97 episodes

The IT Experts Podcast with Ian Luckett, is designed to help ambitious IT/MSP business owners build a profitable tech business.

In this show you will learn the complete tried and tested strategies that are working today as Ian helps techie business owners in the IT / MSP community on a daily basis.

The content of this Podcast is a blend of expert advice and Interviews with some of the most successful people in the industry, offering massive value and a wise range of topics from his MSP profit Builder System.

Whether his guests are experts from large enterprises, established IT/MSP businesses, serial entrepreneurs, or world class techies, they all have great stories and content to share.

So, if you are preparing your IT/MSP business for growth, then we will help by sharing what IS and what ISN'T working in business right now.

Our outcome for you listening to this podcast is that we help you to spend quality time working ON your business rather than being consumed IN it!

The IT Experts Podcast Ian Luckett - The MSP Growth Hub

    • Technology
    • 4.7 • 21 Ratings

The IT Experts Podcast with Ian Luckett, is designed to help ambitious IT/MSP business owners build a profitable tech business.

In this show you will learn the complete tried and tested strategies that are working today as Ian helps techie business owners in the IT / MSP community on a daily basis.

The content of this Podcast is a blend of expert advice and Interviews with some of the most successful people in the industry, offering massive value and a wise range of topics from his MSP profit Builder System.

Whether his guests are experts from large enterprises, established IT/MSP businesses, serial entrepreneurs, or world class techies, they all have great stories and content to share.

So, if you are preparing your IT/MSP business for growth, then we will help by sharing what IS and what ISN'T working in business right now.

Our outcome for you listening to this podcast is that we help you to spend quality time working ON your business rather than being consumed IN it!

    EP174 - Ask Stuart #12 - Why You Don't Need a Salesperson Now ...Or Ever with Ian Luckett & Stuart Warwick

    EP174 - Ask Stuart #12 - Why You Don't Need a Salesperson Now ...Or Ever with Ian Luckett & Stuart Warwick

    Throughout our conversation, Stuart offers -useful tips and sheds light on why, in our opinion, MSPs might not require a salesperson to achieve substantial growth. This viewpoint, while potentially controversial, is grounded in extensive experience and observations within the MSP industry. Stuart argues that for MSPs with a revenue of under £2 million, investing in a salesperson may not be the most efficient or effective strategy to generate new leads and foster business growth. Instead, focusing on marketing strategies, client relationship building, account management, and refining service packages could yield better returns without the need for a dedicated sales role. 

    Stuart highlights something that many MSPs overlook: the importance of understanding your audience and aligning your services to their needs. This approach not only positions your MSP as a problem-solver but also as a partner that understands the unique challenges and opportunities within the sectors you serve. The compound effect of onboarding just one or two ideal clients each year, assuming your service packages are well-designed and profit margins are healthy, can be game-changing for your MSP. 

    We also talked about how MSPs have a natural advantage in the realm of technology-driven marketing platforms. Given that MSPs inherently understand technology, the real challenge lies in mastering the marketing principles that allow for effective use of this technology. By identifying your target audience and crafting messages that resonate with their needs, MSPs can leverage digital marketing, content creation, and social media to build a robust lead generation engine without the traditional salesperson. 

    We also considerthe metrics that matter when evaluating the success of your marketing and business development efforts. Stuart stresses that the ultimate measure of success is not the number of likes or hits but the number of quality leads expressing genuine interest in your services. This focus on quality over quantity and the strategic nurturing of leads can position your MSP for sustainable growth. 

    To sum up, this episode challenges the conventional belief that a salesperson is essential for MSP growth. By utilising targeted marketing, understanding the needs of your audience, and focusing on building strong client relationships, MSPs can achieve remarkable growth without the traditional sales role. It's a thought-provoking discussion that encourages MSPs to reconsider their growth strategies and invest in areas that will truly drive their business forward. 

    Connect with Ian HERE on LinkedIn and also Stuart by clicking this LINK 

    If you’re ready to take the next step in supercharging your MSP, take the Scale with Confidence MSP Mastery Quiz. This tool is designed to help you understand where your MSP stands and what steps you can take to scale profitably and effectively. This will provide you with insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs.    

    OR to join our amazing Facebook Group of over 400 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! 

    • 23 min
    EP173 - Ask Stuart #11 - How Do I Know if I Am Being Successful in My MSP? with Ian Luckett and Stuart Warwick

    EP173 - Ask Stuart #11 - How Do I Know if I Am Being Successful in My MSP? with Ian Luckett and Stuart Warwick

    Having cash in the bank, a steady stream of clients, and a growing team might seem like indicators of success, but as we explore with Stuart, success in the MSP world is much more subjective than it first appears. Our conversation unpicks the complexities of defining and measuring success in a sector where survival can often overshadow strategic growth. 

     When starting your MSP, the initial focus is usually on getting the business off the ground rather than defining what success looks like. This survival instinct, while crucial, can later obscure the true potential of an MSP to evolve into a successful, sustainable business. Stuart explains that to transition from merely surviving to thriving, MSP owners need to take a step back and consider their long-term goals. What does a successful MSP look like for them? Is it about scaling up, achieving financial freedom, or perhaps maintaining a comfortable lifestyle while providing top-notch services? 

    A successful MSP, Stuart argues, is not just about the size but the stability and sustainability of the business. It's about building an asset that not only provides immediate financial rewards but also long-term value. This could mean different things to different owners, whether that's achieving a specific profit margin, securing time for personal pursuits, or ensuring the business can operate efficiently without their constant involvement. 

    Drawing on his experience, Stuart shares several tips for MSP owners to measure and achieve success in their businesses. He advises focusing on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as cash flow, profitability (including gross and net profit margins), new business acquisition, and the growth and retention of existing clients. These metrics, Stuart notes, are fundamental to understanding the health and potential of an MSP, guiding owners toward strategic decisions that align with their definitions of success. 

    One standout piece of advice from Stuart is the application of the Profit First methodology. This approach, which prioritises profit allocation to ensure the financial health of the business and its owners, is a powerful tool for MSPs striving to become successful. By adopting such financial practices, MSP owners can gain clarity on their operations, invest in growth confidently, and, ultimately, achieve the freedom and profit they desire. 

    Throughout our discussion, it becomes clear that a successful MSP is not solely judged by external metrics like size or revenue but by its alignment with the owner's personal and professional aspirations. Stuart highlights the importance of understanding what you want from your business and setting clear, achievable goals that will get you there. 

    It’s important for MSP business owners to reflect on what success means to them and how they can apply Stuart's insights to their MSP business. Whether it's improving financial management, clarifying business objectives, or enhancing operational efficiency, the path to a successful MSP is subjective and deeply personal. 

    Connect with Ian HERE on LinkedIn and also Stuart by clicking this LINK 

    If you’re ready to take the next step in supercharging your MSP, take the Scale with Confidence MSP Mastery Quiz. This will provide you with insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs.    

    OR to join our amazing Facebook Group of over 400 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! 

    • 18 min
    EP172 - Ask Stuart #10 How Do I Get Aligned with My Business Partner with Stuart Warwick and Ian Luckett

    EP172 - Ask Stuart #10 How Do I Get Aligned with My Business Partner with Stuart Warwick and Ian Luckett

    Stuart kicks off the discussion by highlighting the enormity of this challenge, especially for MSPs with multiple directors or partners. He emphasises that alignment isn't just about being on the same team; it's about sharing a vision, strategy, and direction. With various dynamics at play, from differing skill sets to diverse personalities, finding common ground becomes paramount. 

     

    As Stuart delve deeper on the matter, he sheds light on the common scenarios encountered in MSP partnerships. Often, there's a techie partner and a business-savvy one, leading to clashes in priorities and approaches. However, he stresses the importance of complementary skills and clear delineation of roles, whether it's between partners or within a husband-wife team. 

     

    One of the key takeaways from Stuart's insights is the necessity for a shared vision and growth plan. Without a clear roadmap, partners risk pulling in different directions, stunting the growth of their MSP. Stuart underlines the significance of defining success measures, whether it's revenue targets, client acquisition goals, or product penetration rates. 

     

    But it's not just about having a plan; it's about regular communication and accountability. Stuart advocates for a rhythm of review, where partners meet regularly to assess progress, tackle challenges, and recalibrate strategies. This structured approach ensures that partners stay aligned and focused on achieving their shared objectives. 

     

    In addition to communication, Stuart stresses the importance of holding each other accountable. Partners mustn't shy away from addressing issues or avoiding uncomfortable conversations. By confronting challenges head-on, they can overcome obstacles and propel their MSP towards success. 

     

    Wrapping up, Stuart gives us a straightforward advice: get on the same page.  

     

    For MSP partners struggling to find alignment, Stuart suggests seeking external help if needed. Ultimately, by aligning their visions, goals, and actions, partners can unlock the full potential of their MSP and navigate towards greater heights of success. 

     

    Alignment isn't just a one-time task; it's an ongoing journey that requires communication, collaboration, and commitment. 

     

    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 

    Again, if you’re ready to take the next step in supercharging your MSP, take the Scale with Confidence MSP Mastery Quiz. This will provide you with insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs.    

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

    • 17 min
    EP171 - STOP Drowning in Desktops and START Finding Your Missing Minutes with Ian Luckett

    EP171 - STOP Drowning in Desktops and START Finding Your Missing Minutes with Ian Luckett

     
    As Stuart and I have learned firsthand, being an MSP business owner can feel like a constant struggle to find time for strategic growth, client relationships, and even just a moment to breathe. That's why we're here to share some invaluable insights and strategies to help you shift from being a bottleneck to a delegating dynamo, allowing you to build a business that works for you, not the other way around. 

     

    In just two weeks, we've got a game-changing online masterclass coming your way, where we'll be unveiling our secret weapon: the Create More Time formula. Now, normally, this gem is exclusive to members of the MSP Growth Hub, but for this special event, we're opening the doors to everyone. Trust me, you won't want to miss it. 

     

    During the masterclass, we'll dive deep into five key steps, including conducting a time audit, mastering the art of delegation, and cultivating accountability and routines that set you up for success. We'll even tackle the age-old challenge of managing client interruptions, because let's face it, we've all been there. 

     

    So, mark your calendars for Thursday, the 14th of March at 4:00 PM UK time, and get ready to reclaim your time and sanity. This isn't just another webinar – it's an interactive session where you can bring your burning questions and connect with fellow MSPs who are on the same journey as you. 

     

    And hey, if this episode resonates with you (which I'm sure it will), don't keep it to yourself. Share the love with your colleagues who could benefit from a little less overwhelm and a lot more productivity. After all, we're in this together. 

     

    Remember: you're not just a slave to your inbox or a servant to your schedule – you have the power to take back control of your time and your business. So go out there and make it happen. Have a fantastic weekend, and I'll catch you on the flip side. 

     

    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 

    Again, if you’re ready to take the next step in supercharging your MSP, take the Scale with Confidence MSP Mastery Quiz. This will provide you with insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs.    

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

    • 4 min
    EP170 – The Reality of Securing Your MSP in 2024 with Keith Hayes and Ian Luckett

    EP170 – The Reality of Securing Your MSP in 2024 with Keith Hayes and Ian Luckett

    One key takeaway from our conversation with Keith is the importance of taking a proactive approach to security rather than simply relying on reactive measures. Keith emphasises the need for regular checking and monitoring, stressing that security should be someone's whole responsibility within the MSP team. By implementing thorough ticket triage and actively protecting against potential threats, MSPs can instil confidence in their clients and demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding their systems. 

     

    Change control emerges as a fundamental aspect of maintaining security within an MSP environment, according to Keith. Understanding what changes are being made and ensuring they align with regulatory compliance is crucial for mitigating risks and avoiding potential litigation. By establishing robust change control procedures, MSPs can minimise the likelihood of security breaches and protect both their own business and their clients'. 

     

    Moreover, Keith highlights the importance of access control in securing MSP environments. With MSPs being lucrative targets for cyberattacks due to the potential access they hold to multiple clients' systems, it's essential to tighten access controls and implement multi-factor authentication measures. By prioritising access control, MSPs can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorised access and mitigate the impact of potential security breaches. 

     

    During our discussion, Keith also stresses the significance of regular audits and assessments to ensure that internal processes are functioning effectively. By conducting random audits and scrutinising key metrics such as admin account activity and patching success rates, MSPs can identify potential vulnerabilities and address them proactively. This proactive approach not only enhances security but also instils confidence in clients by demonstrating a commitment to ongoing improvement and vigilance. 

     

    Furthermore, Keith advocates for a risk-based approach to client communication and service delivery. By engaging in conversations about clients' business objectives and critical processes, MSPs can tailor their services to meet specific needs and priorities. By aligning service offerings with clients' recovery time objectives (RTO) and recovery point objectives (RPO), MSPs can provide targeted solutions that address clients' most pressing concerns and minimise downtime in the event of a security incident. 

     

    In summary, this episode underscores the importance of proactive security measures and risk-based approaches in the MSP space. By prioritising regular monitoring, robust change control, access management, and client communication, MSPs can enhance their security posture, mitigate risks, and deliver value-added services that meet clients' evolving needs and expectations. 

     

    Connect with Keith Hayes on LinkedIn 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 

    Again, if you’re ready to take the next step in supercharging your MSP, take the Scale with Confidence MSP Mastery Quiz. This will provide you with insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs.    

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

    • 29 min
    EP169 – BF Edition – Maximising MSP Profitability with Ian Luckett

    EP169 – BF Edition – Maximising MSP Profitability with Ian Luckett

    First up, let's talk about the importance of knowing your numbers. I can't stress this enough - understanding your finances inside out is absolutely crucial if you want to achieve long-term success in this game. It's not just about glancing at your bank balance now and then; it's about diving deep into your P&L, getting to grips with your cash flow, and knowing exactly where every penny is coming from and going to. Remember, your bank balance alone does not reflect the true health of your business. By getting a solid grasp on your numbers, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions, identify areas for improvement, and ultimately, boost that MSP profitability. 

     

    Next, let's talk about client analysis. Your clients are the lifeblood of your business, but not all clients are created equal. It's time to take a long hard look at your client base and identify which ones are really driving profitability and which ones might be holding you back. Are there any clients who are consistently draining your resources without providing a decent return? It might be time to have that tough conversation and either renegotiate terms or part ways altogether. By focusing your efforts on the clients that truly value your services and contribute to your bottom line, you'll be well on your way to maximising your MSP profitability. 

     

    And finally, let's not forget the importance of regular client reviews and feedback. Communication is key in any business relationship, and your clients are no exception. Take the time to check in with them regularly, gather feedback on your services, and identify any areas for improvement. Not only will this help you to strengthen your existing client relationships, but it will also provide valuable insights that can inform your future business decisions. After all, happy clients are more likely to stick around and continue contributing to your MSP profitability in the long run. 

     

    So, there you have it, folks - three killer tips for maximizing your MSP profitability. Remember, profitability isn't just about making money; it's about building a sustainable business that works for you. And by following these simple yet effective strategies, you'll be well on your way to achieving just that. 

     

    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 

    Again, if you’re ready to take the next step in supercharging your MSP, take the Scale with Confidence MSP Mastery Quiz. This will provide you with insights and guidance tailored to your specific needs.    

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

    • 10 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
21 Ratings

21 Ratings

mr_christaylor ,

A must listen!!!

Such a great podcast, content is so clear and informative. Thank you Ian and guests!

Szatkowska ,

An MSP Business Coach in your pocket!

Great podcast to help MSP Business owners. A great collection of relevant tips and strategies that are informative and fun!

A must listen if you want to scale your MSP!

GH 1100 ,

Brilliant Podcast Ian

Love this podcast and can’t wait for Monday’s for the new content to help me grow my MSP.

Simple reminders on things I need to focus on to help me out!

Well done Ian 👍

Top Podcasts In Technology

Mission Responsible
RS DesignSpark
Lex Fridman Podcast
Lex Fridman
Acquired
Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthal
Deep Questions with Cal Newport
Cal Newport
All-In with Chamath, Jason, Sacks & Friedberg
All-In Podcast, LLC
The Gatekeepers
BBC Radio 4

You Might Also Like

TubbTalk - The Podcast for IT Consultants
Richard Tubb
Paul Green's MSP Marketing Podcast
Paul Green's MSP Marketing
MSP Business School
MSP Business School
It's a Numbers Game
Daniel Welling
The MSP Zone
mspalliance
No Fluff MSP Marketing
Taher Hamid