In today’s competitive world of managed IT services, especially for platforms like Microsoft 365, standing out from the crowd is crucial. You might wonder, “What makes me different?” The answer often lies not just in technical skills but in the mindset and characteristics you bring to your business. I’ve learned this from The Freelance Movement Tribe, a community that emphasizes actionable strategies for success. Below, I’ll share six essential characteristics that I believe can set you apart and drive your success.

1. Action: Just Show Up

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned is that success often begins with simply showing up. It’s easy to get caught up in planning, strategizing, and thinking about the perfect approach, but none of that matters if you don’t take action. The more you put yourself out there, the more opportunities you’ll encounter. Showing up consistently builds momentum, and with every step, you gain wisdom.

In the context of Managed IT Services, taking action might mean reaching out to potential clients, staying updated on Microsoft 365 features, or even troubleshooting problems before they become major issues. Each step you take builds your reputation and expertise, leading to more opportunities down the road.

2. Focus: Prioritize One Task at a Time

In an industry where multitasking is often seen as a badge of honor, the ability to focus on one task at a time can be a game-changer. Research has shown that multitasking reduces productivity by up to 40%, as your brain constantly shifts gears between tasks. By focusing on one task, you harness your full cognitive resources, allowing you to perform at your best.

For a Managed IT Service provider, this could mean dedicating your full attention to solving a client’s issue before moving on to the next task. By doing so, you not only ensure a higher quality of work but also build trust with your clients. Remember, success is often just a consequence of following the process with full concentration and dedication.

3. Feedback: Learn and Adjust

Feedback is a powerful tool for growth. It provides a mirror through which you can see your strengths and weaknesses. In the world of IT services, where technology and client needs constantly evolve, being open to feedback is essential.

Don’t fear failure or criticism—view them as opportunities for improvement. Whether it’s feedback from a client about a service you’ve provided or from a colleague about a new approach, this input allows you to learn and adapt. By embracing feedback, you refine your skills and enhance your business offering.

4. Routine: Embrace Simplicity and Consistency

A successful business is often built on simple, consistent routines. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new ideas and trends, but the reality is that consistency breeds success.

For Managed IT Services, this could mean establishing a routine for system checks, updates, and client communication. By making these tasks part of your daily routine, you ensure that nothing falls through the cracks. While it might seem repetitive, this consistency is what keeps your business running smoothly and keeps your clients satisfied.

5. Grit: Adapt and Persevere

Charles Darwin once said, “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” This idea of adaptability is central to success, especially in a field like IT where change is constant.

Grit isn’t just about working hard—it’s about being resilient in the face of challenges and flexible enough to adapt when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s a sudden system outage or a client request that pushes your boundaries, having the grit to stay focused on your goals while adapting to new circumstances is key.

In Managed IT Services, unexpected challenges are part of the job. How you respond to those challenges can make all the difference. The ability to stay calm, think creatively, and adapt quickly will set you apart from others who may crumble under pressure.

6. Repeat: Success is a Process

Business success isn’t a one-time achievement; it’s the result of continuous effort. The characteristics above—action, focus, feedback, routine, and grit—aren’t just steps you take once. They’re part of a cycle that repeats itself over and over.

By consistently applying these principles, you build a strong foundation for your business. The more you repeat these steps, the more ingrained they become in your approach to work, leading to sustained success.

Bringing It All Together: The CPM Triangle

These characteristics are crucial for success, but how do they fit into the bigger picture of your business and personal goals? This is where the CPM Triangle—Capabilities, Primary Income, and Money Management—comes into play.

• Capabilities: By taking action, focusing, and seeking feedback, you’re constantly enhancing your capabilities. In the world of IT, staying updated with Microsoft 365 features and learning new skills are vital.
• Primary Income: Routine and grit directly contribute to your primary income. The consistency in delivering high-quality services and the ability to adapt in challenging situations ensure that your clients stay satisfied, leading to repeat business and referrals.
• Money Management: Finally, as you build your business and income, managing your finances wisely allows you to invest in further growth, whether it’s through new certifications, tools, or expanding your services.

Conclusion: The Path to Success

In the world of Managed IT Services for Microsoft 365, what makes you different isn’t just your technical skills—it’s how you approach your business and your clients. By embodying the characteristics of action, focus, feedback, routine, grit, and repetition, you set yourself up for long-term success.

Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a process that requires continuous effort and a willingness to learn and adapt. As you move forward, keep these principles at the core of your business, and you’ll find that not only will your skills grow, but so will your opportunities for success.