A computer crash can be catastrophic! That’s why great computer technicians are like superheroes, swooping in to save the day –and data and files and maybe even someone’s job! Do you have the super skills of a great computer technician? Here’s what you need:
You need to know your stuff. If you’re reading this, you already love computers, right? You’ve always been fascinated by what they can do and how they work. Maybe you’ve added memory to your own computer or you’re the one your friends call to hook up their printers. You just get it! That’s good, but if you want to be a great computer technician, you’ll need to step it up a notch. You’ll need training on the latest hardware, software, operating systems and diagnostic tools used in the industry. You’ll need to know how to install, configure and manage everything that makes computers and their networks work.
You need to be a good communicator. If a client comes to you with a broken computer, your first step can’t be opening it up and getting inside. You need to listen to what they think the problem might be. Ask them what happened –and what’s not happening. Ask them when it all started. Was it an all-out crash or do they fear that one is about to happen? What kind of screen were they looking at and what error messages did they receive. The better you listen, the better you’ll understand the computer and the level of frustration your customer might be feeling. And when you set to fixing what’s wrong, you need to let your customer know what you’re doing in a language they’ll understand.
You need to be detail-oriented, well-organized and thorough. Computers are machines that require an exacting method of repair. If you want to be a great computer technician, get in the habit of performing maintenance and repair tasks in a set order. Don’t jump over steps. Write down the problems your customer has told you about and check each one off as you solve it. But don’t forget to look for other problems your client may have missed. Remember, you’re the expert! And before you leave, make certain that everything is in proper working order and that you explain to your customer all the work you performed.
You need to be professional. Your appearance, attitude and professionalism all matter. Do your best to show up for every appointment on time but if you’re running late, make a call and let the customer know. If you wear a uniform, make certain it’s clean and neat. Consider every appointment as if it were a mini job interview. Introduce yourself, make eye contact and offer a firm handshake. Everything you do in your work environment is a reflection upon you and your company. A good impression can go a long way to helping you get a call back for more work or a glowing recommendation that could lead to more clients.
If you want to get the knowledge and skills that you’ll need to be a great computer technician, check out the Information Technology programs at Charter College. We’ll teach you the fundamentals of the industry, along with the real world skills that will help you get started in the profession. Add your natural talents and abilities, along with plenty of experience, and you could become a great computer technician! If you’re ready to change your life, start here.
