What would you pay for "good" onsite technical service?

Vipergrün · 04-01-2006, 07:30 AM

So, I have done the Corporate consulting thing and want to make some play money consulting for the average home computer user. I'd do wire-line and wire-less networking, PC & Mac setup/upgrade, instruction, setup hosting services, repairs, etc. I am thinking $50.00 an hour would be a good place to start. I know places like Circuit ****ty and Best Buy charge a bit more. Would you choose an independent over a large chain? I am tired of working on friend and friends of friends computers for free so I know the business is out there. I can start off knocking on the doors of neighbors whos wifi networks I can jump on

Oh, and I have Mon-Fri basically off and available to do this..

Thanks for your advice and input.

-B

stomachmonkey · 04-01-2006, 07:35 AM

PM me. I can give you some info. There's a lot more potential than $50 an hour.

Scott

Mr_Wizard · 04-01-2006, 08:01 PM

Quote:

There's a lot more potential than $50 an hour

I have to agree. I have been a UNIX/LINUX developer for the past 12 years. Have a side business doing tech support (Wi-Fi, CAT 5/6, routing ect.) I charge $85 /hour. Business is good. Keeps my P-car running and wine cellar stocked and vacations planned (Jamaica next month).

M.D. Holloway · 04-01-2006, 08:05 PM

I have college students that do it for $25 flat fee to set up or trouble shoot - they say the work normally takes about 20 to 40 minutes.

Vipergrün · 04-01-2006, 08:23 PM

thanks for the replies guys!!! I think I'll do a sliding scale depending on the type of work. What do you think about minimum charges? Or would that scare away clients? Then again, in IT it's easy for a one hour job to turn into four, so charging by the job for some things could work too. Scott, sent you a reply. Thanks for your input.

-Brad