Careers Column: Becoming a Tech Service Provider

Welcome to the Career Column, your go-to space for discovering exciting and attainable jobs that you can explore as a side hustle or new career path. Whether you're seeking to earn extra income or embark on a fresh journey, this column aims to inspire your next move.

This edition, we are focusing on turning your tech skills into a home-based business.

In today’s world, almost every household relies on technology, from smartphones to Wi-Fi routers and smart TVs. For many South Africans, especially those living in townships or the abantu abadala, understanding how to set up or troubleshoot devices can feel daunting. If you are someone who loves technology and enjoys helping others, you could turn these skills into a small but profitable side hustle.

As a home tech support provider, you can help people install Wi-Fi networks, set up smartphones, tablets, or laptops, assist with software updates, and even teach basic digital skills. Many clients will pay for one-on-one support at home because it saves them the frustration of figuring things out themselves. You don’t need formal qualifications, what matters most is practical experience, patience, and a willingness to solve problems.

Getting started

·       Offer your services locally: Start with neighbours, family, or community members. Word of mouth is powerful, and once people trust you, referrals will grow your business.

·       Advertise on social media and community boards: Platforms like Facebook Marketplace, WhatsApp groups, and local notice boards are great for reaching clients.

·       Set clear rates: Charge per task or per hour. Even small amounts can add up quickly, especially if you serve multiple households in your area.

·       Free resources for learning and certification: You can improve your credibility and skills by taking online courses. Some free options include:

·       Google Digital Skills for Africa: Free courses on digital literacy, tech troubleshooting, and online marketing (learndigital.withgoogle.com/digitalskills)

·       Cisco Networking Basics: Free courses on network setup and troubleshooting (netacad.com)

·       Microsoft Learn: Free tutorials on Windows, Office, and general tech support (learn.microsoft.com)

·       Coursera and edX: Many free beginner courses on IT fundamentals and computer literacy (coursera.org, edx.org).

Freelance platforms for extra income

Once confident in your skills, you can also take on small tech support jobs online:

·       Upwork (upwork.com)

·       Fiverr (fiverr.com)

·       Freelancer (freelancer.com)

Even if your clients are local, having an online profile can increase credibility and attract higher-paying opportunities.

Start small, focus on building trust, and continuously improve your skills. Many South Africans have turned basic tech knowledge into a reliable income source, and with smartphones, laptops, and Wi-Fi becoming a necessity, there is a growing demand for affordable, home-based tech support.

Helping people navigate technology is not just a job, it’s a chance to empower your community while earning an income.