For businesses that do not have in-house IT support, IT service providers can be a huge benefit—and cost-effective! However, there are certain mistakes to avoid when choosing an ideal IT service provider
As a business owner, you can’t afford to be casual about something as important as partnering with an IT service provider. If you want to avoid trouble down the road, there are some red flags to be aware of when considering your options.
Here are 4 mistakes to avoid when choosing an IT service provider for your business.
1. Choosing an IT service provider without speaking to several of their current clients
You should never hire an IT service provider without doing at least a basic background check. Speak to a few of their current and past clients to get accurate feedback around the company’s work ethic, performance, and professionalism.
If the IT service provider is reluctant or unable to provide you with credible and verified customer testimonials and referrals, that is a cause for concern and a red flag indicating that they are not a good fit for your business.
2. Choosing an IT services provider after a single phone call
One phone call does not give you enough information to choose a proper partner to manage your network. There needs to be a clear discussion on what you expect them do for your business. Along with a list of expectations so there is no room for confusion or ambiguity.
We recommend you schedule an in-person meeting and ask that they provide you with a written proposal. At this stage, a professional and ethical IT service provider will always suggest you let them carry out an audit of your network. This will help them arrive at an accurate and thorough diagnosis of what is ailing your network system before giving you a quote.
Any IT service provider that doesn’t offer to carry out a network analysis and diagnosis before quoting their price is one that you should steer clear of!
3. Choosing an IT services provider that cannot remotely support, monitor, and update your network system
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a business owner is to hire an IT service provider that is unable to support, monitor, and update your business’s network system remotely. This capability is absolutely crucial. Because while working on-site is necessary at certain times, working remotely allows for faster resolution of critical problems, saving you both money and time.
4. Choosing an IT service provider that does not take initiative and is not proactive
Your business deserves an IT service provider that takes the initiative to prevent problems, instead of troubleshooting after they’ve already occurred. A proactive MSP will communicate with you ahead of time before issues may occur. Keeping your system and its software updated regularly will promote a healthy network.
An IT service provider that is lax and careless with your system will cost you in the long run, if not financially then definitely on an operational level. So, be sure to choose a competent, reliable, and professional IT service provider for the success of your business.
We’re Here to Help
MicroAge has been providing business, educational, and government organizations in the greater Kingston region with cutting edge IT services and solutions since 1981.
Our company stands on the pillars of innovation, integrity, trust, and teamwork. It is our belief that by working together with your team and staying committed to your vision, we chart a path of great success for your business.
Call us today at 613-384-4141 or visit our website to request a free consultation.
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