Will You Need Sales Skills?
Do you want to be really successful? Then yes. You're going to need a range of soft skills.
Most computer technicians aren't salesman; they are from from it, and that is the last thing they'd want to get involved with. However, that is precisely why Geek Squad has been successful - they've bridged the gap between sales and computers. If you are lacking in salesmanship skill and plan on starting up alone, then you're likely going to have a difficult time. Get a mentor, learn the art, or get a partner. Your business depends on someone having this talent.
On that note, dealing with customers eventually includes angry clients, rejection, and other emotionally challenging situations. Entrepreneurship is for the strong-minded and emotionally resilient.
How would you handle the following situations?
- You have just fixed the customer's computer, but he is unwilling to pay.
- The customer is blaming you for losing data that you know you didn't lose
- The customer is blaming you for data that was lost while repairing his computer.
- You are getting more work than you can handle, and your customers want their computer back asap.
- You are getting less work than you expected.
Bottom line: expect all of the above challenges, and work with someone who can complement your skill set if necessary.
