Tips For Talking To Tech Support

If you've ever had a computer problem and needed help, you know that it can sometimes be very difficult, not to mention frustrating, to get good tech support. Good communication is the key ingredient, from both parties, to reaching a solution. These tips will help get the most from a tech support conversation.

Check The Obvious
Before calling the gurus, do a simple check of all power cords, switches and cables. Sometimes something as simple as a loose plug could be the culprit.

Refer To The Manual
Many computer product manufacturers will have a troubleshooting guide in the manual or Help file.

Remain Calm
Relax! In order to convey your problem and receive the appropriate help, you should keep a level head. Whatever you do, don't take out your stress on the tech person. They are only there to help.

Document
Write down any relevant information. Error messages, specifics about the make/model of your computer, or any little detail you noticed. If the computer is making beeps or certain lights are flashing, make note of that. The clearer you can present to problem, the quicker you'll get a fix.

Demonstrate
If your tech person is on-site, then physically show them what happened to cause the problem, or what isn't working correctly. If you're calling for phone support, be sure to have the phone close to computer so you can read the screen or type commands given by the tech person.

Log Information
Write down all the pertinent information relating to the tech support conversation; who you spoke with, when you called, what happened and the advice given. This will expedite things if you need to call back, fix the problem in the future or if you received poor support and should need to complain about the service