In today's business environment, an understanding of computer networking and telecommunications is often essential. However, most business owners have an intimate knowledge of their relevant industry rather than a background in technology. Therefore, if you're hiring a new IT support team and you don't even know what questions to ask, start with the following.

What Should You Ask a Prospective IT Support Company?

1. Can You Explain a Relevant Technology in Simple Terms?

Many technology experts spend much of their time communicating with people who share their interests, which enables them to use industry jargon. However, if you and your management team aren't tech literate, you'll want to hire a team that can communicate effectively to non-experts. Ask your candidates to explain a technological concept to you as if you knew nothing about the subject. The better they do, the better they'll likely be at explaining technical issues that arise in the future.

2. What Types of Cybersecurity Measures Do You Recommend?

Arguably the most crucial function of an IT support team is to secure your company's network and sensitive data against intrusion and malware. As a result, the response to this question should include spam filters, measures to prevent virus and spyware infiltration, the installation of firewall technology, and access management through password protection and authentication. Similarly, ask what steps they would take after the network suffers a data breach.

3. What Tech Products Do You Love? Which Do You Hate?

These questions let you gauge the candidate's knowledge and enthusiasm about their field. Presumably, their most and least favorite products should cause them to become animated and could spark an illuminating conversation. If they don't mention products your company uses, drop the name of a product or two into the discussion to see how they feel about them. It's usually better if your employees like and respect the tools you use, though a great candidate may convince you why you should switch products.

If you’d rather outsource your IT support needs, get in touch with Hamilton Business Technology Consulting, LLC. They serve clients throughout Greater Charlotte, NC, specializing in business phone systems, high speed internet, network monitoring, and PCI compliance. Visit their website to request a quote, or call (704) 445-4804 to arrange a consultation.