If you’re a small business owner, especially an MSP, you’ve probably found yourself in a tough spot at some point. Maybe you’re stretched thin, juggling technical work while also handling invoicing, scheduling, or other admin tasks. Yet, you can’t afford to hire another engineer. You’re stuck—but here’s the good news: there are alternatives.
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Start With The Lowest-Paid Work
One of the biggest mistakes I see MSP owners make is trying to do it all. If you’re the owner and also the technician, accountant, and office manager, you’re not running a business—you’re running yourself into the ground. The key is to delegate strategically, and that means starting with the lowest-paid work.
If hiring another engineer is out of your budget, consider hiring an administrative assistant instead. You don’t need a $70,000 engineer to answer phones, handle billing, or order office supplies. A part-time admin assistant earning $20,000 annually can take these tasks off your plate, freeing you up to focus on high-value activities like technical work or client acquisition.
Outsourcing: A Flexible And Cost-Effective Solution
Not ready to commit to an employee? Outsourcing might be your next best option. You can outsource low-level tasks or specialized technical functions using 1099 contractors. This approach eliminates the fully burdened cost of a W-2 employee, such as payroll taxes and benefits, and gives you more flexibility.
Many business owners outsource help desk functions or Level 3 support to managed services or freelance professionals. By delegating these responsibilities, you can focus on growing your business rather than getting bogged down by the day-to-day grind.
A Few Key Benefits To Outsourcing
- Scalability: You only pay for what you need, whether it’s a few hours a week or a major project.
- Expertise: Contractors often bring specialized skills, allowing you to offload complex tasks without investing in full-time salaries or training.
- Efficiency: By focusing your time on high-value tasks, you increase productivity and revenue.
The Mindset Shift You Need
As an entrepreneur, your time is your most valuable resource. Every minute you spend on administrative tasks or low-level technical work is time you’re not spending on strategy, sales, or client relationships. Think of it this way: if you’re billing $150 per hour but spending time on $15-per-hour tasks, you’re losing money.
It’s not about cutting corners—it’s about operating smarter. Whether it’s hiring a part-time admin, outsourcing help desk functions, or leveraging contractors for specialized tasks, there are creative ways to lighten your load without breaking the bank.
If you’re ready to take control of your time and focus on what really matters, start by evaluating what’s currently on your plate. Then ask yourself: “What can I delegate or outsource to free up my time and grow my business?”
