In a recent podcast episode, Sunny welcomed two prominent leaders in the MSP (Managed Service Provider) industry, Michelle Accardi and Victoria Tovar, to share their experiences and insights. The conversation covered various aspects of running successful MSP businesses, focusing on financial planning, cybersecurity, culture building, attracting and retaining talent, and team building.
Financial Planning and Cybersecurity: Michelle emphasized the importance of setting clear financial goals and creating a solid business plan from the start. Understanding the significance of cybersecurity in the current technical environment was highlighted as crucial for MSPs. Prioritizing the right technology stack, especially focusing on cybersecurity, is essential for new MSPs to succeed.
Culture Building: The leaders discussed the significance of building a strong organizational culture. Michelle stressed the importance of hiring individuals who believe in the company’s mission and investing in personal relationships with team members. Victoria added that being genuine, transparent, and intentional about fostering a positive work environment contributes to building a healthy culture within a company.
Attracting and Retaining Talent: Both leaders shared their strategies for attracting and retaining top talent. Michelle highlighted the importance of hiring individuals who understand the challenges faced by MSPs, often recruiting from within the industry. Victoria emphasized the value of acquisitions, ensuring that the acquired teams align with the existing culture. Additionally, providing opportunities for continuous learning and growth, such as training programs, helps retain valuable employees.
Team Building: The conversation concluded with insights on effective team building. Victoria emphasized the significance of placing the right people in the right positions rather than throwing bodies at problems. Michelle stressed the importance of communication, urging leaders to overcommunicate and be repetitive to ensure clarity. Both leaders highlighted the need for empathetic listening and investing time in developing team members.
Watch: The Art of Attracting and Retaining Talent in the MSP Industry
Follow Us:
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
About Sunny’s Silver Linings Podcast
“Sunny’s Silver Linings” is a top MSP channel podcast hosted by the CEO of IT By Design, Sunny Kaila. Sunny and his guests cover a wide range of MSP- and talent-based topics, including leadership, corporate culture, MSP services, cybersecurity, customer service, talent growth and retention, and strategies to achieve success in the channel. Listen now to take your business to the next level!
You can check out all our episodes here. You can also listen to “Sunny’s Silver Linings” podcast episodes on all the top streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio, etc.
About IT By Design
With more than two decades of experience as a technology services provider—first as an MSP, and then for MSPs—IT By Design (ITBD) helps clients navigate the volatile technical landscape. As the authority on MSP-trained technical talent, it understands the challenges its customers face when recruiting team members. ITBD addresses those issues through many solutions: dedicated staffing, 24x7x365 NOC services, helpdesk solutions, RMM virtual admin, vCIO consulting, security, employee and client engagement software, and professional services. ITBD is headquartered in New Jersey and has facilities in India and the Philippines.