Last fall, I was fortunate enough to have an opportunity to spend three days with the TruMethods Winner's Circle Members. The Winner's Circle is comprised of about 40 companies, divided into four groups, which meet three times a year to brainstorm, network, and problem solve.
Personally, it was great to connect with several members of the group, some of whom are customers, and getting to know them. I had an opportunity to spend time with Gary Pica and Bob Penland, two innovators and leaders in the MSP field. Professionally, I presented my 6 Lessons Learned From Starting, Building, and Selling My MSP Practice slide deck which got a lot of conversation going. It was a phenomenal experience both personally and professional and here are a few reasons why the event was so fantastic:
- Everyone Was On The Same Page: All the members of the Winner's Circle are focused on growing their businesses, and are open to suggestions, ideas, and challenges from their peers. Although they had a good time together outside of the meetings, once they were seated at the table and in session, it was all business and everyone was laser focused.
- They Hold Each Other Accountable: Every participant had an opportunity to present their update in what is called the "Hot Seat". Although I couldn't sit in on the meetings, I saw everyone's reaction as they exited the "hot seat" session and it looked intense. These sessions are focused on feedback and holding each other accountable to their plans, strategies, and goals.
- Everyone Helps Raise The Bar: Gary and the TruMethods Team screens all their Winners Circle members and make sure they fit the criteria. If you start to fall behind or fail to pull your weight, you're out of the program, ensuring that everyone is on the same page. By being held to a high standard, the group has to elevate its performance, both collectively and individually.
- Small And Personal Is Unique: Today, everyone is trying to get as big as possible as quickly as possible. TruMethods takes a slower, more deliberate approach to growth. I asked Bob Penland why he didn't expand the groups, and he remarked that he liked the intimacy that comes with smaller groups. "I like that I know each of them, I know their business, their families, and their hobbies," he told me during dinner.
Any MSP that is interested in growing their business, I would recommend reaching out to Gary and his team and get on the waiting list to join the Winner's Circle. You won't be sorry and your business will be better for it.