The way MSPs target prospects has evolved. Using a one-size-fits-all approach is no longer the most effective option for MSPs. With this change also comes a chance to try out new approaches to build your audience and increase brand awareness.
Personalizing your marketing messaging and promoting your value proposition on specific online and offline channels can help you grow your MSP’s audience. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
- Find networking groups in your communities. Building relationships with professionals in your community is one of the most effective ways to build an audience. The probability of closing deals is higher when you create relationships with business leaders in your community. Many of them are the buyers you’re targeting or can refer you to prospects. Getting in with them can open endless opportunities for your business. For instance, join a local networking group, like Business Network International (BNI), which is the largest small business networking and referral group worldwide. By joining these types of groups, you will improve your networking abilities, meet key partners and generate referrals. You don’t have to tackle your marketing efforts alone. You can join a peer group in the MSP space if you’re willing to put in the work, such as TruPeer by TruMethods.
- The power of social media is undeniable. Everyone is on social media these days. Governments, companies, celebrities, musicians, business leaders, pets — everybody. With more than 59% of the world’s population online, there are significant opportunities for you to promote your products and services on these platforms, where you can reach a substantial chunk of potential buyers. The first step is choosing the right social media tools for your business. This depends on your business and the location of your target customers. Are many of your customers on Facebook and LinkedIn? If so, you may want to focus less time and resources on Twitter. Building and engaging your audiences takes time, but there are a few strategies you may want to consider to speed up the process, including responding to comments and mentions promptly, sharing content posted by others in the industry, running contests and giveaways, and promoting your social profiles on your website and in emails. Keeping your followers engaged is crucial to maintaining and expanding your audience. When done efficiently and consistently, you may even see an increase in your monthly recurring revenue due to these efforts.
- Email marketing is not outdated. Email marketing is so much more than just casually reaching out to a list of subscribers. Email marketing keeps your business top of mind. For instance, you may want to try sending out a monthly newsletter to educate your audience. Keep in mind that you’ll want to focus on adding educational pieces of content into your newsletter and include fewer sales pushes. Incorporate content that expresses your expertise on cybersecurity, ransomware, phishing, Microsoft 365, etc.
Connecting with target prospects may seem challenging for MSPs but try implementing some of the above-mentioned approaches to get started. Some trial and error may be needed to find your rhythm, but once you find strategies that work for you, everything will fall into place.