A managed service provider is responsible for delivering a range of services to their clients, often remotely. The services can include network and systems management, backup and disaster recovery, to help desk and desktop support.
So, how do you go about marketing your MSP business? Your methods depend on your budget and target. Regardless of the channel you follow, your goal should be to create content that educates your audience on the benefits of working with an MSP and converting them.
This blog will guide you through some of the best ways to market your MSP business. Each stage is vital, and the order of importance may change based on your specific business. It is necessary to follow a path that fits you.
1. Define Your Target Customer
Understanding who your target customer is is crucial. It will determine what kind of content you create, which channels you use, and how you position your business.
You cannot market effectively without knowing your target customer. The information you have about your target will also help you create unique services and solutions to match their needs.
Your target customer is not everyone; it is a specific group of people interested in your business model. You would need to identify your niche first. MSP is quite broad, and narrowing your offering will help you focus on better customer service, delivery, and marketing.
Once you understand your target customer, create buyer personas, a fictional character to represent your target customer. It includes demographic information like age, sex, income level, and occupation. Also, use psychographic data such as interests and needs. It will help you understand what content to produce to appeal to them.
For example, if you target small businesses, your content might focus on the cost savings with MSP over hiring in-house staff. If targeting hospitals or large corporations, your content might focus on the security benefits of working with an MSP.
2. Content Marketing
This method is effective and affordable to market your MSP business. The strategy involves creating valuable blog posts, infographics, videos, eBooks, and other types of content that educate your audience on the benefits of working with an MSP.
Your content should target clients interested in marketing as a managed service to supplement an in-house staff. As you produce this content, ensure to include a CTA that directs readers to a landing page.
Also, stay consistent with your content marketing efforts, and promote your content across your social media channels. It will help you reach a larger audience and generate more leads for your business.
3. Search Engine Optimization
Another great way to market your MSP business is through SEO. This method involves optimizing your website and blog content to rank higher in Google and other search engines.
To do this, you need appropriate keywords throughout your website and blog posts. You can use tools like Google AdWords Keyword Planner to find the right keywords for your business. But avoid keyword stuffing because it can lead to a penalty.
Hiring professional digital marketing agencies in Los Angeles ensures a well-structured website and high-quality and relevant content. Better website and content structure will rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). You will get more traffic to your website and ultimately more leads for your business.
4. Social Media Engagement
At least 56.8% of the world’s population is on social media. That makes up 93.33% of all internet users. So, it is no surprise that social media engagement is one of the best ways to market your MSP business.
Several social media platforms enable you to engage with potential clients, such as Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. The goal is to find the network where your target audience hangs out and then create valuable content that educates them on the benefits of working with an MSP.
Also, consider running social media ads to reach a larger audience. Ensure you target your ads well to avoid wasting money on impressions that never convert into leads. Since MSP services fall under the B2B umbrella, you may need to focus more on LinkedIn advertising.
To engage your audience, reply to their comments, questions, and criticism. Be prudent in how you handle customer reviews, as that will have a direct impact on customer trust and conversions.
5. Networking
Connecting with people of the same interests can help you market your MSP business. Networking events are a perfect place to start. You can meet potential clients, partners, and even employees. Attending industry events and tradeshows is one of the best ways to network with people in your field. You can also join relevant online communities and events to boost your reach.
When networking, be sure to bring your business cards and be prepared to talk about your MSP business. Have a 60-second elevator pitch ready that covers the main benefits of working with your company.
Make sure you follow up with the contacts you make after meeting them at the event. Also, do not forget to connect with them on social media and stay in touch. Networking can help you build long-term relationships that can result in higher conversions.
Conclusion
Marketing your MSP business can be challenging. However, you can reach a larger audience and generate more leads using appropriate methods. Try to understand your customer’s needs and wants and tailor your marketing efforts to meet them. Be consistent with your content marketing, SEO, and social media engagement efforts. Also, network with people in your industry to build relationships that result in business opportunities.
