Microsoft SBSC - What’s in it for me?
September 25, 2009 – 11:28 amI’m often asked by Microsoft Parnters why I evangalize the SBSC program and why their firm should become an SBSC (besides the $1000 of MDF). After giving several reasons the next thing they always ask is how they can become and SBSC. Below is Microsoft’s answer to both of these questions.
Leading the Way to Economic Recovery.
Join a community of trusted Small Business Technology Advisors.
Does your company specialize in the design, deployment, and customization of
small business solutions using Microsoft technologies?
• Are you an active member of the Microsoft® Partner Network?
• Would you like to be a part of a community of over 6,500 Small Business Technology Advisors?
• Are you looking for exclusive member benefits?
Then join the Microsoft Small Business Specialist Community and take advantage of these members-only
benefits that can help build your business:
1. Small Business Specialist logo and branding
As a member you have access to the Microsoft Small Business Specialist logo to help you differentiate your offering and win
more business.
2. Increased exposure to customers in Microsoft directories (Partner Finder & Solution Finder)
The Partner Finder allows customers to enter their zip code to find Small Business Specialists in their local area. The Solution
Finder allows customers to use an advanced search form to refine their search criteria.
3. Privileged access to the Microsoft Local Engagement Team
The Local Engagement Team, comprised of ten locally-based Business Development Managers, is a resource to help you
successfully drive marketing and sales efforts.
4. Small Business Specialist Online Technical Community
The Online Technical Community offers break-fix technical support generally within four hours on a variety of Microsoft
products, issues, and questions—during local business hours, Monday through Friday.
5. Automatic registration to the SBSC Newsletter
Receive an exclusive monthly SBSC Program communication with the most current and relevant information on Microsoft
incentives, promotions, and opportunities.
6. Access to the SBSC Exclusive Resources website
An exclusive SBSC resource providing the latest news, training, sales tools, and opportunities.
7. Complimentary subscription to the SMB Partner Community Magazine
SMB Partner Community magazine focused on core SMB content for the Small Business IT professional.
How to join the Small Business
Specialist Community
To qualify as a Small Business Specialist, you must have a proven competency in marketing, selling, planning, and building solutions for your small-business customers. All active Microsoft Partner Program members who meet the Small Business Specialist requirements are eligible to enroll.
Enroll : Complete these steps and you’ll be automatically enrolled in the Microsoft Small Business Specialist Community.
Step 1: Enroll in the Microsoft Partner Program
Visit https://partner.microsoft.com/us/40032508
Step 2: Subscribe to either Microsoft Action Pack or Empower for ISVs*
Visit https://partner.microsoft.com/us/40016455
Step 3: Pass the online Small Business Sales & Marketing Skills Assessment
Visit https://partner.microsoft.com/us/40020838
Step 4: Pass one of five technical exams
Visit https://partner.microsoft.com/US/program/40021562
*Only applicable to Registered members of the Microsoft Partner Network.
For questions on the SBSC Program, call: 1-877-254-6825, or email msppexp@microsoft.com
Additional Resources
Training Resources:
https://partner.microsoft.com/US/program/40044624
Program Overview:
https://partner.microsoft.com/US/program/smallbusinessspecialist
Frequently Asked Questions:
https://partner.microsoft.com/US/program/40021563
Benefits and Requirements:
https://partner.microsoft.com/us/program/smallbusinessspecialist/sbsbenefits#Req
Step-by-step enrollment Guide:
https://partner.microsoft.com/us/program/smallbusinessspecialist/40021558