Finding the right IT support partner for your business is a huge responsibility that will take time and careful research. If you take on this task without being prepared, expect that you’ll probably take longer than what you’re currently expecting. However, there’s an easier way of finding the right IT partner for your business. Take it from us, we’re a managed IT service and IT support company in Austin, Texas and we know just how to make this process more efficient and effective for you.
Hiring The Right IT Support Partner
Before you begin your search, think about why you’re looking for an IT partner anyways. If you’re stuck dealing with IT issues on your own, the inconvenience and downtime are costing you more than you think. Don’t believe me? Just download our white paper – The True Cost of Downtime. We go into detail the true cost of downtime and what it really costs your business. Think about the current pain points you’re experiencing with the IT in your business and what you’ll expect is covered by your new IT partner. It’s best to make a plan and create a one-sheet information detail about your company name, location, and size, the current IT challenges you face, and what your expectations are of your new IT partner.
An example of a good one-sheet information detail is:
- Your Company Name: Austin Healthcare Provider
- The Industry You’re In: Healthcare
- Number of Employees You Have: 18
- Where You’re Located: 123 Main Street Austin, Texas 78701
- An IT challenge I face is the security of my computers and network.
- Another IT challenge I have is keeping my data backed up.
- One last IT challenge I’m experiencing is dealing with frequent IT interruptions due to unexpected outages and Internet connectivity issues.
Now that you’re prepared, begin your search by asking for a referral from your network. Most people are happy to give you a referral of an IT company they use and are satisfied with. Another good place to look is by doing a Google search but be sure you research the company and browse their site. Get at least 5 IT companies of interest and prepare to start making calls.
Know When, How, and What to Ask a Potential IT Partner
With your short list – the top 5 names of companies that best align with your business, make a list of questions you plan on asking them. Besides going over your one-sheet information detail, know how to ask questions that will elicit a genuine response, what to ask, and when you’ll ask them. By knowing exactly what you’ll ask, you’ll drive the call and get passed any sales person non-sense speeding up the process. Narrow your search down to 2 potential IT partners, then schedule a free network and IT needs assessment at your office, on your terms, and at your convenience.
Making a Decision On an IT Company
Once you’ve selected a candidate, set your expectations of them early on and let them know it. If there’s an agreement, read the document entirely and be sure the agreement is mutual. Keep in mind you’ll be working with this IT company and they’ll be supporting the IT of your business so it’s best to be as transparent and upfront as possible. A good healthy business relationship is mutually beneficial to both your company and the IT partner you’ve selected.
I hope you’re as excited as we are to helping you find the right IT partner for your business. To help get you started, we’ve written an eBook to assist you with finding the right IT partner for your company, saving you time and energy.