Cisco network devices have become old hat to you and you have become a master of Cisco computer networking. Your business is installing Cisco networking equipment at clients' sites. You then use Cisco network tools to manage your clients' networks remotely. But you want more business, not to mention more resources, so you’re thinking about becoming a Cisco certified networking authorized partner.

Cisco has several programs that will help you and your employees. These programs are also designed to increase your revenues. Being a Cisco Channel Partner will help you to:

1. grow your business by selling Cisco systems networking;
2. set your business apart from your competitors; and
   
3. get your employees Cisco-certified in Cisco systems networking.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Join the Cisco Channel Partner Program to learn more about Cisco computer networking

Promote your business to customers by getting yourself and your employees Cisco-certified. This program enables you to team with the Cisco's sales team so that you can benefit from more sales opportunities. Companies like to see that you're associated with a company like Cisco because it instills confidence and trust. They know if there's a problem that you cannot handle that Cisco is right there. Companies will likely do business with you as opposed to a company that is not a Cisco partner.

I recommend: Cisco explains how the company and its partners benefit from Cisco’s Channel Partner Program. Revenues have grown for these parties. VAR Business explains the workings of the program.

Use Cisco's Managed Services Channel Program (MSCP) for managed services businesses

If you're in the managed services business, the MSCP program will be ideal for you. Likely you sell Cisco customer premise equipment (CPE) or used Cisco networking equipment. This program is designed to help you sell more Cisco network devices by giving you discounts; that way, your business will earn a large return on your investment. Cisco helps you with marketing by providing marketing materials. Cisco also will provide your employees sales training on its networking solutions. Being a member of the MSCP entitles you to use the Cisco Powered Managed Service brand. This brand was specifically designed for the MSCP.

I recommend: Network World outlines how businesses all over the world profit from Cisco’s Managed Services Channel Program. Managed services is a profitable business, especially to emerging markets; ChannelWorld India is promoting the program.

Sell Cisco networking equipment and get Cisco-certified with the Resale Channel Program

The program will help your business to diversify in Cisco's technologies, such as Cisco data center networking, Cisco storage networking and others. Get your employees Cisco-certified. When your employees specialize in these technologies, your business will gain more services and revenues because your customers will trust their expertise.

I recommend: Look at the Resale Channel Program on Cisco’s website. You and your employees will want to take advantage of the training and certification that Cisco Networking provides. CPI also focuses on the benefits of the Resale Channel Program.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Register with the Cisco Channel Partner Program, and you can have your business in the Partner Locator section on Cisco's website. This will help you get a head start on marketing your business.