With a growing trend towards managed services, many IT techs are leaning strongly into the MSP play field. And while some existing break-fix providers are looking to make the switch, others are just beginning to explore the MSP space.
One of the first steps to starting a managed service provider business is creating a UVP, or unique value proposition. This is the core of your marketing and sales strategy, and it should help distinguish you from competitors. For example, a UVP might be “simplify IT operations to reduce costs” or “accelerate adoption of next-gen technologies.”
As you develop your UVP, it’s also important to outline your sales process. Having a repeatable set of steps will help you close new clients and ensure that your team is operating as efficiently as possible. A best practice is to record all your sales conversations, so that you can train new reps on your specific approach.
Another crucial step is to choose the right managed service provider for your needs. It’s critical to evaluate a potential provider’s financial stability, as well as their ability to meet your organization’s goals and objectives. You can check for this by searching for press releases, asking for financial statements, or requesting references.
Lastly, it’s important to select an MSP that offers a robust Service Governance framework. This will ensure consistency and visibility in the quality of services that you receive from your MSP. It’s also helpful to avoid an MSP that charges by the hour, as this can lead to unwarranted expenses.