I'm starting my own business.

[BloodyWilliam]

I'm in the process of starting my own computer services business. I'll do all sorts of things (training, tech support, consulting), but I'm really going to try to sell consumer advising service. My goal is to charge people $40 (or more, depending on the extent of the service) to meet with them, discuss their technology needs, then find the best deal for them. I'll get people to "Spend a little to save a lot" with me. I'm still in college, but I have the benefit of a socialist geek upbringing- I was raised on computer magazines and Consumer Reports and, if I may say, am damn good at finding the best price for things. Many people don't even know what computer or electronics are right for them, and I haven't heard too much about this service being marketed toward consumers, so I'm hoping I can find a good market.

I'm in the process of getting a consultation with the local small business center and getting my DBA and NY sales tax forms. Beyond that, as far as I can tell, I'll be legally set to do business in this state and can work on the other details- marketing, insurance, etc.

I'm starting on an extreme shoestring budget- I'll be guerilla advertising with flyers and business cards. Still, I'm hoping I can get this to work.

Any small business DUers here with tips on how to start? Details: I'm still in college and living in a dorm (sigh) and have a very very small budget.

[proud patriot]

1. contacts and informational interviews

with people in the business before you start .

get a license , and jump in :hi: good luck

[SoCalDem]

2. Rent-A-Geek

I sometimes "rent" my computer savvy friends.. That the best way to learn what you need to without having to commit to weekly classes (Borrrrrrring:)..)

You might put up flyers at grocery stores, laundromats..

I hope you do well:)

If I lived close to you, you could teach me photoshop :)

[madrchsod]

3. dam

if you lived in an apt. or house you can take huge tax deductions. you`ll need alot of time and effort if you don`t have alot of money. i`ve had my own business on and off since the early 80`s and have found is that you need enough money to start and keep going untill you build up customers and referalls. it takes time but it`s worth it. always remember to call back on your customers..service after the sale is the most important thing in business.
with the "service centers" going overseas you may be on the start of a new trend that could be a money maker,that`s something i really couldn`t comment on but look into it. hey good luck-there`s nothing better than working for yourself.