VARs: 4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Channel Partner Programs

channel partner program success

They include…

1. Train yourself, or get trained

All vendors should offer courses to partners to get them up-to-speed on their products and services. These trainings can be a combination of in person, on demand, videos, or even full day courses. These training sessions can help you better understand the products you are now offering and in some cases offer advice on how to attract particular types of customers that you may wish to target. Take advantage of those training opportunities.

2. Talk to other members of partner program

When joining a new partner program it is wise to get to know peer members of the program. They will offer insight into the vendor’s practices and policies as well as tips on how to be successful with this vendor. If you chose your partner program wisely the vendor won’t be over distributed. Translation: Peer VARs and MSPs won’t view you as a threat or as competition. Instead you will be able to collaborate with other partners on a consistent basis and work with one another for mutual success. Start getting to know other partners when you first join the program and you will make valuable business contacts that will help your business thrive in all different aspects.

3. Become an expert on how products serve particular verticals

It is not enough to understand how a product works; successful partners also know how the products solve specific problems. If your company already has a specific vertical expertise, ask the vendor if they have messaging or information about their product satisfying the needs of that vertical. Customer success stories are another great resource. Ask if they have any customer stories that can be shared and talk to the partners you are developing relationships with; those efforts will help you to determine if vendors and peers have customer references you can talk to so you can understand their needs and how this product satisfied their business needs.

4. Take advantage of marketing dollars and resources

And finally, once you join a partner program ask to set up a meeting with the marketing department to discuss what kinds of programs they offer. Events, email marketing campaigns, co-op dollars and other program

Bob Darabant VP Americas

Bob Darabant is VP of Astaro Americas. This monthly guest blog is part of The VAR Guy’s annual sponsorship program.