Richard Tubb's Blog, page 12

Business Networking For Geeks: Top Tips To Make Better Connections

How do you feel about networking? Love it, hate it or avoid it at all costs? Unfortunately, if you’re an MSP (managed service provider) owner, then you’re also the face of your business.

And that means that potential customers need to get to know you in order to decide whether or not to work with you. If you’ve met me in person, you might think I’m a confident networker. But that wasn’t always the case. I’ve learned to be better at it, and you can too.

How to Get Better at Networking

First, you need a mindset shift. Networking isn’t about finding people to sell to, although you’d be forgiven for thinking it is. So many events expect you to sell yourself from the start.

And as an IT services provider, you may also think that there are better ways for you to find new clients. Or maybe you’re happy with where your business is now, so growth and future planning aren’t priorities for you.

So I’m going to challenge both of those assumptions. First, think of networking as a way to build connections with other business owners. Spending time with them and getting to know what they do, as well as letting them do the same with you, means you can both make helpful referrals.

Second, I’d say that no matter how comfortable you are with your business today, things can and will change. Your clients will retire or sell on their business. New MSPs will come on the scene, and they’ll be nimble, future-focused and happy to embrace new technology. They will overtake you.

Third, you might be surprised by who you meet at events. If you go with a willingness to collaborate, all kinds of opportunities can open up. For instance, I’ve been able to put together courses on finding customers with a sales trainer giving advice on closing the sale. And a PR expert helped me help my clients find speaking gigs.

Finally, by showing up regularly, you’ll build connections that become friendships. And then you can be vulnerable and ask for support and advice when things aren’t going so well. You’ll know that you’re in a safe space to do so.

Find a Networking Group That Works for You

Not all networking groups are created equal. And if you feel that it doesn’t work for you, or you’ve had a bad experience, then I’d say you’ve been to the wrong event. Have you ever said any of these things:

• We’ve tried networking, and it doesn’t work for us
• We meet the wrong people
• It’s a waste of my time
• I’ve nothing in common with the people I meet

Yes? Then it’s time to revaluate where you’re spending your time! Post-pandemic, online networking is thriving, and that’s a good thing. There’s no stressful commute or struggle to find a parking space. You don’t have to take hours out of your busy day to travel to and from the event – you just turn up on Zoom five minutes before the start.

And the other advantage is that you can meet people from around the country; indeed, from around the world, and you don’t even need to leave the office to do it. So before you write off networking entirely, I’d encourage you to take a look at the groups out there now. You might be pleasantly surprised. And remember, you can ask your peers for recommendations.

Why You Need a Plan for the Sessions

Another reason MSP owners struggle with seeing results from networking is that they go in without a plan. If your prep focuses on your 60-second pitch and getting your business cards together (does anyone still use these? I’d love to know!) then you might not have a plan for the day.

So before you go, decide what your goal for the event is. Do you want to meet business owners in a particular sector? Then check out the attendee list before you book up, so you know there’ll be the right people there. Similarly, you might be looking for someone with a certain skillset to help you in your business.

Have a look on social media to see who’s posted to say they’re going, and make sure you announce your attendance too. This is a good way to see in advance who’s going, and you can do a bit of research on their companies beforehand.

Have a system for the day to make a note of who you meet, what they do and how you might help them. Listen carefully to what they say and ask questions. Don’t make it all about you! Remember that everyone loves to talk about themselves!

And don’t forget to put time in your diary for any follow-ups! If you promised to make some introductions to people already in your network, do it straight away. Connect on LinkedIn with anyone you want to stay in touch with, and send a personalised note with it.

Have you found this article useful? If you’d like to learn more about business networking for geeks, then check out my book of the same name. And please share your tips in the comments! We’d love to know what works for you.

You Might Also be Interested inWhy You Should Make Time for Networking as a Busy MSP OwnerHow to Network Effectively: Tips for Before, During and AfterWhy Business Networking is a Powerful Tool for Techs

The post Business Networking For Geeks: Top Tips To Make Better Connections appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

TubbTalk 168: Best-Kept Secret to Global Leader: The Remarkable Evolution of CompTIA

In this interview, Richard Tubb speaks to Todd Thibodeaux, President and Chief Executive Officer of CompTIA, a nonprofit organisation that supports MSPs and IT businesses.

An Interview With Todd ThibodeauxTodd’s Journey with CompTIA

Todd started his career early on, with a part-time job at a lumber yard aged 12. After briefly considering becoming a welder, he found a job at the Electronic Industries Association.

“And when I left, the job at CompTIA opened right up. I’ve been with the organisation 16 years now, and I love it. I’ve travelled the world. And I get to see the latest tech developments, which I’ve been passionate about since I was a kid.”

Todd also shares what he’s proudest of from the last 16 years: “It’s probably the events. Because when I started there was only one community organisation, and they didn’t see a need for another one. So we built our community and events together, to better serve MSPs.”

CompTIA Research

CompTIA have their own, in-house research team, who produce helpful reports for MSPs. As Todd explains: “We do the longitudinal studies that other people won’t do, to provide people with tracking information.

“So a priority for us to repeat studies year after year so MSPs can see how things change and spot trends. Plus, we look at the state of the IT industry, growth and other factors.

“And we survey our membership, too. This allows us to really dig into customer behaviour, how services are delivered, adoption rates and so on. And we don’t do these on behalf of anyone else, so we can be independent. Our reports are free to access, too.”

How can MSPs Stand Out From the Competition?

Todd admits that it’s not easy to stand out in any industry. “But it’s easy to find out whether someone is a good actor or not. Ratings and reviews give customers information to make a decision on a business.

“But to really prove that you’re the right choice, is to provide good service over a long period of time. Understand your clients’ needs and introduce new solutions that will help them. Don’t add unnecessary services to their package just to make more money from them.

“Always put the customer first and show that you want to help their business. Ultimately, you differentiate yourself by the way you treat your customers over a longer period of time.”

Todd’s Approach to Interviewing CompTIA Event Guests

If you’ve ever seen Todd interview people on stage, at CompTIA ChannelCon or other events, you’ll know how good he is at getting them to share valuable insights. But surprisingly, he doesn’t do much prep beforehand. He shares his approach, which might be useful if you want to have a podcast, video show or even run events.

“I draft a few questions to get me started. But I don’t want to know too much about them, because I prefer to be spontaneous. That lets me get some really good answers from them. And it creates better engagement.

“So my key tip is to ask questions that will interest you and the guest. You’re trying to find common ground, and keep the energy high. And you NEVER disagree with your interviewee. Let them shine, because they’re the VIP in this situation.”

Todd’s Advice for Future-Focused MSPs

Not everyone embraces emerging technologies, says Todd. “But some people really embrace it, and look at is a competitive advantage. They get their information direct from the companies. They’re not relying on their vendors to educate them about what’s new.

“You can’t always prepare for new developments, though. Because sometimes there’s a period where there’s an influx of new technology all of a sudden. AI was like that. But they open up opportunities people had never seen, so you need to be adaptable.

“And our responsibility is to do the research and educate MSPs. That’s what CompTIA strives to do. We make sure our members are kept informed. But we’re not here to support people who don’t want to grow. We support the people who embrace the future, so we give them the tools to grow.”

Emerging Tech MSPs Should be Excited About

There are a few emerging tech solutions that Todd is excited about. “Of course, AI is one of the big ones. It’s virtually free right now, so how can you use it to increase productivity and lower costs? What about using it for automation?

“But the curve doesn’t move as fast as you think. Sometimes there are tiny iterations that can compound to make a big difference. For instance, Sophos are always developing new innovative tools and capacities. So look for tools you can use on a daily basis.

“Think about the systems you and your clients need within your businesses. Because I think there’s some incrementally innovative new technologies that are different from things that exist today. And these will change how people operate.”

How to Connect With Todd ThibodeauxCompTIAFollow CompTIA on LinkedInLike CompTIA on FacebookFollow CompTIA on XConnect with Todd on LinkedInEmail ToddHow to Connect With MeSubscribe to TubbTalk RSS feedSubscribe, rate and review TubbTalk on iTunesSubscribe and rate TubbTalk on SpotifyFollow TubbTalk on iHeartRadioFollow @tubblog on TwitterMentioned in This EpisodePeer group: The Tech TribePeer group: Network GroupPeer group: SBSC NorthwestCompTIA ChannelCon
Tech Event: Consumer Electronics Show hosted by the Consumer Technology AssociationRichard’s interview with MJ Shoer, CompTIA’s Chief Community OfficerRichard’s interview with Rob Rae, Pax8‘s Corporate Vice President of Community and EcosystemsCybersecurity Framework from the National Institute of Standards and TechnologyRichard’s interview with Tracy Pound, Managing Director at Maximity and CompTIA board memberElectric generator: ECATYou Might Also be Interested inCompTIA ChannelCon 2024: Key Takeaways on MSP GrowthPodcast: Looking into the Mindset of a Successful, Modern MSPPax8 Beyond EMEA 2024: Growing Community Beyond the Cloud

The post TubbTalk 168: Best-Kept Secret to Global Leader: The Remarkable Evolution of CompTIA appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

Tubbservatory Round-Up #34 – October 2024

Tubbservatory Round-Up – Tools and Resources for Your MSP

Each month, Richard Tubb explores the web to find the best resources, curating a fresh selection for IT Managed Service Providers (MSPs) looking to thrive.

Welcome to the Tubbservatory – a vibrant video series that showcases handpicked articles, podcasts, events and more, all tailored for IT leaders.

Introducing the Tubbservatory Round-Up #34, your guide to the October 2024 edition! We’ve compiled this month’s must-see episodes for you to enjoy.

Check out the links to these essential resources at the end of the post.

This month, we’re exploring cybersecurity, the latest gadgets, must-read books, cold-calling strategies, and AI’s impact.

Tubbservatory: The October 2024 Round-Up Video

Tubbservatory Round-Up #34: October – Week 1#1 Solving the SIEM Problem: A Hard Reset on Legacy Solutions

A webinar that caught my attention is Solving the SIEM Problem: A Hard Reset on Legacy Solutions from cybersecurity specialists, Huntress.

MSPs are bombarded with cybersecurity information like firewall data, system logs and endpoint events. So Security Information and Event Management, or SIEM for short, is designed to make sense of it all. 

This on-demand webinar from Zuri Cortez and Seth Geftic of Huntress explores the origins of SIEM, the challenges MSPs faces today, and how your MSP can filter out the noise without compromising security.

#2 From First Impressions to Lifelong Loyalty

Customer loyalty is like an Olympic record. You have to work hard to earn it, but you have to work even harder to keep it.

So a wonderful resource that I’d recommend to MSPs is From first impressions to lifelong loyalty: A Guide on How to turn customer delight into revenue growth.

This free guide from AnswerConnect helps you nail your first impression, keep customer support human and increase your revenue. Definitely worth a download!

#3 reMarkable Paper Pro | Launch event

If you missed it, the reMarkable Paper Pro event launch was, well, remarkable!

If you’re not familiar with the reMarkable devices, they are electronic tablet devices that feel like paper to write on, and help increase focus and productivity.

I’ve seen a number of MSPs using reMarkable devices in client and peer group meetings, and they are very useful.

Check out the launch video and be prepared to put this gadget on your wish list.

#4 Recommended Books for MSPs

A book that has been recommended to me is Our Iceberg is Melting: Changing and Succeeding Under Any Conditions by John Kotter and Holger Rathgeber.

In Our Iceberg is Melting, a simple fable about penguins encapsulates vital truths about embracing change and illustrates how adaptability can yield prosperity, while resistance can lead to peril, in an ever-changing world.

#5 Pax8 Beyond EMEA 2024

We are just days away from Pax8 Beyond EMEA 2024 in Berlin, Germany!

Promising to be one of the most valuable events on the European MSP calendar, Pax8 Beyond EMEA promises to help MSPs to master cybersecurity, learn how to grow your business, and elevate your capabilities over three days of immersive, groundbreaking sessions with leading industry speakers, MSPs and vendors.

I’ll be in Berlin along with Team Tubb, so if you’re going, leave a comment below so we can say hello!

Tubbservatory Round-Up #34: October – Week 2#1 Cold Calling Scripts

Cold-calling often gets the cold shoulder when it comes to Managed Service Providers, still, for an MSP who has just started up or who doesn’t have a whole marketing team to bring in inbound leads, cold calling is a powerful tool.

So, this compilation of Cold Calling Scripts for MSPs from Next-Gen PSA platform SuperOps is valuable.

These scripts are now available to download for free.

#2 UptimeLIVE 2024: Key Takeaways from an Exciting New MSP Event

If you missed the recent Uptime Live event in London, then you missed out on a ground-breaking new style of business strategy events for MSPs.

But, never, fear, because we’ve put together a round-up of all the videos, speaker summaries and news from the event for those who couldn’t make it live.

Kudos to Bradley Munday, Jason Kemsley and the whole team at Uptime for putting together an event that I think sets a new bar for channel conferences.

#3 Gender-Balanced MSP Says It Now Looks More Like Customers

News that a female-led MSP has achieved a 50-50 gender split in its leadership team in a development it claims will hand it a “differentiated position” in an increasingly digital-driven market.

Wanstor this week appointed Candice Arnold as its Chief Revenue Officer, meaning its top team now comprises three women and three men, reports Doug Woodburn at IT Channel Oxygen.

Wanstor says efforts to increase the diversity of its workforce will help the London-based Microsoft partner more closely resemble its client-base.

#4 LinkedIn Suspends AI Training Using UK User Data

The BBC reports that LinkedIn has suspending training using it’s Artificial Intelligence engine on UK user data after regulator concerns.

The Information Commissioners Office stepped in after LinkedIn quietly opted users into their data being used to train its AI models.

#5 London Roadshow

The Huntress team continue their big UK roadshow with a big event at the OXO Tower in London on Wednesday 30th October 2024.

These roadshow events are getting great feedback for their community approach, with lots of peer-to-peer networking between MSPs who are focused hearing the latest cybersecurity insights.

Registration is now open to all MSPs!

Tubbservatory Round-Up #34: October – Week 3#1 How to Spot a Phishing Email in the Age of AI

I consider myself a fairly cybersavvy geek, but even I will admit that some of the recent phishing attacks I’ve received have been really convincing.

Cybercriminals are now using AI to generate their phishing attacks. So I’d highly recommend the eBook “How to Spot a Phishing Email in The Age of AI”

Cybersecurity specialists Hornetsecurity have used data analysis from their Security Lab to highlight real-world examples of how AI is changing phishing emails.

This free eBook is now available for download.

#2 Your Go-To Source for IT Business Guidance, Resources, Classes, Events, and More

Talking of great resources, one of the email newsletters I subscribe to and highly rate is MSP legend Karl Palachuk’s Small Biz Thoughts.

One of the most popular newsletters in the channel, each week Palachuk gives IT business guidance without the fluff.

#3 Get to Know Bob Burg

And talking of legends, a huge personal influence on me and so many other IT professionals has been Bob Burg, co-author of the book “The Go-Giver: A Little Story About a Powerful Business Idea”

Well, Arlin Sorensen of ConnectWise, and Peter Melby, CEO, New Charter Technologies, recently sat down to get to know Bob Burg, and you can now view their conversation online.

If you want to hear how adopting a giving mindset has transformed business operations and personal lives for so many MSPs, then check out this conversation.

#4 Eclipse Wholesale Marks 20th Anniversary With Sand Artwork

Congratulations to UK-based Eclipse Wholesale who celebrated 20 years of business this month!

Eclipse is a North-East-based channel first connectivity provider founded by Managing Director James Drake in 2004.

Twenty years on, and the company are a real UK success story. To mark the achievement, the team headed to the beach to create an artwork in the sand. Congratulations, James and team!

#5 AI for Creators: Amplify Your Content, Maximize Your Impact

Wednesday, October 30th 2024 is the date for a Brit & A Beard!

That’s right, Ian Anderson Gray and Jeff Sieh are hosting “AI for Creators: Amplify Your Content, Maximize Your Impact” in Manchester.

If you’d like to know how to use AI to revolutionise your content strategy, then tickets are now available!

Tubbservatory Round-Up #34: October – Week 4#1 The CISO Script: How to Talk to Business Leaders About Security Risk

Cyber risk continues to be a concern for business leaders, but how do MSPs have the right conversations with clients about cybersecurity?

I’d recommend checking out The CISO script: How to talk to business leaders about security risk.

This resource contains a script and a presentation template from Barracuda’s MSP CISO, Riaz Lakhani. It will  help you discuss cyber risk with clients.

Definitely worth checking out.

#2 AI in the Workplace | Friend or Foe?

A podcast that caught my ear is Resistance is Futile, the Sceptics Guide to AI from Dave Foulkes and Jamie Claret.

Claret is an MSP owner, and so many of the conversations he and Foulkes have are very relevant to IT businesses who are interested in Artificial Intelligence.

Go and check their show out!

#3 Katie Milligan, CCO Openreach, on Women in Tech, and is the Sky/CityFibre Deal Bad for Openreach?

Richard Tang, CEO of Zen Internet, shares a fabulous interview he recorded with Katie Milligan, CCO of Openreach.

Katie shares her own journey as a woman and mother of a young child in an industry with a significant majority of men, particularly in tech and leadership roles.

Plus, Tang gets Milligan’s insights on the state of the Broadband market, and more!

#4 Recommended Books for MSPs

Feel like you have no control over the leads and sales that come through your business?  Waste a lot of time on unsuitable leads? Then here’s the book for you!

“Content Fortress: A Simple Content Marketing Strategy That Helps You Attract Customers You’ll LOVE to do Business With.” Written by Martin Huntbach and Lyndsay Cambridge, it’s a great guide on consistently attracting the kind of clients MSPs love to work with.

#5 Must Attend Event for the IT Channel

The Managed Services Summit North hits Manchester on November 19th 2024.

It features conference session presentations by industry speakers. And the Summit will also provide opportune networking breaks for delegates to meet with potential business partners.

Registration is now open.

Links to the Resources Mentioned in This Round-Up

From Week 1Solving the SIEM Problem: A Hard Reset on Legacy SolutionsFrom First Impressions to Lifelong LoyaltyreMarkable Paper Pro | Launch eventRecommended Books for MSPsPax8 Beyond EMEA 2024Mentioned in Week 2Cold Calling ScriptsUptimeLIVE 2024: Key Takeaways from an Exciting New MSP EventGender-Balanced MSP Says It Now Looks More Like CustomersLinkedIn Suspends AI Training Using UK User DataLondon RoadshowWeek 3How to Spot a Phishing Email in the Age of AIYour Go-To Source for IT Business Guidance, Resources, Classes, Events, and MoreGet to Know Bob BurgEclipse Wholesale Marks 20th Anniversary in the SandAI for Creators: Amplify Your Content, Maximize Your ImpactAnd Week 4The CISO Script: How to Talk to Business Leaders About Security RiskAI in the Workplace | Friend or Foe?Katie Milligan, CCO Openreach, on Women in Tech, and Is the Sky/CityFibre Deal Bad for Openreach?Recommended Books for MSPsMust-Attend Event for the MSP Channel

How You Can Help

As we close out Tubbservatory Round-Up #34, it’s time to gear up for November!

Have something valuable to share? Whether it’s a useful tool, an insightful article, or a smart tip, drop it in the comments below. Let’s keep the ideas flowing—your input is invaluable!

You Might Also be Interested inUptimeLIVE 2024: Key Takeaways from an Exciting New MSP EventTubbTalk 157: Looking Into The Mindset Of A Successful, Modern MSPTubbservatory Round-Up #32 – August 2024

The post Tubbservatory Round-Up #34 – October 2024 appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

How to Introduce a Mental Health Programme into Your MSP

Mental health is an important topic for us here at Tubblog. We all struggle with stress and mental health occasionally – and at work, it’s never been more important to show your team that you care about their wellbeing.

And, that’s not just because poor mental health could have an effect on project outcomes! A mentally fortified, confident, and happy team is one that’s always keen to get into the next challenge. You’re managing a team of ambitious people who seize training and career opportunities with gusto and self-poise.

However, many people are struggling to find this confidence, and to balance their stress and anxiety levels in the workplace. In fact, various pieces of research suggests that most people are increasingly finding work more stressful and exhausting. And they are struggling with pressure, anxiety, and depression.

As an MSP and an employer, you have a duty of care to ensure your people are supported no matter what they do for you. That can include making sure they have accessible resources to help manage mental health, relieve stress. Or a simple thing like time off for headspace.

However, setting up a mental health programme or support scheme isn’t an exact science, and it can be tough. After all, we all have different wants and needs. For some, it might simply be enough just to cultivate a culture that welcomes open discussion about mental health problems.

So, in this guide, I’ll take you through what an MSP mental health programme might entail, why it’s worth setting one up, and how you can get started. I’ll also recommend a few apps and services that the Tubblog team has already got behind. These are tools we’ve already used ourselves behind the scenes.

Ultimately, prioritising your mental health has never been more important. Because you and your team should always feel comfortable and empowered to speak up and openly about things that worry or overwhelm you.

What is a Mental Health Programme?

A mental health programme is a plan or initiative set up by a business to prioritise the mental wellbeing of its staff. It could:

Help people open up about what’s bothering themOffer direct programs and counsellingProvide stipends to help people find help outside of work

Regardless, programmes don’t have to follow any fixed shape or pattern. It could be a floating, holistic set of activities that people can pick and choose from as they see fit. For example, people in your team might choose to use journal apps, or take personal time to meditate.

Or, you might even introduce mental health aspects into personal development plans to help people check in with themselves while developing professional skills.

Regardless of the shape it might take, a mental health programme should be accessible, flexible, and exist to help make life easier for those who work with you. You should never set up a programme purely to hit targets or tick boxes – don’t be disingenuous.

If you have a few ideas about what you might want to include in your programme, there are some handy templates out there that you can pick apart and build upon. As mentioned, there’s no correct plan of action – talk with your employees and find out what they need.

To start, take a look at Mind’s collection of Wellness Action Plans. The mental health charity has put together three digital packs that workplaces and remote or hybrid teams can use to help support each other in the workplace.

There are a few forms to fill in, but it’s a fantastic springboard. Mind is a superb charity that works hard to support people and organisations across the UK impacted by mental health struggles. And this is just one example of their brilliant resources.

Beyond this, take a closer look at some of our guides already published at Tubblog. For instance, Richard previously posted a guide to some exceptional mental health resources MSP owners can use to support themselves and those they employ.

Why Set up a Mental Health Programme?

It’s never been more important to speak up about mental health. Workplaces that remain tight-lipped and cross-armed to discussions risk developing a culture bogged down by resentment, stress, and unfounded negativity.

Many people struggle with mental health because of work, too. Research suggests that at least 875,000 of us have suffered with work-related anxiety, depression, or stress. That’s just over 2% of the adult working population of the UK. It might not sound like much, but keep in mind these statistics are based on people who are willing to speak up.

Many people might be suffering in silence. People who feel their mental health is suffering at or because of work stand to take more sick days, and others might be at higher risk of leaving companies altogether.

Companies that fail to address the mental wellbeing of their workforces could, therefore, see absenteeism and turnover skyrocket. Moreover, they’re throwing away genuine talent which could burst through if people felt that little bit more confident and comfortable in themselves.

The Benefits of Supporting Mental Wellbeing at Work

What’s more, a company that invests in mental health is immediately more attractive to outsiders, such as talented applicants who have been let down elsewhere. However, you must ensure that your programmes are genuine and come from a place of support and kindness.

Having open conversations with your people – even if it just means encouraging them to be more honest with themselves about how they’re feeling – will go a long way. We’re well beyond the days of squashing down mental struggles being a recommended course of action.

More than 75% of managers believe there’s a lack of education regarding mental health in the workplace. What’s more, research also suggests that the majority of workers struggling with mental health either feel embarrassed, are worried about ramifications for their careers, or don’t believe their employers are capable enough to help.

These shocking statistics paint a pretty stark picture – that businesses need to not only do more to acknowledge employees’ mental health, but that they also need to create a safe, open culture free from judgment and repercussions.

A great way to kickstart this, of course, is to build a mental health programme!

Steps to Setting up Your Own Programme 

Again, you might use Mind’s brilliant templates to help you get started. But remember that there are no right or wrong answers to setting up your own mental health programme. You don’t even have to formalise any kind of structure unless you feel it might help others.

That said, formal action plans (or even those drawn up roughly) are great for accountability. They’ll also help you make sure that your workplace supports people with mental disabilities as outlined within UK employment law.

So, here are a few steps you could take to draft your own mental health programme to support your managers and employees moving forward.

Get Buy-in From Business Owners

Di you run your business with partners, or have a number of stakeholders or shareholders? Then ensure there’s buy-in from any decision-makers in the firm.

Very few will turn down the chance to support mental health in the workplace. But going ahead with a new initiative or programme without consulting the key players isn’t a great plan!

Lay out a plan with objectives and make sure you get signed or recorded permission to move ahead – and then you’re clear to plan further.

Set Aside a Budget and Plan for Roles and Responsibilities

If you intend to supply your staff with equipment, apps, or stipends so they can access their own mental health resources, you’re going to need a clear budget. This is a key conversation t0 have with the decision-makers.

Make sure to budget for any outside support or training you bring on board, too. Look carefully at your financial projections and think carefully about what you can feasibly afford at this moment in time.

There are also free ways, of course, for you to manage elements of such a programme.

For example, you could simply change elements of your personal development plans, build meetings around mental health discussions, and encourage people to be more open with you.

It’s also a good idea, however, to get support on side from people willing to help launch your programme. This might be current staff or managers, or partners in your business.

Are there elements to your scheme that you could delegate to interested people? What skills and talents could you make use of from within the company to get mental health projects off the ground?

Consider an open call for help from your team. The incentive? A fully operational and supportive mental health programme.

Invest in Self-Help Resources

There’s no reason why you have to manage or oversee all of the resources and tools that staff can use within your mental health programme.

For example, use some of your programme budget on setting up apps and services they might use in their spare time.

Some of the best apps – which I’ll take a look at with you below – work on a solo basis. So, team members can simply log in and record how they’re feeling. Or even discuss what’s going on in their lives with a chatbot.

This line of planning might be particularly useful if you want to support those who don’t feel confident enough to speak up.

This way you introduce helpful resources to them, and they might eventually speak with you about the help they need.

Look at the Bigger Mental Health Picture

Mental health doesn’t start and end with feeling down or stressed occasionally. There are lots of different triggers and factors that can exacerbate long-term feelings of depression and anxiety.

Therefore, take the time to dive deep into the different factors that could be causing mental health struggles for your team. Consider sending an anonymous survey throughout the company to ask about what areas of their lives produce the most stress or worry – with no pressure to complete.

For example, with the results, you could find some people are worried about money or career prospects. You could, therefore, build some areas of your programme around upskilling – which could increase salaries and senses of wellbeing.

Otherwise, some people might struggle with feelings of worthlessness or body dysmorphia. In which case, you could bring on board counsellors or workplace therapists. Or, you could even set up gym memberships or nutritionist sessions for people who want to feel better about their bodies.

Regardless, always make sure to tread carefully, and don’t assume that you know all the answers to the problems people are going through.

Train Managers on Mental Health Red Flags to Look out for

If you’re the owner of your MSP, it’s reasonable to expect that you might not always have complete oversight of your programme’s initiatives at all times.

Therefore, take time to make sure the managers and supervisors who will be supporting your staff have the knowledge and tools to prioritise their mental health.

This, again, doesn’t have to be an exact science. Simply keeping everyone on the same page and getting the workplace behind the concept of an open, supportive mental health culture will likely be enough for many managers.

That said, it’s a good idea for everyone to learn more about what mental health problems might look like, and why it’s important to discuss these matters.

You could create regular workshops with your team where people might feel comfortable exploring their feelings. Don’t make it compulsory – rather, make it clear what your sessions will involve, and what people are free to talk about when they attend.

Set up Charity Initiatives

One of the best ways to improve mental health is to get better connected with others and to do good. Of course, there are many different struggles that people will be going through.

But a great way to raise company morale and to inspire the workforce might be to set up charity initiatives for causes that your employees care about.

Invest in Counselling and Space for People to Unwind and Process

We all need time and space to unwind and process complex thoughts and emotions. Therefore, consider making a special space at your workplace purely for people to retire to when they need to take a few moments away from projects.

You could also invest in in-house counselling or therapy. This could be very useful for people who don’t have access to therapists outside of work, or who are keen to learn more about therapy but are unsure about the best steps to take.

There are no right or wrong ways to build a mental health programme at work. What’s most important is you listen to your team and colleagues. And, show that you genuinely care about what they’re going through.

For more insight and advice, take a look at our guide on how to promote positive wellbeing at work.

Useful Tools and Apps for Mental Health Programmes

To close, I thought I’d take a quick look at some fantastic mental health apps and tools that have helped many of us here at Tubblog.

You could invest in any of the following to support your mental health programme. Whether it’s through guided use or to encourage people to explore on their own.

We’ve broken down each of these resources further in separate guides on the blog, too. So make sure to check out the more detailed reviews if you’re interested!

MindDoc

MindDoc is a superb mental health ‘companion’ – it’s a free app that asks you daily questions to help you check in with your wellbeing and mood patterns.

For people who feel they are struggling to control mood patterns and manage their thought processes, it’s a fantastic way to help lay out things in a neat, analytical perspective.

It could be an app you roll out across your workforce – and I highly recommend the paid version for extra features.

Check out what Richard has to say about MindDoc here.

WoeBot

Pardoning the clever pun, WoeBot is an exceptional piece of AI that lets users explore the root causes of anxiety and depression through cognitive behaviour therapy techniques.

Specifically, it’s a great platform for people who might not feel comfortable talking with others about their problems to chat without fear of judgement. 

This chatbot listens to what you have to say and can be extremely helpful in overturning moments where you might feel particularly low or helpless.

I think it’s a great little app that you could roll out as part of a mental health programme. And you can dive into more about its features with our complete WoeBot review.

Moonbeam

Moonbeam is a piece of wearable tech that I personally absolutely love. It’s a wristband with two simple buttons – one with a yellow button that you press when you feel positive, and a blue button that you press when you’re feeling low.

The wristband then connects to an app on your phone that helps you to monitor how you’re feeling across the day, to spot patterns, and to start understanding certain triggers.

It also doubles as a great little pedometer and a sleep tracker, too. Because regular exercise and a healthy sleep schedule are both important when trying to manage your mental health.

The Moonbeam One wristband is available for a one-off cost of £49.99 at the time of writing, with a free app. Read our Moonbeam review for a more detailed dive into what to expect.

DARE

The DARE app is a free resource that people struggling with anxiety can use to get swift help at a moment’s notice. And offers audio training and SOS programs that can help you manage attacks as and when they arise.

It’s a great resource to use when you feel overwhelmed or overcome by negative emotions and thoughts. Specifically, it plays a ten-minute piece of audio that will help you recentre yourself and regain perspective.

It’s free to download but offers a subscription service, too. This unlocks more features and tools that you and your team can use for months to come. I think it’s a great resource you can budget for in your plan, and if you’d like to know more, start with our full DARE app review.

Re-Timer Therapy Glasses

Let’s close with another piece of intriguing wearable tech. Specifically, Re-Timer therapy glasses – which work with the principle of light therapy.

Light therapy can help ease some of the symptoms you might experience during the change of seasons. And it can even support you on the way to building healthier sleep patterns.

Each pair of glasses costs around £179 at the time of writing. The glasses emit gentle light and energy around your face to help rebalance your eyes – and your mind, too. They can even help to boost your energy levels!

Whether you suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or jet-lag, Re-Timer glasses could be a sound investment – and even for the whole team in bulk. Learn more with our Re-Timer Light Therapy Glasses review.

There’s no Better Time to Prioritise Mental Health in the Workplace

Creating your own mental health programme for the workplace can be tricky . But, provided your intentions are clear and honest, and you have support from likeminded people in your team, you’ll be on track to creating a more supportive atmosphere for discussions and self-management.

We all struggle with mental health sometimes – and please don’t suffer in silence. Take a look at the advice and resources I’ve suggested above. And, as always, if you have any questions or advice of your own, we’d love to hear from you!

You Might Also be Interested inWhy Time off is Vital for MSP Leaders’ Mental WellbeingInvest in Mental Health for Happy MSP TeamWhy You Should Encourage Your MSP Employees to Switch off on Holidays

The post How to Introduce a Mental Health Programme into Your MSP appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

Invest In Mental Health For a Happy MSP Team

Is your workplace a mentally healthy one? Sometimes, it’s not always so easy to tell from the outside. So how can MSPs prioritise mental health at work.

You might have a super-productive office, and you could be delivering a fantastic service to clients – but not everyone is so open to talking about how they’re genuinely feeling.

After all, running an MSP or even being part of a managed team can be tough at times. It’s not easy to just leave mental struggles and strong emotions to one side when you’re up against tough deadlines and increasing workloads.

It is, however, easy to forget about the importance of mental health and wellbeing when you’re faced with everyday pressures. 

A mentally healthy workplace is one that’s happy, motivated, and truly committed to its values. However, it’s rare to find a workplace that has absolutely every single mental pressure ironed out and in check!

As part of our ongoing commitment to our readers, we’re helping MSP owners and operators take steps to think carefully about the stresses and struggles they might be going through – and those that could be affecting their teams, too.

In fact, focusing on your workplace’s mental health is a genuine investment – and in this guide, I’ll share with you why that’s the case, and how you can start taking some fantastic steps to protect yourself and those you work with.

Why Invest in Mental Health at Work?

Let’s be clear. We all need help sometimes, and it’s never unhealthy, weak, or shameful to ask for it. We are beyond the age of simply bottling up and squashing down mental health struggles for the greater good.

If you ever feel depressed, anxious, exhausted, or overwhelmed at work – or, even outside of it – you are far from alone. Statistics from a couple of years ago show that around 875,000 of us struggle with work-related stress. That, of course, is also only the number of people who are open about it.

Of course, acknowledging that you aren’t alone in any problems you’re facing isn’t to downplay your struggle. It should, however, indicate that there is still a burgeoning need for people in UK workplaces to find more adequate support and guidance when it comes to mental health concerns.

That doesn’t always fall to you as a manager, nor does it fall to the individual employee! It does mean, however, that we could all benefit from more open conversations, and perhaps all be more willing to discuss how work affects our mental health, and vice-versa.

There are tons of great things you can do to support your teams – and yourself – when it comes to workplace mental health. I’ll run through these with you towards the bottom of this guide – and in the meantime, please do check out Richard’s fantastic guide to mental health resources for more insight.

Right now, however, let’s explore a few reasons why investing in mental health at work could be so beneficial for your business and the people who help you run it. Remember, investment doesn’t necessarily mean having to physically purchase or supply resources for your team – it could be as simple as just opening up a dialogue.

You’ll Normalise Important Conversations

It’s so important to make sure everyone feels heard and understood at work. Otherwise, you’re at risk of creating an environment where people can feel lonely, vulnerable, and uncomfortable sharing their feelings.

Normalising important conversations – by giving people space and opportunity to talk about themselves – can help encourage self-confidence. It’s also a great way for you, as a manager, to learn more about what you could specifically invest in to help your team.

You’ll Inspire Greater Confidence at Work

As mentioned, opening a mental health dialogue is a good way to inspire self-confidence. However, it’s also a fantastic way to help people seek out self-help and learn how to manage complex feelings and emotions.

Investing in mental health at work tells people that what they think and feel is completely valid – and that there are people available who can help them.

This, in turn, can lead to a more proactive, happy, and secure workforce!

You’ll Relieve Some Harmful Stigma

Thankfully, we are now mostly beyond the idea that mental health is just something you bottle up and put to one side. Over the past decade, there have been more and more public initiatives created to help people talk about what’s concerning them.

Mental health charities such as Mind and organisations such as CALM and the Samaritans work tirelessly to help challenge this perhaps unspoken narrative that you need to “suck it up and carry on” – it’s an obsolete idea that’s perhaps tied to this idea of keeping a stiff upper lip – “mustn’t grumble!”

And yet – we should grumble! The stigma surrounding mental health worries, that you’ll be seen as weak or that they suggest you’re incapable is no longer conducive to a healthy workplace, or even a healthy society.

Let’s start talking about stress and mental health without prejudice. Because, frankly, we all have internal struggles – and by investing in resources and support to help people speak up, you’ll be helping to untangle years of built-up resentment.

You’ll Inspire People

So many of us set goals and ambitions and struggle to achieve what we really want out of life and work. What’s stopping us? 

Much of the time, it’s about self-belief. Promoting positive mental wellbeing in the workplace – perhaps by simply coaching people or asking your team to check in with a chatbot – can help those who are struggling with imposter syndrome realise their true potential.

Simply changing the way you give feedback to people could help those struggling with confidence to understand their true worth and the positive effects they have on your business. It’s not always easy to see the positivity we bring to our work on paper!

Helping people to realise these factors and to clear a little headspace could help them open up new paths and goals they might otherwise have felt they weren’t capable of heading for. 

Depending on the struggles people are facing, helping to inspire fresh ambition can take time – which is why it’s just as important to be patient.

You Could Upskill Your Workforce

As a knock-on effect from the above, it’s entirely possible that a mentally healthy workforce could be more receptive to learning new skills and talents. This means you could open up all kinds of new opportunities within your business that some employees might not have even considered.

Some of us hold back from training and development because we might not feel that we are worthy of the attention, that we have too much on our plates already, or that we simply worry about failure.

More than 40% of us worry about failing at least 20% of the time. It’s something lots of us are going through – and, again, this statistic only accounts for people who feel comfortable enough to open up about how they feel.

Support your workforce with mental health matters, and you might find more people start to open up to new opportunities within the company. You could develop personal development plans that check in with your team regarding their mental health, too, so you’re not just helping keep their career development on track.

You’ll Demonstrate a Duty of Care to Your Employees

According to UK legislation, all companies must show a duty of care by effectively adjusting workplaces so that they can support people with disabilities – that, in many cases, can include mental health conditions.

By investing in employees’ mental health, you’ll ensure that your MSP is keeping in line with employment law. However, I want to be especially careful and clear here – this should not be your primary or sole reason for supporting mental health in the workplace.

It is, however, a helpful knock-on effect – demonstrating that you are running a business that genuinely cares about the wellbeing of people who keep it ticking over.

That’s going to go a long way for people who are already working with you, and will encourage others who may not feel supported elsewhere to join you. There are many great advantages to being a mental health champion!

You’ll Reduce Potential Absences

It’s thought that millions of us end up missing work each year because we struggle with mental health issues. In fact, it’s possible that as many as 18 million work days, total, are missed because people are struggling to manage their minds.

By supporting mental health more openly at work, you could reduce the number of absences and sick days used across the year. Instead of leaving your employees to manage their mental health on their own and potentially missing work as a result, you could provide a support network they can rely on and avoid getting ill.

Of course, this isn’t an exact science – but by investing in workplace mental health and at least opening the door to conversations, it stands to reason that many people will feel more comfortable working through their problems in the workplace.

You Could Retain Talent

The same strategy applies to turnover. Some people who are genuinely struggling with mental health and who don’t feel their workplaces are supporting their needs could look for other opportunities. 

Statistics claim that up to 59% of people leave or plan to leave their jobs because of mental health issues, or those related to general wellbeing.

By investing in mental health support and resources in-house, you’re giving people more of a reason to stay. You’ll not only support their professional development, but will also give them guidance and coaching if they start to feel overwhelmed.

Employee Performance Might Improve

People who feel better about themselves and who have greater control over their mental health could start to improve in other areas of their life and work, too. 

It stands to reason that someone who feels more confident and capable is more likely to put in a great standard of work. They’ll want to do their best – motivation will improve, and therefore, the quality of work output you can expect will improve, too!

Again, I want to emphasise that simply investing in workplace mental health for the sake of boosting employee performance is not the best strategy to take. Be sure to invest in your people’s health because you care about them.

You’ll Build a Fantastic Reputation as a Supportive Employer

I’ve mentioned this briefly, but it certainly bears repeating. By investing in your workplace mental health, you’ll build a solid outward reputation as a company that genuinely cares about its people.

That means you’ll attract talented people who might have struggled with their mental health previously, or who might feel that they’ve been let down by other employers.

Given that you will have a support network and tools in place to help them, you will be in a fantastic position to help these employees and to ensure they achieve their goals – and simply do their best.

How can You Invest in Mental Health in the Workplace?

I’ve covered the whys, it’s now time to look at the hows. Of course, the way in which you invest in workplace mental health will likely differ from case to case. No two MSPs are ever the same, after all!

Therefore, I’ve brought together a few quick tips you could use to start planning out your workplace’s mental health support strategy. Consider these to be general points you can adapt to your own ends as you see fit – and, if you have any tips or strategies of your own that you’d like to share, please do let us know!

Make Mental Health Resources Accessible

To start, consider deploying a range of mental health resources that your team can access at any time. For example, there’s a range of apps you could install and sign your team up for that they can use on breaks or during personal development time.

It’s also important to tailor any one to one coaching or development meetings you have in mind to focus on mental health management. Don’t just focus on work performance – ask your team if there is anything you could do to support them better.

Consider employing a counsellor, for example, who people can turn to in times of stress and anxiety. It’s sometimes good just to have an opportunity to talk things through in privacy and confidence.

Consider Whether or not You’re Doing Enough Within Recommended Parameters

Now’s a really good time to look carefully at employment law expectations and to see what other MSP owners are doing to support people’s mental health. Why not ask for advice from people in your professional network – and canvass other managers and business owners?

Otherwise, it’s a really good idea to check into online guides and checklists to see if there are ideas you can use to support people at work. For example, this guide from ACAS suggests perhaps changing roles and responsibilities for certain people, setting up a job share scheme, or adapting to more flexible hours and working patterns.

What’s vital is that you bring together these resources, but always make sure you ask your employees how you can help them. Don’t make bold assumptions!

Be sure to develop a clear action plan, too. Consider the resources you want to deploy, the budget you’ll need, and the people you might need to support your new mental health program.

Invest in Mental Health Stipends

If you’d prefer your team to explore help channels on their own, or you feel it would be more beneficial to do so, consider offering a grant or stipend benefit for specific mental health products or services.

For example, you could offer a benefit to help your employees look for off-site therapy or meditation resources. You could provide aromatherapy vouchers, credit to use on mental health apps, or even spa grants.

Again, it’s worth canvassing your team to get a good idea of the types of support that are likely to benefit your people the most – then, consider funding their access to these resources.

Sometimes, all that’s standing between people with mental health struggles and the help they need is, sadly, money. Be the change that they need!

Build a More Positive, Open Culture

When you say your door is always open to people with worries and concerns about mental health, practice what you preach!

Work with others to create a safe atmosphere and an open forum where people can discuss what’s on their minds in confidence or with others in team building sessions. Ensure that people know you won’t judge or treat them any differently if they come to you with mental health concerns.

Adapt any training schemes you have in place, too. Perhaps, as part of personal development plans, you could introduce checkpoints where you touch base with people along the way. Check in with how they’re feeling – encourage journalling, and if people want to speak privately about issues, let them.

Build Mental Health Checks into Your Risk Assessments

Risk assessments shouldn’t just account for physical health – but for those triggers that could affect mental health, too.

For example, are there any roles or responsibilities that could cause distress to people? Are there any processes where people might feel under unnecessary pressure, or where they might struggle to perform at their best?

Ultimately, the mental health risks in your workplace will differ compared to others – so, it’s worth looking into a template you could adapt to your own ends.

Here’s a fantastic HSENI example that goes deep into what you could measure to protect mental health at work, and what steps you might take along the way.

Train Your Managers on How to Support Employees

Having a strong culture that’s open about mental health is one thing, but you’ll also need managers and supervisors to know how to support people along the way, too.

Consider developing training plans for leaders that helps them to understand why good mental health is so important in the workplace. You could use some of the points from this guide as a starting point!

Do also consider training management on what to look for in people who might be struggling. This is certainly worth the investment – simply because some people might be afraid or embarrassed to speak up.

Make the Most of Technology

There’s all kinds of technology you could use to foster better mental wellbeing at work. For example, you could install the Woebot, an AI therapy chatbot that allows people to talk about what’s on their minds without judgment or reproach.

I also highly recommend MindDoc, an app that helps you explore your mental health with a series of open-ended questions every day. It’s available from free, but even at a paid level, it’s a fantastic investment to help your team manage its mental wellbeing.

You could make certain apps and other technology available through stipends, too, as mentioned earlier.

Take Mental Health One Step at a Time

That’s a lot to take in – but remember, good mental health is a key pillar to success in the IT industry and elsewhere. Prioritising mental wellbeing takes time, and it’s certainly not a one-and-done affair.

Here at Tubblog, we regularly publish posts and guides on how to manage and prioritise mental health in the MSP workplace. For further advice and ideas, I suggest you take a look at our mental health section – which we update regularly with news and resources.

Remember, everyone struggles sometimes, but no one should have to struggle in silence. Take some of the ideas from this guide and start thinking more about how you can help people who might have invisible problems – and, at the same time, start building a healthier, more open workplace.

Don’t push yourself too hard, either. Take a moment, look around you – and breathe. We’re all in this together!

You Might Also be Interested inPodcast: Mental Health for MSP OwnersApplying an Adventurous Mindset in Life and Work for Robust Mental FitnessPodcast: What do Mid-Life MSP Owners Need to Know for Better Health and Wellness?

The post Invest In Mental Health For a Happy MSP Team appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

The Lowdown: Women In Tech Meetup: Pax8 Beyond EMEA

For today’s article, I’m handing over to guest blogger Vera Tucci. She shares her experiences at the Women in Tech meeetup at the recent Pax8 Beyond EMEA conference in Berlin.

Vera is the COO and co-founder of T-Consulting, an IT services company specialising in cybersecurity. She is a passionate advocate for inclusivity and gender equality.

Richard Tubb.

***

“Are you here for the Women in Tech event? Welcome; it’ll start soon, and afterward, we’ll serve champagne if you want to stay a little longer.”

If my 24-year-old self had been here, she wouldn’t have believed her eyes. The first time she entered the room to attend an MSP event, it was just her and the marketing manager of the hosting company.

Today, when the elevator doors open and I enter this panoramic top-floor room at The Intercontinental Hotel, Berlin, I instantly feel a different energy.

I’m a little early, yet the room is already buzzing with people chatting, Pax8 representatives welcoming you at the entrance, and the panellists getting ready on stage.

I take a mental note of something: the men. There are plenty of men: MSPs, vendors, and distributors.

This event is going to be different. The topics will benefit us, of course, but they will ripple their effect throughout our industry because they are also here.

The statistics presented are clear: three out of ten people in IT are women, meaning seven are men. And we need those seven participating in the conversion because we also need their championship, and it can only come from understanding us and our perspectives better.

I’ve always claimed that a Women in Tech event isn’t as powerful as it can be without men. A GenZ would say, Pax8 is serving so far.

The Panel Session at the Women in Tech Meetup

At 5.30, the moderator, Michelle Correia, VP of Legal for Pax8 in EMEA, asks us to take our seats. It’s about to start.

In front of us, there are 4 women:

Hayley McSpirit, VP of Microsoft Alliances for Pax8Michelle Curtis, Worldwide Distribution Leader for MicrosoftBecky Hatton, Head of Business Operations for Mirus IT Solutionsand Dr. Julia Freudenberg, the CEO of Hacker School.

In only 20 minutes, this group of established IT professionals, all at the top of their game, dismantled years and years of beliefs that have impacted all our careers as Women in Tech simply by showing up and being authentic.

Personally, one topic hits very close to home for me.

How do Women get Into Tech?

“What is your background, and how did you get into IT?” Correia asks all the guests.

Our panelists have different roles in different organsations, yet three of four share that they have  “Fallen into IT.” This means they started their careers in a different industry, coming from a non-IT-related academic path, and have entered this world because of the right chance presented, and – most importantly – they took it.

This is common to many women in the field. Back in  “our days” – I know how “boomer” it sounds… I tried to sound younger before, but let’s come back to reality – IT wasn’t an obvious choice for us.

For a long time, a generation of women thought that not having a tech background was a reason good enough to stir away completely from this environment.

The sense of inadequacy was so strong that it prevented us from showing up and sitting at the table even when some of us had already “fallen into IT.”

Among the panelists, Dr.Julia is the only one who chose IT, as she says, through the giggles of the crowd. Of course, we all anticipated it by reading her title in the presentation. But even if IT is her passion, she decided to start a non-profit, Hackers School – which Pax8 supported with a social booth selling AMAZING and nerdy merch throughout the event!

Their mission is to teach kids how to code through online courses supported by IT companies. She’s been in the field for a couple of decades now, and she understands how pivotal it can be to teach kids at a young age that there is a different path they may have never considered before.

Why We Still Need to Encourage Women into Tech Roles

When Correia dives right in with the question, “Do we still need this conversation?” The group answer is clear: YES. Showing up is essential to fill the still wide and open gap.  The lack of women in our industry impacts how companies operate, make decisions, hire, and conduct their business overall.

A diverse environment changes conversations, approaches, and how we see the world.

Hearing that even if you have a background in advertising, like Curtis, or even the military, like McSpirit, you can greatly contribute to the IT world and the organization you work in (or for), it’s a paradigm shift.

Again, it’s Dr.Julia who bursts a laugh out of the crowd when she simply says: “We don’t code with our ovaries! Everyone can do everything! These limits are rooted in our culture, and it’s important to show girls that they can and should show up”.

How do We Advance Women in Tech Leadership?

The group doesn’t disappoint when a simple yet important question is asked:

“What is your tip for women to advance in leadership roles?”

I’m overwhelmed and comforted by the replies at the same time. This group of successful women still remembers how it felt at the beginning and generously and truthfully bestow upon us a series of one-sentence takeaways without being afraid to share uncomfortable truths. I could paraphrase them, but they are too good not to share verbatim.

“We feel the need to earn our seat at the table. Be brave, Be bold.”

“Start from school age to overcome cultural bias” (Hayley McSpirit)

“Be a role model [for the women in your organisation]. I use my example of going for leadership roles to inspire other women.” (Becky Hatton)

“Have the conversation of advocating for what you want with the women you lead.” (Michelle Curtis)

Again, Dr. Julia takes us home with a strike of advice that feels more like a Pinterest-worthy vision board/encouragement manifesto:

“Don’t tell girls to be perfect but to be brave.”“A husband is not a life insurance policy; you must be independent.”“We must redefine how we see mistakes.”

I’m not sure she fully grasps the energy that runs through the crowd when she decides to end her list of tips with:

“Impostor syndrome is for boys too, but they don’t show it.”

Why Men Need to be Part of the Conversation

Honestly, I don’t remember if we collectively nodded, clapped, or had an “a-ha” moment. Maybe it was all of the above.

What I remember is looking at the men around me with a sense of relief that stood with me for the entire conference. We’re not different; we just express ourselves differently.

This subtle but substantial change in how we understand each other could lead to more open conversations and less discriminatory behaviors.

We all have unique strengths, but the common ground around weaknesses creates a united front.

It’s not one vs the other or instead of the other. It’s us, together with our collective sense of perfect imperfection, that can ignite the innovation engine of our companies.

It might sound naive, but I believe this is the ultimate goal of any conference or panel: change the narrative.

As Becky Hatton is awarded the Pax8 Women in Tech award, reserved for Innovators and leaders who advocate for diversity and inclusion, the words “trailblazer” and “Inspiring” are rightfully used.

I take my glass of champagne and look around at the city of Berlin under us; it’s the perfect setting for this moment.

A city once divided now thrives and reverberates the energy that comes from standing together and being united.

And if a trailblazer is “a person who makes a new track through a wild country,” I can’t help but think that I’m not only looking at Berlin. I’m looking at a new era for women in our industry.

We know what we bring to the table; we are surrounded by male colleagues eager to support and champion us, and we have solid examples of leaders who are unafraid to share their thoughts with us.

We have safe spaces where our feelings are valid and respected, and we’re pushed to pursue what’s best for us.

As I take the elevator down to the vendors’ pavilion to officially kick off Pax8 Beyond, I ask myself: “If 24-year-old Vera was here, what would you say to her?”

Be bold. Be brave.

About Vera Tucci

Vera Tucci is a passionate entrepreneur and the COO of T-Consulting, an IT services company specialising in cybersecurity and business continuity. With a background in Political Science, she co-founded T-Consulting and has navigated multiple roles within the company, embodying the spirit of small business growth.

Vera has lived and lectured in the USA, enriching her global perspective. A strong advocate for inclusivity and gender equality, she is also a dedicated communicator, driven by Maya Angelou’s philosophy of leaving a lasting emotional impact.

Connect with Vera Tucci:Twitter: Vera TucciLinkedIn: Vera TucciWebsite: T-Consulting

You Might Also Be Interested In:Podcast: Co-Managed IT, Cybersecurity and Imposter Syndrome: Top Tips for MSPsebook: Women in TechWhy Ada Lovelace is an Inspiration for Women in Tech Everywhere

The post The Lowdown: Women In Tech Meetup: Pax8 Beyond EMEA appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

The Easy Way to Transition Your MSP to an MSSP

We know that for today’s IT professionals, you have to be adaptable and responsive to the rapid changes in the industry. Otherwise, you could find that your more nimble peers get ahead of you and win the best clients. So now might be the time to move from the MSP model to becoming an MSSP.

Many tech business owners are still making the transition from break/fix to managed service provider (MSP). But the more forward-looking are moving past that. They’re now in the MSSP (managed security service provider) space. And they know that the easiest way to do it well is with an expert partner.

Adding the extra ‘S’ allows MSPs to stay competitive in today’s landscape but before upgrading your service offerings and transitioning from an MSP to an MSSP, you’ll need to build a skilled team, acquire the right and invest in a and solutions that will help you increase efficiency.

What is the Difference Between an MSP and an MSSP?

A standard MSP will offer helpdesk support, monitoring, patching and other updates. Their services ensure efficient IT systems and smooth day-to-day business operations, and manage the overall infrastructure for their clients’ systems. They will use a NOC (network operations centre) and provide tech support, often remotely. 

An MSSP has a clear focus on security, and will tend to have a SOC (security operations centre) as part of their provision. This will actively monitor and deal with cybersecurity threats. Depending on the client requirements, this may be delivered 24/7. 

MSSP services can be more expensive, so there is also the option to offer a collaboration with another MSP to give them additional, white-label support. This is often a good way for them to have out-of-hours monitoring. 

Of course, for the end user, both the MSP and the MSSP are third-party outsourcing partners, so you must be confident in explaining the benefits of becoming an MSSP to your current customers. 

So, you might talk about your security awareness training offer, your pen testing solution or how you keep them compliant. It may be that you need to help clients see that they are at risk of a cybersecurity attack, even if they don’t think they are.

Tech and Upskilling Requirements for MSSPs

Depending on the size of your current team and the solutions your MSP provides, you might need to think about upskilling. Or you may even be in a position to recruit talent with specific knowledge of cybersecurity. 

It’s best to sit down and look objectively at what you have now, before you make any major changes to your services. What are the cost implications for upskilling and recruiting? Do you need to invest in new software or other solutions? What about any compliance requirements for your business?

For instance, you might need to invest in a SIEM (security information and event management) tool. This will give real-time security alerts of both hardware and applications and analyse the risks. A SIEM can manage zero day threats, complex cybersecurity breaches, threat intelligence and behavioural analytics. 

Consider Outsourcing and Processes

We’ve mentioned 24/7 monitoring – will you outsource this? Perhaps to someone with global offices so your clients can be reassured that there’s a real person proactively keeping an eye on their systems.

Plus, you might need to invest in analytics and reporting tools, so you can keep your clients informed and demonstrate that you’re looking for patterns and changes in their networks.

If you operate in a number of verticals, there may be specific requirements there. We’ve already considered governmental and military contracts, but anything involving healthcare or sensitive information needs to be approached thoughtfully. 

And once you’re clear on this, make sure you update all of your business processes. Then, fully brief your employees and make sure they’re on board and have had any questions answered. 

Once you’ve done that, speak to your clients. Give them plenty of notice. And if they’re not keen on working with you as an MSSP, signpost them to a trusted MSP and send them off with no hard feelings. This is key for your reputation, future recommendations and the possibility of them coming back.

Key Frameworks to Know for MSSPs

Where your MSSP and your clients are based, as well as the industries you support, will have an impact on the frameworks you need to be aware of. 

For instance, if you’re a USA-based MSSP, or you support clients in the States, you need to understand NIST. The National Institute of Standards and Technology has outlined a cybersecurity framework to help organisations ‘to better understand and improve their management of cybersecurity risk.’ 

They outline five core functions to make this management more structured; these are identify, protect, detect, respond and recover. NIST offers support and guidance to companies of all sizes. 

Also for the US, you may be required to provide services for sensitive industries that must operate within a defined compliance framework such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) or SOX (Sarbanes-Oxley Act) for example. Make sure you identify relevant frameworks for your target customer.

In the UK, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recommends Cyber Essentials accreditation, at two different levels. First, the self-assessment allows companies to evaluate their own information security policies and processes. 

Secondly, there is a ‘Plus’ option, with the system independently tested and verified by a third party affiliated to NCSC. Depending on the sectors you support, there might be a legal requirement for Plus accreditation. 

Also bear in mind that a smaller company that’s part of a supply chain has a responsibility to all the other businesses within that chain, as well as the end client. This is vital for government or military contracts. 

There are also a range of international ISO standards that might be relevant to your customers. For example, ISO 27001 is designed to improve information security management systems.

Potential Challenges for Microsoft Users

If your MSSP clients use Microsoft Office products, it’s important to be aware of the unique problems they might face. Because the Microsoft shared responsibility model states that customers are responsible for their own data in the case of MS Cloud services like 365 and the fact that Microsoft doesn’t accept liability for any data loss, the responsibility falls to the customer or their trusted IT partner. 

So you need to consider what measures you’ll put in place for security, monitoring, BDR (backup and data recovery)..etc, and have a proactive approach to cybersecurity threats. 

Email, phishing and ransomware attacks are ever-evolving and becoming harder to spot. If you or your clients aren’t prepared for that, it’s only a matter of time before something goes wrong. 

Furthermore, Microsoft SLAs don’t offer coverage for zero-day attacks or viruses / malware that are not “Detectable by popular Antivirus software”, and as cybersecurity experts at Hornetsecurity warn, modern cybercriminals now operate in large organisations and look to use zero-days at every opportunity. 

Another consideration in Microsoft environments is the fact that permissions sprawl is a very real thing. The most vulnerable part of any business is the people, and the more staff who have Microsoft admin permissions (or at least “elevated” permissions), the greater the risk of human error is. 

So look at what you can do to limit this by better data management, greater security systems and optimising operational processes and costs. If you’re making the transition to MSSP now, research potential partners who can support you with this. 

Hornetsecurity Solutions for MSSPs

To help make that research a little easier, check out the offer from ! 

They’ve specifically developed their comprehensive offering which offers an all-in-one solution for M365 security, including email security, backup, compliance, and security awareness training.   This unified suite simplifies security management, reduces risk and safeguards your clients’ data and communications, ensuring business continuity.

And it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with M365 to provide much-needed layers of additional security and data protection and offers value to both IT administrators and end users. 

Alongside that, Hornetsecurity’s ensures settings consistency throughout your customer base. This is an important feature for MSSP users looking for a streamlined approach to managing Microsoft 365.

Plus, a central console makes management easy and convenient, giving the perfect blend of data privacy and ease of use. Via the control centre, IT employees can switch directly from email to backup management and more. So this option makes monitoring, controlling, and optimising filters and configurations much easier. An .

 

What do you think? Can you see the benefits of moving away from the MSP model and finding new opportunities as an MSSP?

You Might Also be Interested inPodcast: Application Security: What MSPs and MSSPs Should Know for SuccessDefence in Depth: Better Results From a Layered Security StrategyHow to Scale Your MSP Without Losing the Personal Touch

The post The Easy Way to Transition Your MSP to an MSSP appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24: Growing Community Beyond the Cloud

The inaugural Pax8 Beyond EMEA event took place in Berlin on 13-15 October 2024 and TeamTubb were there to network, learn and hear what’s new in the channel.

The venue for the conference was the IHG InterContinental Hotel in Berlin, and Pax8 MSP partners mingled with vendors, speakers and a host of experts from the IT industry.

Pax8 Beyond EMEA: Pre-Event Press Conference

The event kicked off with a press conference, with Daniel Skipp of Pax8 PR thanking the delegates, speakers and the media for attending.

He was joined by a panel of Pax8 leaders, including:

Corporate Vice President of Community and Ecosystems, Rob RaePhylip Morgan, EMEA Channel GrowthChannel Chief, Chief Strategy Officer, Ryan WalshElizabeth McIlhany, Chief Product Officer

The panel highlighted the importance of community and building partnerships. And, they gave an update on their future plans and some of their recent initiatives.

Pax8 are committed to innovation and enabling business growth through modern cloud solutions. But to do this well, collaboration is key. They want partners to be involved in shaping the future direction of the company.

So what are the priorities for Pax8? Here are some key objectives:

Expand market reachFoster strategic alliancesInvest in cloud-based technologiesSupport partners to scale their businesses
Nancy Rademaker: The Impacts of Technology

Nancy Rademaker is a keynote speaker and co-founder at Drawify, a Belgian media company. In her presentation, she talked about the profound impact of technology on behaviour, business, and society.

And interestingly, she says that digital technology will become the ‘next normal’ – deeply integrated into daily life.

She acknowledged that tech has grown hugely and rapidly. And human thinking is slower, which is why companies can’t foresee disruptions. So businesses need to adapt quickly and embrace innovation.

Nancy advocates for a balance between ‘high tech vs high touch’. While IT professionals must embrace change and new tech, they also need a human-centred focus. Getting this right means organisational resilience.

Paul Croker: Mental Health for IT Professionals

Paul Croker is the founder of 18IT, a security-focused MSP, and a previous TubbTalk guest. He hosted a breakout session that addressed the significance of mental health awareness in the IT industry. Because the channel is so fast-paced, wellbeing can often be overlooked.

And MSPs are often under pressure: they have high workloads and have to stay ahead in the face of rapid change and tech advancements.

So, Paul advocates for open conversations about mental health and for organisations to prioritise mental health alongside business growth. And employees need to feel that they’re in a supportive workplace where they can share concerns.

Finally, Paul says that leaders need to take proactive steps to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma. This is essential to help employees be productive and have job satisfaction.

Here at Tubblog, we talk a lot about mental health and wellbeing, and have a list of handy resources for you if you’re struggling, or know somebody who is having a tough time.

Libby McIlhany: The Pax8 Marketplace Experience: Pax8 EMEA Beyond

Fresh from the press conference, Elizabeth (Libby) McIlhany took to the stage on Tuesday morning to talk about Pax8‘s cloud marketplace.

First, she highlighted how the marketplace has been redesigned to streamline operations. This enables partners to deliver tailored solutions to their clients.

And the updates include a more intuitive interface, improved navigation, and custom product capabilities to allow users to integrate their own products and services.

Finally, Libby gave updates on two new tools. The ‘Opportunity Explorer’ leverages AI-driven insights to identify sales opportunities, to help partners proactively address customer needs. And a new quoting tool integrates seamlessly with the marketplace, to simplify the process of creating, branding, and sharing custom quotes.

Juan Fernandez: A Pax8 Partner Shares Updates

Juan Fernandez is the Global Channel Leader at SuperOps, and we were fortunate to have him on the TubbTalk podcast. SuperOps are a Pax8 partner, so Juan talked about how that relationship helps the business.

He says their current focus is simplifying IT management for MSPs. So that’s features like streamlined automation, advanced security capabilities, and improved efficiency in managing IT operations.

Juan adds that the collaboration between SuperOps and Pax8 means that they can integrate directly with the cloud marketplace to enhance the offerings for service providers.

Plus, updates such as automation workflows and AI-driven recommendations align with Pax8’s commitment to driving growth for its partners.

Were you there in Berlin? What did you think? Let us know in the comments who your favourite speaker was!

Videos from Pax8 Beyond EMEA

We’ve also compiled a list of the dozen or so videos we recorded live, at Pax8 Beyond!

Check them out in on YouTube in the playlist below.

Pax8 Beyond EMEA Travelogue Podcast

We also recorded a live Travelogue Podcast from the show, with Richard, Gudrun, Lenka!

Have a listen to Travelogue: Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24 for some more insights into the event.

You Might Also be Interested inPodcast: Pax8 Beyond and How to Support MSPs with CybersecurityHow to Help Your MSP Clients to Stay Safe When Using AI Tools

The post Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24: Growing Community Beyond the Cloud appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

Bonusode: Live From Pax8 Beyond EMEA: Rob Rae on Amazing Events

This episode was recorded live in Berlin, Germany at the Pax8 Beyond EMEA conference. Rob Rae is the Corporate Vice President of Community and Ecosystems for Pax8.

An Interview With Rob RaeRob’s Thoughts on the MSP Events Industry

Rob acknowledges that the MSP event space has changed dramatically since he first started: “Because after IT Nation in November, there were no conferences until March. But today, there’s events all year round.

“And these are a big investment, both for delegates and vendors. I think now there are so many to choose from, things are changing. First, everyone has to elevate their game. Second, it’s introducing a whole new breed of tech providers to the space.

“So some events will disappear. You can’t just sit people in a boardroom and talk at them. They need to have fun and engage with their peers. Event attendees want more for that investment.”

How Business is Going for Pax8 Partners

Rob makes a habit of asking MSP owners how business is. And, he says, their response is fairly consistent. “It’s not just the partners here – I ask everyone. Because we’ve built up a relationship and I know them.

“But ultimately, I ask because I want to keep a finger on the pulse of the MSP space. The answer is resoundingly yes. Sure, we’ve had challenges with persuading SMBs to outsource IT, and the pandemic, but overall things are good.

“The one issue is with scalability. Our vendor partners struggle too. They have to make sure they offer enough support and are aware of how things are going. But overall, this is a great time to be an MSP.”

How Vendors are Chosen for the Pax8 Cloud Marketplace

There are two main criteria for Pax8 when it comes to choosing new vendors to include in their marketplace. “First, we want to offer technologies we don’t already have,” says Rob.

“Second, We want tools that our MSP partners are genuinely interested in. We also keep an eye on trending solutions. And to make sure we do that properly, we’ve introduced Rob Reck as our Chief Trust and Security Officer.

“So he’ll do third-party assessments on potential vendors to ensure they’re properly certified. We want our partners to have confidence in us, that we’ve chosen carefully. And that the vendors are taking security seriously – we’ve done our due diligence.”

The Importance of Community for Pax8 Partners

All MSPs and vendors should get involved in peer communities. But sponsoring their events now and then isn’t enough. Instead, says Rob, you need to invite them along to your events too.

“For instance, CompTIA have a booth today. We want to work with them as they expand into the European market, so we’re giving them exposure. We want to go to the MSPs where they’re at. And We want to listen and be present.

“And for vendors, they need to be active and positive. Work with the community to help people grow and change. If we all do that, then the whole community will win. No matter what you do, you can help people.”

How to Connect With Rob RaePax8Follow Pax8 on TwitterLike Pax8 on FacebookFollow Pax8 on LinkedInEmail RobConnect with Rob on FacebookConnect with Rob on LinkedInHow to Connect With MeSubscribe to TubbTalk RSS feedSubscribe, rate and review TubbTalk on iTunesSubscribe and rate TubbTalk on SpotifyFollow TubbTalk on iHeartRadioFollow @tubblog on TwitterMentioned in This EpisodeCybersecurity tech company: CrowdStrikeCybersecurity tech company: SentinelOneSecurity software: TruGridPax8 Chief Trust & Security Officer: Rob ReckOlympic track and field athlete: Carl LewisBusinessman and investor: Robert HerjavecEntrepreneur: Richard BransonIT certifications and training: CompTIACompTIA ChannelConMSP peer group: The Tech TribeMSP owner and Pax8 Beyond EMEA speaker: Paul CrokerPax8 PR: Daniel SkippYou Might Also be Interested inThe Power of Help Through Your Local MSP Peer GroupsPodcast: Pax8 Professional Services: The Benefit of Using it in Your MSPWhy Modern MSPs Should Embrace all Kinds of Networking Groups

The post Bonusode: Live From Pax8 Beyond EMEA: Rob Rae on Amazing Events appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.

Travelogue: Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24

Time for another Team Tubb Travelogue! This time, Gudrun Lauret catches up with Richard Tubb and Lenka Koppova, who are in Berlin for Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24.

Grab a cup of your favourite tea or coffee, relax and join them for a fun conversation about the highlights from this big event.

Richard shares how the community rallied around when he lost his luggage. Lenka talks about how fantastic the event organisation was, from hotel check-in to the closing remarks. Plus, they tell Gudrun how blown away everyone was with the special guest at the after-party!

Other Event Highlights:Women in Tech get-togetherTalks on AI, mental health and Pax8 partnershipsNetworking with new MSPsA busy vendor hallGreat food and drinkExciting updates from Pax8 and partners – plus the announcement of Pax8 Beyond EMEA 2025!

Plus… the Team Tubb Travelogue Quiz is back! Can Richard and Lenka  answer Gudrun’s questions about Berlin?

What is the TubbTalk Travelogue?

These are ad-hoc, bonus episodes of our regular TubbTalk podcast, recorded live at an event. A member of TeamTubb calls Richard and/or Lenka for an on-the-ground update on what they’ve learned and their highlights from the day.

Listen to the Travelogue from Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24
What to Know About the Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24

Pax8 Beyond EMEA was the first time Pax8 brought their popular ‘Beyond’ event to Europe. Pax8 are a cloud marketplace, with a focus on building strong relationships with their MSP partners.

The conference focused on three core themes: community, education and innovation. So speakers, vendors and exhibitors were specially chosen to share their expertise and really give value to attendees.

Read our Event Round-up

Check out Pax8 Beyond EMEA 2024: Growing Community Beyond the Cloud for our round-up from Pax8 Beyond EMEA 2024.

You Might Also be Interested inA New Data-Driven Marketplace and Other Takeaways from Pax8 Beyond 2023Why You Should Make Time for Networking as a Busy MSP OwnerPodcast: Partnerships, Pax8 and MSP Growth: What You Need to Know

Were you at Pax8 Beyond EMEA too? Send us a voice recording with your highlights, and we will add your comments to our next Team Tubb Travelogue!

The post Travelogue: Pax8 Beyond EMEA 24 appeared first on Tubblog: The Hub for MSPs.