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Becoming a solution provider

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by dinotech

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After spending 4+ years as a help desk professional, I have decided to pursue my own business in becoming a solution provider. However, before I start down that road, I need to know from veteran consultants what it takes to secure that first client.

Since my background is in support, that is what i am primarily going to provide: customer support for networks and systems, consultation on equipment purchasing and upgrading, and purchasing.

I completed an internship with the State of Washington Department of Licensing in 1995, where I assisted the purchasing manager in the bid process. I learned a lot about vendor relations and even learned when a vendor didn't want to play in that particular bid (you can tell by the way they write thebid and the amounts).

So I have some experience, however, I have about a quarter left for my General Studies degree at South Puget Sound Community College. And I am taking my first MCP certification exam at the beginning of June (Windows XP). Ihave a good understanding of computer networking, routing, and design. Now I need an internship in that area to provide the experience.

Any advice would be helpful.

Thanks

Dinotech

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by jreeter

Knowledge, the ability to use resources, people skills, never know all the answers but be willing to research a problem. The ability to actually judge how much time a project will take. Always leave an out on project time the unexpected will always get you.
Do not prostitute your job, set a hourly price, give a estimate, get half or more up front, use quality products, do not let them nickel and dime you. It is your reputation stick with your products and your price. GIVE FREE SYSTEM EVALS,
remember every year they need a budget and direction for planned growth, this will GET & KEEP the client.

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