

Partnerships Unraveled
Partnerships Unraveled
The weekly podcast where we unravel the mysteries of partnerships and channel to help you become more successful.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 19, 2024 • 26min
098 - Gaidar Magdanurov - Partner Sales and Marketing Enablement
Gaidar Magdanurov, President of Acronis, shares the innovative approach Acronis has taken to evolve from a backup company into a leader in cyber protection. Gaidar shares the essential steps Acronis is taking to empower their partners, including robust technical and sales training, enabling them to effectively communicate the value of holistic security solutions to their customers.We also tackle the critical components for Managed Service Providers (MSPs) to thrive, from customer acquisition to upselling strategies and the importance of a solid backup and recovery policy. Gaidar discusses the power of value-based marketing, showcasing how MSPs can frame their services in terms of customer value rather than technical jargon. Connect with Gaidar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaidar/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Aug 12, 2024 • 40min
097 - Maciek Szczesniak - Supporting SMB Partners
Unlock the secrets of the SMB channel as we bring you an insightful conversation with Maciek "Magic" Szczesniak. Magic takes us through his transition from the corporate world to founding his own venture, Go With Magic, and shares his passion for empowering SMBs and channel partners. Explore the transformative power of AI and effective marketing strategies tailored specifically for SMBs. Magic delves into the importance of communicating clear, business-oriented messages and leveraging channel partners to expand reach. Learn how AI can provide a competitive edge by enhancing productivity, unlocking new business opportunities, and addressing resource constraints. Transitioning from being a traditional reseller to a Managed Service Provider (MSP) can be daunting, but Magic offers practical strategies to help navigate this complex journey. From developing service packages to managing deferred revenue, and from consultative sales to system integration, gain insights on making this shift profitable. Join us for an episode packed with actionable advice and industry expertise!Connnect with Magic: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mszczesniak/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Aug 5, 2024 • 27min
096 - Sam Valme - Leveraging Channel Partners for SMB Growth
Sam Valme, Senior Director of US Channel Sales at AvePoint, discusses the importance of channel partnerships for ISVs and the strategic decision to focus on the channel after going public. He highlights the need to leverage the sales force through the channel and the role of distribution partners, MSPs, VARs, and SIs. Sam shares the process of building and formalizing AvePoint's global partner program, including developing a dedicated team, listening to regional partners, and creating a partner portal. He emphasizes the importance of executive buy-in, building a purpose-built platform for partners, and providing enablement and education. Sam also discusses the advantages of growing the long tail of partners, the financial differences in running a channel, and the importance of winning the hearts and minds of engineers within partner organizations.Connect with Sam Valme: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samvalmejr/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jul 29, 2024 • 31min
095 - Oren Yehudai - SMB Channel Mastery
What are the essential strategies for mastering SMB channel management? Join us as we uncover the secrets with Oren, an experienced channel expert who brings over two decades of wisdom to the table. Currently at the helm of the SMB sales organization for EMEA at Sophos, Oren offers a deep dive into the nuanced differences in managing SMB partners versus larger partners. We'll unpack the significance of volume growth, predictability, and profitability and reveal why automation and streamlined communication are critical for handling smaller partners effectively.Oren shares his keen insights into the importance of distributor enablement, how to drive reseller engagement, and the profound impact of rebate strategies. Learn how vendors and distributors can collaborate to foster sustainable growth and achieve predictable business outcomes.But that's not all. We also explore the pivotal role of distribution strategies in optimizing long-tail segments and maintaining vendor-distributor alignment. Oren emphasizes the importance of tracking KPIs and the need for regular, segmented reviews to understand performance. We delve into the value of varied experiences for channel leaders, mentorship of young talent, and the unique opportunities available in distribution. Tune in to discover practical strategies and inspiring stories that will help you succeed in SMB channel management!Connect with Oren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orenyehudai/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jul 22, 2024 • 31min
094 - Christian Goffi - Modernizing Partner Engagement With AI
Prepare to revolutionize your understanding of AI's role in business with channel leader Christian Goffi from Nutanix. Discover how AI transforms customer-facing and internal operations, and learn why structured data and language models are critical for agility and improved customer interactions. We're also redefining partner enablement and relationship building. Move beyond the outdated, repetitive training sessions and embrace dynamic, effective strategies that cater to modern learners. We'll share insights on how to create engaging, timely training content that aligns with immediate needs and fosters confidence in selling. Finally, we'll tackle the often-overlooked importance of measuring the ROI on Marketing Development Funds (MDF) and the pivotal role of distribution in go-to-market strategies. Tune in to learn how to secure future MDF through merit-based allocation and the essential contributions of a well-thought-out distribution strategy to business success.Connect with Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-goffi-7665622/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jul 15, 2024 • 23min
093 - Harold Nelissen - Building Customer-Centric Partner Programs
Unlock the secrets to revolutionizing your partner programs with insights from Harold Nelissen, a partner programs expert from Trend Micro! This week on Partnerships Unraveled, Harold reveals how transitioning from traditional, transaction-based models to customer-centric strategies can transform your partner relationships.Learn how understanding customer needs and working backward can create a win-win scenario for both partners and customers, enhancing the overall experience. Harold shares Trend Micro’s innovative approach of using back-end rebates and incentives to reward partners for behaviors like acquiring new logos, upselling, and obtaining competencies, driving customer-focused success.Understand the importance of adaptable KPIs and program benefits for fostering innovative and expansive partnerships. From managing boutique versus enterprise partners to the evolving role of channel managers, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to building scalable, consistent, and future-focused channel partnerships. Don’t miss out on Harold’s expert tips that can unlock new revenue streams and drive your partner program's success!Connect with Harold on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldnelissen/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jul 10, 2024 • 31min
092 - Anurag Agrawal - How to Build an SMB Channel
Ready to unlock the secrets of the SMB and mid-market channel? Join us on Partnerships Unraveled as we navigate this evolving landscape with Anurag Agrawal from TechAisle. Discover how industry giants like Cisco and Microsoft are directing their efforts toward these segments.Anurag shares his valuable insights on SMBs' unique behaviors and challenges, their keen interest in AI and cloud solutions, and the essential shift toward customer-centric strategies for engaging smaller, loyalty-driven partners.We also tackle the complexities that IT vendors face when it comes to channel marketing and partner incentives. Learn the vital importance of marketing both to and through partners, and the transition from traditional monolithic systems to adaptable modular stacks. Anurag delves into the diminishing role of Market Development Funds (MDF) and the rise of Solution Development Funds (SDF) and outcome-based financing, which are proving to be more impactful. Tune in to understand how AI-powered PCs and workshops can drive SMB success, and why extended battery life and business application compatibility are crucial. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for vendors aiming to thrive in this competitive market.Connect with Anurag: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anuragagrawal1/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jul 8, 2024 • 21min
091 - Craig Patterson - AI Driven Channel Success
Learn how to drive channel success by leveraging AI with Craig Patterson, SVP of Global Channels at Aryaka. Craig brings his wealth of experience to reveal how Aryaka's channel-first strategy drives over 90% of its revenue by fostering trusted relationships with enterprise clients. Learn about the transition from transactional to value-driven engagements, the changing dynamics in global markets, especially Europe, and the critical role flexible purchasing options play in meeting customer needs.We venture into the future of AI in channel go-to-market strategies. Whether it's prospecting, customer engagement, or support, find out how AI is making sales processes more efficient and effective. Don't miss this packed episode full of actionable insights!Connect with Craig on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/globalchannel/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jul 1, 2024 • 25min
090 - Partnescore - 7 Predictors of Partnership Success
If you've ever wondered why some partnerships thrive while others falter, this episode is your roadmap to understanding the 7 elements that predict success. Discover the often-overlooked heartbeat of channel partnerships—human relationships—as we sit down with Owen McKee and Dave Ward from Partnerscore.io.- The seven core predictors that Owen and Dave have distilled from their extensive research. - How commitment, credibility, and the art of conflict resolution, among others, can make or break your business relationships. - How to avoid potential partnership pitfalls and foster a thriving collaborative environment.Connect with our guests Dave and Owen:Dave: https://www.linkedin.com/in/djward1/Owen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/owenmckee/_________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners

Jun 24, 2024 • 41min
089 - Chris Jones - Building a Partner Centric Culture
Industry expert Chris Jones joins us to share his firsthand experience on transitioning from a direct sales force to an indirect approach. Discover how AT&T redefined their relationship with partners, revamped compensation models, and simplified contracts to foster trust and reliability. Get inspired by the revolutionary mindset of the Savannah Bananas baseball team, as we draw parallels to AT&T’s efforts in creating a partner-first mentality. Learn how empowering employees to prioritize customer satisfaction and breaking free from rigid processes can lead to extraordinary outcomes. _________________________Learn more about Channext 👇 https://channext.com/ Watch on YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@channext #channelmarketing #channelpartners