What is the importance of community building for the success of your MSP? Find out right here!
In a recent podcast episode featuring Jonathan, the Director of Community at Ninja, the power of community engagement and the significance of trust in the managed services provider (MSP) industry were front and center. Jonathan’s role at Ninja involves connecting with customers, fostering relationships, and creating spaces for collaboration and learning within the MSP community. This conversation shed light on the pivotal role that community and trust play in the growth of businesses and individuals in the technology sector.
Jonathan’s journey with Ninja began about four and a half years ago, primarily focusing on content creation. Over time, he expanded his role to include virtual events, podcasts, videos, and a range of community-building activities. He recognized the untapped potential within the MSP community to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. To address this, Jonathan transitioned into a Director of Community role, where he thrives on facilitating connections among customers and experts to drive collective growth.
One of the intriguing topics discussed was the culture of automation. Often, conversations about automation center on technology, but Jonathan highlighted the importance of considering the human and process elements. Ninja’s product manager, Dan Meyers, emphasized how building a culture of automation involves not only adopting tools but also cultivating a mindset that leverages these tools effectively. This perspective underscores the significance of people and processes in successful automation strategies.
Trust emerged as another critical theme in the conversation. Jonathan, along with Michael Shelton, Ninja’s SVP of Strategy, shared insights into the journey of building trust in the MSP industry. While trust might not always be the first thing that comes to mind when MSPs think of vendors, Jonathan and Michael demonstrated how trust can be a key differentiator. Drawing from real-world examples within the MSP community, they discussed how trust is a foundation for successful relationships, enabling vendors and MSPs to collaborate effectively.
The conversation also turned to the anticipation of the upcoming “Build IT LIVE 2023” event. Jonathan expressed his excitement about the event, highlighting the opportunity to finally meet virtual connections in person. He emphasized how the in-person interactions within the MSP community hold a unique value that virtual connections can’t quite replicate. The event promises to be a platform for meaningful conversations, networking, and celebrating the strength of the MSP village that contributes to the industry’s growth.
In conclusion, Jonathan’s insights shed light on the power of community engagement and the role of trust in the MSP industry. The journey from content creation to community building reflects the evolution of Ninja’s commitment to its customers and the broader MSP community. As the MSP industry continues to evolve, these aspects of community and trust will remain foundational to fostering growth, collaboration, and mutual success.
Watch: Diving Deep into MSP Community Building with Jonathan Crowe
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“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!
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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.