Earlier this week, I introduced you to a new Google service called Helpouts which let’s you use your webcam to connect with an expert to get help on topics ranging from Fitness and Nutrition to Arts and Music.
I’ve taken to the liberty to browse through and corral what I think are the best Google Helpouts based on the experts reputation, user reviews, and background.
The purpose of this post is just to whet your appetite for Google Helpouts so you can get comfortable using it in the future.
Here we go!
1. Chris Hubbell
Let’s start with the best of the best: Chris Hubbell.
A true geek at heart, he is currently a Service Manager for a technical support firm based out of White Plains, NY called Geeksontime. He has 19 years of experience with computers and has an excellent reputation. Just read his reviews and you’ll see lots of people rhapsodizing about his technical dexterity and affable personality (rare to find both these days).
Unfortunately, even though this Helpout is free, it’s currently “sold out” meaning it’s temporarily full. But despite being unavailable, I would keep my eye on Chris because it looks like he has a lot to offer and has an uncanny knack for giving quick answers.
2. Michael Cina
Michael Cina is the CEO of ScotPlanet, an IT firm that provides technical support, management and consultancy services to its customers. He has over 15 years of experience helping people with technology needs. He is also a Microsoft certified technician.
I checked his schedule for the rest of the month and it looks like he prefers afternoon sessions on Sundays and Tuesdays through Wednesdays.
Everyone says he’s knowledgeable; in fact, one person gleamed that Michael did such a good job fixing his Outlook issue that he felt bad that the service was free!
3. Keenan Jones
Mac lovers rejoice because Google has a Helpout just for you.
When you have a problem with your iPod, iPad, iMac, or iPhone Keenan should be your go to choice.
He has over 10 years of experience working with computers and hold a strong specialty for Mac Products. You can check out his website to get more information about him.
4. Aaron Hanson
I wish I knew about Aaron before I started this website!
Hanson well help you get started with everything from basic WordPress stuff (such as adding posts) to theme configuration and CSS tweaking. He can also help you with Search Engine Optimization (SEO) so your site ranks higher in major search engines.
Before Google Helpouts came along Arron had a good reputation helping people with WordPress in 3-4 hour seminars. He has 7 years of experience as a PHP and WordPress Developer and has a comprehensive knowledge of jQuery, Git, SASS and a whole lot more.
I strongly recommended Aaron for WordPress newbies. If you’re afraid to start a website because you don’t know how to program or just don’t know what to do, give Aaron a shot before you give up.
5. Matt Lynch
Everyone has a mobile device these days so it’s nice to know Matt is around to help you get your iOS and Droid working again.
He doesn’t offer support for Blackberry, but let’s be real here, if you have a Blackberry you should just get rid of it. Blackberry used to have a descent product a few years ago but lately the quality of their products have suffered and the software is way too buggy. I know because I was an avid Blackberry users for seven years before I tossed my phone for a Galaxy S4.
Think of Matt like a friend you can consult when you have a problem with your mobile device.
The Bottom Line
I think Google is providing true value to the world with Google Helpouts. There are dozens of free Helpouts and dozens of people all around the world are already benefiting from them.
In today’s post, I showed you the top 5 free Helpouts. The next time you have a computer problem and need a solution, just schedule an appointment with Chris, Michael, Keenan, Aaron or Matt. I bet they’ll beat an any Apple Genius in a showdown…
So what do you guys think of this? Have you used any of the free Google Helpouts yet? What do you think of the service?
Let me know in the comments!