As MSPs finalize their 2022 planning, it would be wise to add one thing to their list if they haven’t already: a peer group. From the increased levels of competition in the market to rapidly evolving cybersecurity needs, MSPs are facing a number of challenges that could hamper their ability to grow their businesses. Whether an informal gathering of MSP business leaders or a formal meeting facilitated by the channel industry organizations, peer group allow MSPs to network, create shared knowledge, and provide accountability. ChannelVision Magazine recently connected with Gary Pica, president of TruMethods, a provider of MSP training and enablement, to discuss how a peer group can help MSPs implement industry best practices and turn 2022’s challenges into opportunities for growth. ChannelVision: Why should MSPs join a peer group? Gary Pica: I believe every business owner should be part of a peer group. Running a business can be like an echo chamber where our perspectives and beliefs are limited by our experiences. Being part of a peer group helps widen those perspectives and raises expectations. CV: What kind of peer mentor groups exist? GP: There are general business peer groups that are usually local or regional. These can be valuable to share and learn from other business leaders. Then there are industry peer groups, which give you the ability to do valuable benchmarking for financial and operational metrics. You can share processes and perspectives that are specific to the business you’re in. All IT providers need to be in an industry peer group. As the security landscape, the economy, and customer technology needs change, it’s critical to stay close to how these shifts impact your business. Industry peer groups are the best way to take advantage of the evolving landscape. CV: What advice do you have for MSPs on how to find a group that’s right for them? GP: If you are looking for an IT industry peer group, look for a group that has members that have done, or are doing, what you would like to accomplish. Be sure there is valuable benchmarking and a strong accountability process. CV: What considerations must MSPs make prior to joining a peer group? GP: Be sure you are prepared for the time commitment. The best peer groups are a commitment of time and energy. You get what you put in. I have participated and run MSP peer groups for over 20 years and have seen a positive impact on business leaders and their teams. If there is one thing you can do to make the most impact in 2022, it would be participating in a n industry peer group. o PEER TO PEER TruMethods’ Gary Pica CHANNEL MANAGEMENT Discussing the value or MSP peer networking 32 CHANNELV ISION | JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2022
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTg4Njc=