Starting Your Concierge Business: Conquering The Technology Fear Factor

If you’re a new small business owner you’re facing many situations for the first time. It’s easy to second guess yourself, or even worse become immobilized by your fears. Well, in the next few posts we’re going to identify and tackle what’s holding you back. Huge rewards await you when you push past the fears that are holding you back.

 Fear of technology

As a new business owner you must become proficient in the basics of technology in your business. This is especially true for new concierge business owners. For instance, when you master the bells and whistles of your smartphone, know how to use mobile apps for billing, have the expertise to create searchable databases, etc. you’ll save hours and hours of time each month.

By and large you can expect your concierge customers to be proficient in using the latest technology and they’ll expect the same from you. Whether it’s a website with e-commerce capabilities, or a mobile app they can access to book services, or simply texting you with their immediate requests–you need to feel comfortable with the same technology your customers are using.

 Where can you turn for help?

 Start first with your cell phone provider and the company you’ve purchased your devices from. Basic instruction and group classes are almost always free. For specific training they’ll usually offer more advanced classes or one-on-one tutoring for a small fee. I’m a huge fan of Apple’s training programs in their retail stores. They have a huge variety of free one-hour workshops from the basics of getting started with your Mac, iPhone, or iPad, to using the cloud to store and retrieve your documents. Large chains like Best Buy and MicroCenter also offer in-store, in-home, and online training.

Technically-savvy (and patient) friends can also be a God-send when you want a quick tutorial.

For specific questions you have about how to use an app to meet your needs, or how to get the most out of a specific program–do an online search. There are all kind of user groups that give advice. YouTube is a great resource for video instruction.

 

It’s always wise to know what you don’t know and do whatever it takes to get comfortable. Don’t be shy or self conscious–you’re smart to face down your technology fears and do what it takes to conquer them.

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