Behind any thriving company's "secret sauce" is a deeper truth rooted in the fact that no business is a standalone entity.
Rather, all businesses are deeply interdependent, relying on one another to provide useful tools, skills, and services. It's a network, a web, a rich tapestry, and it's beautiful.
Starting any business inherently means joining into this complex system, filling those gaps in process, knowledge, systems, scalability, and efficiency.
Whether a Fortune 500 or just a simple startup, they all rely on 3rd-part tools and services for things like CRM, payroll, project management, human resources, and much more.
As they mature, many will create internal, home-grown systems and processes that are uniquely their own, but not for everything. The rest (the majority in fact) will come from this elegant, interconnected business ecosystem.
The same can be said for developing non-physical assets and partnerships for things like knowledge workers, consulting expertise, creative talent, and so on. Using specialized 3rd-party firms/agencies is commonplace in today's world, vs. bringing all those resources in-house.
In my 25+ year career in technology, I have experienced all sides of this intricate journey. I have hired and fired, built specialized internal tools, purchased and implemented 3rd-party platforms, developed myself into a "go-to person" (a multi-discipline resource who gets things done), and I have served as a trusted consultant for many companies who needed guidance and expertise.
From this colorful background, I have come to realize the most important thing of all -- How you treat people and how you solve their problems are what matter most. Mindset, attitude, servant leadership, and communication styles all play major roles in affecting positive outcomes.
That is why my own Partner/Co-Founder and I started Tailwind IT. He believes as I do that helping to make other businesses successful starts with how you operate and how you deliver on the promises you make.
When it comes to serving our clients, we ask questions, we listen closely, we learn, we gain clarity on what "success" looks like to them. We then create a plan, enshrine it in best practices, and deliver on our commitment to provide the best possible client experience and outcomes.
Most times things go right, and sometimes things go wrong. It's a journey, a trek, not an easy walking path. Of the many blessings are how we treat each other along the way, how we overcome obstacles, solve challenges, and how our communication style (our "way of being") builds trust and rapport with those whom we interact with.
These are all things businesses look for in a strong, solid, worthwhile partner. One who has your back and you best interests in mind, helping you to grow and scale your business.
There are many partners out there to choose from, depending on your specific business needs. Make sure to spend time vetting them thoroughly before signing on the dotted line. When vetting tools, look at product testimonials, brand recognition, company size/growth rate, source of funding, and so forth.
When vetting services (such as managed services, consultants, etc.), look for case studies, customer references, what industries do they serve, how they structure their approach and processes, and ask lots of questions to test their knowledge and expertise for any areas you need the most help with. All in all, this will help you determine the right alignment and fit.
In the areas of Salesforce CRM, IT Security, and Cybersecurity, I can tell you that Tailwind IT just may be the partner you are looking for. We offer a boutique service style that is hands-on, proactive, and highly-tailored to the specific needs of each client.
We have Managed Service offerings, consulting offerings, and a deep knowledge of technologies and systems businesses need to stay safe, secure, risk-avoidant, fine-tuned, and ultimately -- successful.
If my words have resonated with you today, give me a shout out on LinkedIn. Even better, if you could repost or share this article, you would make my day. Thank you for reading.
Much love,
Robert Haines
Co-Founder & CEO, Tailwind IT
www.TailwindIT.co
Tailwind is a global provider of managed IT services and cybersecurity solutions, offering industry-leading support, cybersecurity, cloud, salesforce, infrastructure and compliance services. As one of the top MSPs, Tailwind's 24/7/365 US-staffed support team designs technology solutions to accelerate business and reduce IT risks.