Being Kind to Computer Network Support

Let's admit it, when you call your computer network support team, you're already at your wits end. Something is broken or isn't working correctly, you can't figure it out and all you want is for the darn thing to work so you can get on with it. We've all been there. Unfortunately for those working on the computer networking services end of this, they can't just magically tell you how to fix it. First, you're going to need to talk to them about it.

Instead of refusing to rehash details and just repeat "it's broken, it doesn't work" to the business IT support agent on the other end of the phone, you might consider actually being friendly and helpful to them. It isn't that they won't fix your computer if you aren't friendly, (and in many cases, people are not) but that it's just the right thing to do and will facilitate a better relationship, which, given how intrinsic technology is to most aspects of business, is something you really want to have.

When you call your computer network support team, you should make notes, at least mental ones, as to the useful details as to what actually happened. You should be prepared to tell them what you were attempting to do, not just what happened, as that may make a difference to them. Details are your friend- tell them about the error message that you saw, the last key you hit, or what color the computer screen turned before it stopped working completely.

Lastly, remember that even if your company has chosen to hire an outside company to handle all the IT needs, you should still treat these people as if they were coworkers. Have a little respect for the people keeping your business online and operational, and you'll do a far sight better in your communications with them. In fact, if you are working for a company that is struggling to handle their computer network support needs, you might consider suggesting that rather than attempt an in-house team, they might choose instead to hire another company whose main focus is providing computer networking services.

One last important hint for interaction with the folks who are taking care of IT support- always do what they say. That means not pushing the red button, or restarting until an upgrade was finished, or not turning off a device that they want left on, and switching to the programs they want you to use. It can be difficult to take directions, but trust me, it will be well worth your while!

Written by Mel Bryson. Remote and local business IT support provided by Computer Answers computer networking services. Get computer network support for your business on http://www.computer-answers.com