Darren kicks things off by emphasizing the critical importance of having a Unique Selling Proposition (USP) in the MSP sector. In a market saturated with providers, standing out is a challenge, and your USP is your secret weapon. Often, MSPs fall into the trap of offering generic USPs like quick response times or dedicated account managers. Darren advises us to dig deeper. He suggests that we ask our existing clients what made them choose our services and what they value most. This feedback can uncover the unique strengths that can set your business apart. 

 

But having a USP is just the beginning; it must be embedded within the very culture and operations of your company. Darren suggests creating a service catalogue that outlines precisely how your USP is consistently delivered across all aspects of your business. This not only ensures clarity but also helps build trust with your team and clients alike. 

 

Then we tackle a challenge many of us are facing in the post-pandemic world: managing a hybrid workforce, where some employees are remote, and others are in the office. Darren offers some valuable insights into how to maintain an engaged and connected workforce in this scenario. One tip for getting everyone involved, whether in the office or remote, is to act as if they are all remote. In meetings for example, it's crucial to ensure that everyone has the same experience. By having everyone join the meeting remotely, you create an equal footing, fostering better engagement among team members. 

 

Throughout our conversation with Darren, the recurring theme is the need for consistency and execution. He stresses that building a scalable and profitable MSP is a journey that requires a long-term commitment. Quick wins and shiny new toys might be tempting, but the real key is maintaining consistent messaging and execution. Darren's advice is to plan your value creation over a minimum of five years, ensuring that your entire team is aligned with your mission. 

 

We then circle back to the heart of service delivery and the MSP industry. Darren reminds us that an MSP needs to be a sales and marketing-focused business, not just a technical one. The success of your business is intricately linked to your USP. It's not enough to claim that you're different; you need to prove it through your actions. Trust and belief in your operations are essential for your sales team to effectively communicate your USP to potential clients. 

 

Darren highlights the common mistake of offering generic USPs, such as speedy response times or long-term partnerships. These clichéd claims won't set you apart from your competitors. Instead, he advises us to delve deeper into what makes us unique. This is where your existing clients can be invaluable. Ask them why they chose your services, and let their feedback guide the development of your USP. 

 

Darren encourages MSPs to think long-term. Building a scalable and profitable MSP is a journey that requires planning, consistency, and execution. Don't be swayed by quick wins; stay true to your mission and ensure that every aspect of your business, from culture to operations, reflects your unique selling proposition. Your USP is your beacon in the crowded MSP industry, and by aligning your entire team with it, you'll be well on your way to success. 

 

Connect with Darren Strong on his LinkedIn by clicking HERE 

Or you can also check out Scalable MSP through their website by clicking HERE 

 

Connect with me on LinkedIn and see what I'm up to by clicking HERE  To join our amazing Facebook Group of over 300 MSPs where we are helping you Scale Up with Confidence, then click HERE 

 

Until next time, look after yourself and I’ll catch up with you soon!