I met Jeff Norensky many years ago when we were both on a committee at the Syracuse Chamber of Commerce that worked on educational seminars.

1. What is Microtech Computers?

MicroTECH Computer Center, we provide IT services to business clients.

2. What made you decide to go into this business?

We have been in the computer business for 25 years, and went into it in its infancy assuming that it would grow rapidly.

3. What types of challenges have you had along the way?

Our business has become extremely competitive in regard to selling computer products. Some of our customers want us to compete with mail-order and Internet pricing for computers, yet they also want us to be available if something doesn't work properly. So, they would like to have an on-site warranty, and mail-order pricing, which really is not economically feasible.

4. Have the positives outweighed the negatives, and if so, how?

There have been many times that I questioned my decision to own my own company, and felt obligated to continue on for my staff. But, each year it has gotten better and I now have a stable and rewarding business, but it took many, many years to reach this point.

5. What would you recommend for anyone looking to go into business for themselves?

I would not recommend anybody go into a business selling a commodity product. And, only go into business if they have a somewhat unique product or special skill that they can market. If selling a product that is readily available through numerous sources, there will be someone that buys for less than you do, and sells at a ridiculous margin, which makes it hardly profitable if you choose to compete on price.