Running a Managed Service Provider (MSP) business can feel like navigating a maze—constantly adapting to evolving technology, cybersecurity threats, and increasing client demands. One of the biggest game-changers in my professional journey was joining a peer group. I was part of HTG, which later became ConnectWise Evolve, and it transformed the way I operated my business.
If you’re an MSP or an SMB looking to scale, joining a peer group can be the catalyst for exponential growth. Here’s why:
1. Learn from Industry Experts & Peers
Peer groups bring together like-minded business leaders who have already faced (and solved) many of the challenges you’re experiencing. Instead of trial and error, you get proven strategies from those who have been there.
In groups like ConnectWise Evolve, Taylor Business Group, and The ASCII Group, members share best practices, operational insights, and vendor strategies that can shave years off your learning curve.
✅ Key Takeaway: You don’t have to figure everything out alone—your peers have already walked the path.
2. Accountability Drives Real Business Growth
It’s easy to get stuck in the daily grind, working in your business rather than on it. Peer groups hold you accountable for setting goals and following through.
Regular check-ins, quarterly reviews, and strategy sessions keep you focused on the bigger picture, ensuring that you’re not just maintaining but growing your MSP.
✅ Key Takeaway: A strong peer group pushes you to level up and execute on your business goals.
3. Exclusive Insights on Industry Trends & Best Practices
The IT landscape moves fast—cybersecurity threats, automation, and AI are reshaping the industry. Peer groups give you a front-row seat to the latest trends, often before they hit mainstream discussions.
Many groups, such as Channel Program Peer Groups, have direct connections with top vendors and analysts, giving members access to early insights on industry shifts, partner programs, and new tech.
✅ Key Takeaway: Stay ahead of the competition by leveraging insider knowledge from industry experts.
4. Build Valuable Partnerships & Referral Networks
One of the biggest hidden benefits of peer groups is the business opportunities they create. Many MSPs have formed strategic partnerships and referral networks within their groups.
For example, an MSP specializing in cybersecurity might partner with another MSP that focuses on cloud services, expanding revenue opportunities for both.
✅ Key Takeaway: Your peer group isn’t just a learning space—it’s a business-building ecosystem.
5. Solve Problems Faster with a Support System
Every MSP faces tough challenges—pricing strategies, hiring top talent, or dealing with difficult clients. Instead of navigating these issues alone, a peer group provides an instant support network to bounce ideas off of.
Many members form lifelong friendships and even mentor relationships that help them through rough patches in their business journey.
✅ Key Takeaway: A peer group is more than a business resource—it’s a lifeline for tough decisions and challenges.
Final Thoughts: Join a Peer Group, Scale Your MSP
Joining a peer group was one of the best decisions I ever made for my business. Whether you’re an MSP or an SMB, surrounding yourself with successful peers accelerates your growth like nothing else.
If you’re considering joining a peer group, here are some of the top options in the IT and MSP space:
- ConnectWise Evolve (formerly HTG)
- TruMethods Peer Groups
- Taylor Business Group
- The ASCII Group
- Service Leadership Peer Groups
- GTIA Peer Groups
- MSP-Ignite Peer Groups
- Bering McKinley Peer Groups
- Channel Mastered Peer Groups
- Technology Marketing Toolkit (TMT) Producer’s Club
- IT Owners Compass (ITOC) Peer Groups
- Pax8 Acedemy
- MSP Geek
- SMBiT Professionals – Peer Group
Each of these groups offers unique benefits, from business strategy and accountability to networking and vendor partnerships. Find the one that aligns with your goals and take the leap—your next level of success starts with the right peer group. 🚀
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