Monday, December 10, 2007

how to do that

Steps
1Step OneSo you may need a computer specialist to help you, so where do you begin? The best possible choice is asking for the recommendation of friends or those you work with. If allowed, send out a group email (or emails to friends) asking them whom they have worked with prior.
2Step TwoYou also could inquire in your IT department at work if they would help you after work or if they would recommend anyone.
3Step ThreeIf those two steps aren't yielding success, you can grab the local phone book and start calling. If you have a smaller, local directory this will help you narrow down choices. When you are looking in the advertising section, look for certifications such as A+, MSCE, MOUS.
4Step FourYou may not find this out without asking, but find out how many years they have been in business and how much experience they have.
5Step FiveAsk if they will send a male or female and obtain their names. It also does not hurt if they have a guarantee. Make sure also that you know what you will be charged and how much. If you can talk directly to the technician/professional, you may want to see if you have rapport with them. Some technicians are anything but helpful, so you will want to make sure this is a business that has the clients' best interests at heart.

Eliminate the ones who do not return phone calls or are rude/intimidating.
6Step SixIf the phone book tires you, or for a change of pace, you can always try the classified advertising section in local area newspapers. These people are often looking for work and are eager to help you. If you are wary, ask for a few references from their past clients.
7Step SevenIf they have a website, you may want to look it up if you are able. This will give you a better feel for the company.
8Step EightTake note of how the company or the repair person treats you on the phone. This is a good indication of how the service will go. Also ask if they come to your home/office or if you have to bring the computer to them. Then, always find out if they will send your computer out and how long you will be without a machine. Get someone who can fix it on site or by the next business day if possible.
9Step NineStay well informed of charges, such as when the time starts for the technician and if there is a trip charge, charge for parts, labor hourly rate and any additional charges. If you can secure a flat rate for a specific task, this may be the best way to get value for your money.
10Step TenAlso do your homework. Find out ahead of time what it would cost just to replace the computer outright instead of racking up service charges for an older computer.
11Step Eleven If you have the time, you can also check out the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has had complaints as well as doing a Google Internet search on them. Check with your local chamber of commerce as well.
12Step Twelve Don't sign any contracts and do not pay until your work is completed. Do not pay more than you agreed to.
13Step Thirteen When you are gathering your information, keep a pen and paper handy and write down the name of the company/individual, rates, turnaround time and any other pertinent information.

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