Are You Paying Your MSP to Market to You?

“Are you paying your MSP to market to you?” This question might seem ironic, but it’s a reality for many end users. Small to medium-sized Managed Service Providers (MSPs) often lack the vision or business acumen to leverage Market Development Funds (MDF) from vendors to market their businesses. This oversight can lead to an unexpected consequence: customers indirectly footing the bill for the MSP’s marketing efforts.

The Missed Opportunity of MDF Funds

Many vendors offer MDF to IT companies at no cost, provided they continue selling the vendor’s products. To qualify for these funds, MSPs need to have a significant ‘spend’ or be large enough to meet the vendor’s criteria. Unfortunately, many smaller MSPs either don’t qualify or fail to seek out these funds. This missed opportunity means that these MSPs must pass their marketing costs onto their customers. In essence, you, the end user, are paying for them to market to you.

The Irony of Marketing Costs

It’s ironic that while you are paying for the MSP’s marketing, you might not even be aware of it. On the flip side, some MSPs might not be investing anything in marketing to win your business. This lack of investment can be equally unfortunate. Imagine if your IT Services vendors took you out to dinner, played golf with you, or invited you to fun events to earn your business. Not only would this be enjoyable, but it would also be more palatable if you knew you weren’t indirectly paying for it.

The Savvy of Larger Companies

Larger companies, like Resonant, understand the value of MDF funds and have the spending power to qualify for these marketing dollars. This savvy approach allows them to wine and dine their clients without passing the costs onto them. By leveraging MDF funds, these companies can create memorable experiences for their clients, such as attending Spurs games or golfing at TPC, without the clients bearing the financial burden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question of whether you are paying your MSP to market to you is a valid one. Smaller MSPs often miss out on MDF funds, leading to customers indirectly covering marketing costs. On the other hand, larger companies with the vision and resources to secure MDF funds can offer exceptional experiences without passing the costs onto their clients. As an end user, it’s worth considering whether your MSP is making the most of available resources to provide you with the best possible service and experience.