I also think checking out the credentials of your computer tech is completely acceptable and you want to look for things such as CCNA training courses on their their qualification records.

As one of those “small local repairmen”, I live and die by reputation and customer referrals. I’m not working for $10/hr and a Best Buy discount until a “real job” comes along. My business is how I feed my family. As such, I care for and protect my customers interests to a fault. I’m looking for a long-term relationship (because it is mutually beneficial), and glowing referrals to friends and associates, not just a chance to take their money once. I ALWAYS go the extra mile.

Unlike a couple of the previous response posts, I don’t mind the small talk and being watched while I work on a computer – in fact, that’s how I get to know my customer in order to bring things to the table that he/she can use. However, If a system cannot be repaired within an hour or two onsite, I will take it with me for repairs. According to your implications, this is only so I can steal someone’s components. How insulting and utterly ridiculous!

As far as prices, I have the same rate structure as when I started back in 1995. The big box stores certainly provide a massive contrast in pricing. Yes, I have a minimum charge to make a trip to your home or office, but for the most part, my charges are typically 1/3 of what similar services are at the “Nerd Herd”. Besides, I find and fix ALL the problems while I’m there, not just the finite discrete one the customer identified from a price list or a google search.

Lastly… EVERYONE has a nephew, neighbor, or friend that is a “computer genius”. Do you have any idea how much money could be saved if people DON’T let that guy touch their computer first? Would you let the neighbors’ kid dig up your back yard to fix your plumbing? Then why would you let him near what has become the center of your communication, finance, and entertainment?

Don’t gamble. Hire a professional: someone that makes his living solving the kind of problem you are having. You can go to a big box store if spending the extra money there makes you feel safe. Or… you can find a local tech that lives in, works in, and serves the community where you live. Obviously I can’t speak to every situation, but you will most likely be thrilled you did.

If you can’t find someone in YOUR neighborhood, you can always find me at http://www.IowaComputerRepair.com.

The printed article seems to point to the local guy as a thief and a cheat. Most will find a reputable, local tech to be more skilled, cheaper, more accommodating, and more thorough. You have to remember that the local tech doesn’t use big advertisements to get customers, but word of mouth.