EP081 – Creating a Winning Recruitment Strategy with Dean Watmough
Release Date: 09/18/2024
It's a Numbers Game
In this episode of 'It's A Numbers Game,' hosts Adam Morris and Daniel Welling are joined by guests Angie Hasenbank from Hasenbank Accounting Services (US) and Lauren McMaster from Rosy Small Business Services (Australia) for a globe-spanning discussion on mastering MSP finances. Key topics include the importance of standardised charts of accounts, proper labour allocation to see true gross margins, and the creation of disciplined workflows from quotes to invoices. Practical tips on working effectively with finance partners across time zones are also explored, aiming to help MSP owners build...
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In this episode, hosts Adam Morris and Daniel Welling welcome Alex, a seasoned advisor and former lender, to delve into the complexities of raising funds for growing a Managed Service Provider (MSP) business. They explore the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), shedding light on different financing options such as factoring, invoice discounting, and revenue-based financing. Alex shares his extensive experience, providing practical advice on how to assess borrowing capacity, valuation mechanisms, and the importance of strategic planning when considering acquisitions. The...
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The Evolving Role of Telemarketing in MSP Lead Generation In this podcast episode, hosts Adam Morris with Daniel Welling and guest Luke Doyle discuss the current relevance and strategies of telemarketing in the MSP (Managed Service Provider) industry. The guest shares insights into the evolution of telemarketing, balancing traditional and modern marketing techniques, and provides an overview of their company's approach to lead generation, including data quality, targeting, and effective prospecting. They emphasise the importance of well-crafted scripts, continuous client...
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In this episode, Isobelle joins the podcast to discuss her experiences and insights from working in the UK market, particularly focusing on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) of Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Isobelle talks about Evergreen's growth, including partnering with seven MSP businesses across the UK, and their approach to acquiring and supporting new businesses. Isobelle also touches on the importance of valuation, the quality of revenue streams, and the operational maturity of businesses. The conversation further explores the differentiation of Evergreen as a...
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In this episode, Simon shares his riveting journey from starting as an engineer at Ford Motor Company to founding and growing his own business, Sunrise, over the past 22 years. He discusses his decision to leave Ford, the crucial moments and opportunities that shaped his entrepreneurial path, and the challenges and triumphs along the way. Simon delves into the importance of structured business models, the impact of joining the TruMethods program, and how it provided direction, structure, and understanding of key business metrics. He also speaks about client management, the...
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In this podcast episode, host Adam Morris speaks with Ian Blake, an expert on differentiation strategies for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). They discuss the challenges service industries like MSPs face in standing out from the competition. Ian explains how logical thinking, common in the MSP space, can hinder differentiation and shares a compelling story of a restaurant owner who succeeded by focusing on what his top competitor did poorly. Ian discusses the 'Holy Trinity' of marketing—segmentation, targeting, and positioning—and emphasises understanding customer pain points,...
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In this episode, Tim joins the podcast to share insights into bookkeeping and financial management specifically tailored for Managed Service Providers (MSPs). The discussion covers common challenges faced in the MSP market, tips for effective bookkeeping, and the importance of accurate VAT returns. Tim emphasises the role of timely bank reconciliations and cash flow management. She also offers advice on setting up a detailed chart of accounts, making use of automated tools in accounting software, and understanding prepayments and journal entries. The episode aims to provide practical tips to...
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In this episode, Richard Coulthard from Ison Harrison Solicitors joins the hosts to provide a comprehensive look at Employer Ownership Trusts (EOTs). The discussion covers the growing popularity of EOTs in the Managed Service Provider (MSP) space, their tax advantages, the practical aspects and benefits of transitioning to employee ownership, and the long-term financial and operational implications. Richard explains how EOTs enable business owners to sell their shares to a trust for the benefit of employees, tax-free profit distributions, and reduced corporation tax. The episode also...
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In this episode, Monica joins the podcast to discuss common procurement challenges faced by Managed Service Providers (MSPs). Introduced by a mutual client, Monica has focused on the procurement module in ConnectWise, which directly impacts the effective production of management accounts. Monica highlights the top three procurement mistakes MSPs make: overcomplicating the process, not understanding responsibilities, and failing to complete the quote to cash process. She offers practical tips, such as simplifying procurement, using spreadsheets initially, and effectively managing vendor...
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In this episode, we reconnect with Nick O'Donovan, who provides an overview of Huntress' operations, particularly their growth and expansion into Europe, with a focus on enhancing relationships with MSPs. He highlights Huntress' efforts in recruiting and maintaining a strong team, despite industry challenges, and the success of their recent roadshow series. Nick also discusses the company's product offerings, including EDR, Microsoft 365 identity protection, security awareness, phishing solutions, and a SIEM offering. Key topics covered include the importance of affordable security...
info_outlineIn this episode, Adam and Daniel welcome Dean to discuss the nuances of recruitment and retention within the Managed Service Provider (MSP) industry. This conversation touches upon the challenges MSPs face, particularly around outsourcing and attracting the right talent. Dean elaborates on the importance of having a robust employer brand, effective onboarding processes, and the significance of personalised development pathways. The discussion also covers modern benefits that appeal to candidates, including flexible working arrangements, mental health support, and unique perks like sabbaticals. Practical advice on ensuring operational stability while embracing flexibility, as well as proactive strategies to mitigate the risk of employee attrition, provides substantial value for MSP owners and hiring managers alike.
00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Dean
00:26 The Irony of MSPs Resisting Outsourcing
01:37 Best Practices in Recruitment
03:01 Attracting the Right Candidates
03:46 Importance of Employer Branding
05:42 Benefits and Work-Life Balance
08:26 Flexibility and Hybrid Work Models
15:22 Onboarding and Retention Strategies
21:57 The Role of Job Descriptions
24:30 Employer Branding and Values
31:10 Conclusion and Contact Information
Connect with Dean Watmough on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dean-watmough-b0a05513/
Connect with Daniel Welling on LinkedIn by clicking here – https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-welling-54659715/
Connect with Adam Morris on LinkedIn by clicking here – linkedin.com/in/adamcmorris
Visit The MSP Finance Team website, simply click here – https://www.mspfinanceteam.com/
We look forward to catching up with you on the next one. Stay tuned!