Phin Security

Should You Use YouTube to Grow Your MSP Business? (2/3)

In this podcast episode, Tom Lawrence, a tech YouTuber and MSP CEO, advises MSPs to grow their business on YouTube by creating expert-driven, niche tech content that answers client questions—highlighting that even small channels can generate substantial revenue by providing practical, problem-solving videos that help both clients and help desk staff, emphasizing the value of focused, evolving content over lifestyle vlogging.

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Podcast Episode: Should You Use YouTube to Grow Your MSP Business? (Part 2)

Guests:

  • Connor Swalm (Host, CEO at Phin Security)
  • Tom Lawrence (CEO and founder of Lawrence Technology, YouTuber)

Getting Started on YouTube

Tom Lawrence shares his experience and advice on starting a YouTube channel, especially for those in the tech and MSP (Managed Service Provider) space.

Key Points:

  • Getting Started is Easier Now:

    • The market is more crowded, but the tools and access are better.
    • Avoid trying to be a lifestyle vlogger unless you are truly engaging and compelling.
    • Focus on creating tech content or content you are passionate about and have expertise in.

  • "You Ask, The Answer":

    • Listen to your clients and audience. What questions do they ask? Make videos answering those questions.
    • Even niche channels with modest subscriber counts can generate significant revenue by being recognized as experts.
    • Example: A channel with 10,000-15,000 subscribers making $30,000/month by training people on Azure and Microsoft Office.

  • Content Ideas:

    • Start with questions you get from clients.
    • Even mundane tech topics (like sorting email or changing filters in Outlook) can be valuable.
    • Help desk staff often use such videos to answer tickets.
    • Real-world example: Verizon corporate sent Tom's firewall setup videos to their end users.

  • People Prefer Video Answers:

    • Many people prefer searching for a video solution rather than calling an expert.
    • Short, direct videos that solve specific problems are highly valued.

  • Channel Evolution:

    • Don’t be afraid to pivot your content as you learn what works and what you enjoy.
    • Early content may be experimental (e.g., repair videos, tutorials).
    • Find alignment between your passion and what the audience wants.

Gear and Production Value

  • Start Simple:

    • Don’t get caught up in buying expensive gear at the start.
    • Constraints can foster creativity.
    • Tom still uses an 8-9 year old Yeti microphone for podcasts.
    • Many successful videos were filmed on basic webcams (e.g., Logitech c920).
    • Focus on content quality and storytelling, not equipment.

  • Upgrade Only When Needed:

    • Only invest in better gear when you consistently hit limitations (e.g., poor audio quality).
    • Even top YouTubers often use simple cameras (iPhones, GoPros).

  • Storytelling Matters:

    • The narrative and clarity of your content are more important than production value.
    • Structure your videos with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
    • End the video when you’ve delivered all the value—don’t add unnecessary filler.

Overcoming Barriers to Starting

  • Public Speaking and Camera Shyness:
    • Editing your own videos helps you become more aware of your speaking habits and improve over time.
    • Consider joining groups like Toastmasters to practice public speaking.
    • Communicating clearly is a valuable skill for both YouTube and professional life.

Practical Tips for Starting a Channel

  • Channel Setup:
    • Create your YouTube channel as a sub-channel, not under your personal Gmail username.
    • This allows for easier management, co-creators, and avoids being stuck with an unchangeable channel name.
    • Even large creators can’t easily change this after the fact.

Final Advice

  • Just get started—don’t overthink the gear or your on-camera presence.
  • Be passionate about your content.
  • Make sure to set up your channel correctly from the beginning.

This was part two of a three-part series on using YouTube to grow your business. Stay tuned for the next episode for more insights on getting started with YouTube and leveraging it for business growth.