlighting I.T. pro has infinite energy (and some do). Investigate before hiring a technician. Don't hesitate to call and ask how they know a job is finished.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
(a) When did the problem start?; (b) How much do I want to invest in fixing my computer based on how old it is?; (c) What data files can I not live without and where are they?; and (d) What software do I use most often (e.g., Word, Photo Editing, Games)?