warlocke

ok im currently in school for computer tech at vatterott here in kansas city, mo. i am interestred in starting my own business, im only 19 years old, i know i would start out very slow, ive been reading some of the other posts, and ive gathered this info

1. get the basic tool set. (i get one from school next phase)
2. get the basic software (money is a problem here)
3. start handing out business cards and flyers at business that will let me.

now heres my questions,

first things first i would probally have to register a business name am i correct?
and what do i have to do legal wise for tax reporting and the likes.

2. what else would i need software wise, im currently unemployed and cannot find work atm, going to try and get help from school tomm, but how should i do this, i dont have much in terms of software. for the first few jobs until i can afford some software buy a version for the indvidual customer having them pay for it and offer to install it for a discounted service fee, then buy my copy when i can afford it?

3. What else will i need?

4. also i am not certified in anything atm although i plan to be, should i wait till i grad or just do what i can until i am certified? also if i do work on say a compaq w/o being certified that would boid the warrenty correct?

thanks in advance all.

Cellus

It would be a good idea to wait until graduation if you can before starting. Complete your education so you are better prepared - jumping the gun can lead to problems.

First and foremost, your instructors are a valuable resource. Always ask them first as they should be familiar with your area and what needs to be done. They should definitely be able to answer your first question, though you may need to poke more than one person.

Just out of curiousity, what is the program? What certifications do you get?

crazijoe

One thing you might want to check out for you business that often people overlook is insurance. When you work on a computer you are responsible, whether it is a $200 computer or a $20,000 computer. Make sure you are covered if something goes wrong.

warlocke

the program is called computer technology, im going for the diploma at the moment but will prolly go for the associates, they train in dos, windows, hardware, networking, and a few other stuff, im not sure on exact classes, but ill prolly try for a+ and ccna and such

NWPhotog

1. Don't worry about certs or business names at this point.

2. Be sure to have the most basic of tools i.e. 6 in 1 screwdriver, small pliers, miniature screwdrivers set. The total should be under $15.

3. Start by doing stuff for friends and family. Do it for free but they'll likely offer food or money for your help which you should accept.

4. Go to the next step by reaching out to other home users. Charge a decent rate. Certainly NOT under $40 per hour but also accept jobs you can complete 100% successfully.

5. After you have phase 4 down pat do what it takes i.e. DBA, sales tax license, etc. Then start courting business work.

warlocke

ok, i am currently compiling a utility cd for my use, what programs should i put on it? ive also got a copy of master boot cd, and i have all the spyware,av,and firewall programs listed in the security thread, thanks


also where can i download a copy of all microsoft updates so i can burn and have them handy.

yustr

Another area often overlooked is to volunteer your services to a church, food bank, youth center, senior center, etc...Ask only that they allow you to place a small advert on the bulletin board and in their newsletter - "Computer support donated by warlocke. If you need help call ...."

The key is networking. If a parishioner sees that you helped the Pastor he's more likely call you when he has a problem.

Done_Fishin

Get a grip on Linux .. I haven't yet and I find it's a problem when dealing with unknown systems

Try taking a look at UBCD, which is linux based and has a whole lot of useful tools, mostly freeware which are a boon to diagnosis.
Play with it and make sure you feel confident. Mkae sure you learn how to use it.
Look for freeware stuff until you can afford something better. If you can't find anything better stay with the free stuff.

ebackhus

Agreed. When I was a tech at Worst Buy we had a Linux laptop come in. Everyone just stared in stupid confusion at the machine while the customer stared at us in exasperation.

UBCD is awesome...

Skie

There's been a lot of threads in this forum from people asking the same/similar questions that you are. Here's a few for you to look at:

http://www.techsupportforum.com/conv...-business.html
http://www.techsupportforum.com/conv...-business.html
http://www.techsupportforum.com/conv...-business.html

There's many more, just do a search in The Tech Business forum. There have been a lot of good ideas and suggestions already.

VincentWong

Starting out is pretty easy. First thing you want to do is register for a business license in your state/county. At the same, register your trade name. I would also suggest that you register as an Limited Liability Company (LLC) as it will protect your personal assets. Next step would be to register for a Federal Tax ID, which is required for other steps in starting a business, such as opening a bank account etc. Check out:

http://www.bizfilings.com

This site is dedicated to helping small businesses file legal paperwork at low cost.

If starting a venture does not interfere with school, I say go for it. At this point, your education should be your first priority. But starting your own business at 19 really gives you a head start.

Good luck!

warlocke

thanks bud, what does all that cost in the first place lol, just wondering. thanks tho

VincentWong

An LLC should not run more than $100. Everything else is pretty much free. Your state filings will depend on your profit, which is usually 0 when you first apply. It is more effort than anything else. The hardest part is getting yourself to actually follow through. If you find that you are able to complete the first few steps in starting a business, then you will have already succeeded where many others have failed.

Valandil

I`d wait for a while if I were you. Wait for some experience, finish school, etc. It`s not that wise to try to start a business right after you get out of school. Another thing that brings people down is the fact that they want to rent their own little shop on a yearly lease instead of starting it at home in their garage or what have you until they have the money coming in to support the transition.