The Pros and Cons of Starting a Computer Training Business

Smiling women at computer in adult education classroom

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Some people are naturally computer-savvy, while others find a challenge in everything computer-related. If you are in the first group and have extensive experience with computers and various computer software, a computer home-based business might be a good small business idea for you.

There are a lot of options for getting starting with a computer training business. You can train others on using both Windows and Macintosh operating systems or you can train people on how to use specific applications. You can provide computer training classes for many people at once or you can train people on an individual basis.

Before moving forward, consider some of the pros and cons, as well as resources with tips for starting your computer training business.

The Pros

With the right experience, a computer training business can be a great option for someone looking to start a business.There is a broad range of potential clients. One-on-one clients might include people who want to get more use and efficiency out of their home computers, or they might include small business owners looking to master software programs such as Microsoft Excel, Adobe Photoshop, or WordPress. Larger business clients might want to bring in a professional to train staff on hardware or software upgrades.

While you can work one-on-one with clients, you also can supplement your income—and gain additional contacts—by offering classes either through local shops that sell hardware and software or through your local community center.

Pay can be relatively lucrative. Payscale.com reports that software trainers can earn between about $40,000 and $80,000 per year. Overhead can be kept to a minimum by working out of a home office. If pursuing partnerships with area stores to provide training classes, you also might be able to work out of that location for a limited number of hours at a reduced rate.

The Cons

Before getting started, make sure you take time to consider some of the challenges that can come with a computer training business so you are prepared.Teaching is not for everybody. No matter how much knowledge or expertise you have with computers, you must have the people skills and patience necessary to transfer that knowledge to others who might not grasp the concepts as well as you do.

The necessary software and equipment can be expensive. Changes in technology happen fast, and to maintain the expertise you need to be successful in training others on computers, you need to have state-of-the-art hardware with all of the latest versions of the software. The prevalence of mobile computing means that includes phones and tablets as well.

Establishing a client base takes a lot of time and hard work. Expect to put in a lot of hours early on simply trying to recruit potential clients. If offering group classes with the hope of attracting potential clients, you might have to consider reduced rates or even free classes in order to establish a reputation as someone individuals and businesses will want to hire.