Startups

8 Things You Need to Become a Repair Technician

A repair technician, often referred to as a repairman or handyman, is a respected and essential member of society. Oftentimes we’ll find that something breaks in the home, and we have no idea how to fix it. Even if we can find a plethora of online tutorials on the subject, messing with things when you aren’t qualified isn’t really recommended. If you’re thinking of offering your services as a repair technician, you’ll need these 8 things:

1.A Good Tool Kit

You’ll need a selection of good tools to help you complete your work throughout the day. The more you have, the better. You don’t want to have to perform any bodge jobs because you don’t have the right tools! Make sure you have a sturdy box too, and consider keeping it under lock and key.

2.A Vehicle

You’ll need a vehicle to get to your jobs, and it’s up to you which type you prefer. You could drive around in a regular car, or go for a van. A van will allow you to fit more substantial tools and equipment inside.

3.Security Measures in Place

Some thieves try their luck with vans and toolboxes, so make sure you have appropriate security measures in place. Consider tracking systems for vans to keep your vehicle and equipment safe and easily located in the event of a theft.

4.The Right Insurance Cover

You’ll need multiple types of insurance if you’re going to be adequately covered. You’ll need to protect your vehicle and equipment, and if you have a business premises you’ll need to protect that too. You’ll need to have insurance to cover you while you’re in client’s homes too. If you employ people, you’ll need further coverage.

5.A Marketing Strategy

You can’t simply hand out flyers and expect clients to come rolling in. You need a marketing strategy. Handing out flyers can be one part, but you’ll need to advertise in different ways to build up a client base. How will you do it?

6.Good Customer Service

If you don’t have a good attitude towards customer service, your clients won’t feel inclined to work with you again. If you do what you can to make them happy, they’ll give word of mouth recommendations to friends and family.

7.A Head for Business

Friends and family will no doubt ask you to fix things for them, but this is where you need a head for business. You can’t knock too much off the price or do things for free, because you’ll make no money. This is your livelihood, so take it seriously!

8.Communication Skills

You’ll need to communicate to your clients what you are doing clearly and concisely, so there are no crossed wires (pardon the pun). You’ll need to keep them in the loop with what to expect and how much money to expect to pay, otherwise they won’t work with you again.

Got the above 8 things? You’re ready to start offering your services. Good luck!

 

Tom McShane

Tom McShane is a contributing writer for The Startup Magazine