In this episode of the Bear Business Vodcast, Chris Barnard interviews Phil Storey, founder of Glow, about the critical role of website support and maintenance in business success.

Phil shares his journey from running a web design agency to creating Glow, a platform that integrates support and maintenance services. They discuss the challenges agencies face in selling maintenance packages and the importance of proactive website management to mitigate security risks and drive business growth. Phil emphasizes the value of effective communication between agencies and clients, and he highlights Glow’s unique features, including white labeling and reporting capabilities.

Looking ahead, both Chris and Phil acknowledge the evolving landscape of web development, particularly with the rise of AI, while affirming the continued importance of websites for businesses.

Highlights

Introduction to the Episode

Chris Barnard introduces the episode of the Bear Business Vodcast, featuring Phil Story, founder of Glow. They discuss the significance of website support and maintenance as a competitive advantage for businesses.

Phil's Journey to Founding Glow

Phil shares his background, detailing his experience running a web design agency in Leeds for ten years. He explains how the need for better support and maintenance systems led him to create Glow, a product that integrates these services into one platform.

The Importance of Support and Maintenance

Chris and Phil discuss how effective support and maintenance can enhance client retention. Phil emphasizes that many agencies overlook selling maintenance packages, which can lead to significant revenue loss.

Client and Agency Perspectives

Phil explores the challenges agencies face in selling maintenance services, noting that clients often lack technical knowledge. He uses a car maintenance metaphor to illustrate the necessity of ongoing website care.

Security Risks and the Need for Proactive Maintenance

The conversation shifts to the security risks associated with poorly maintained websites. Phil highlights the frequency of hacking attempts and the importance of having a reliable agency partner to mitigate these risks.

The Business Value of Active Website Management

Chris and Phil discuss how actively managed websites can drive business growth. They stress the importance of ongoing improvements and the role of agencies in helping clients maximize their website's potential.

The Role of Agencies in Client Relationships

Phil encourages business owners to engage with their agencies about website improvements. He emphasizes that proactive communication can lead to better website performance and client satisfaction.

Glow's Unique Selling Proposition

Phil explains Glow's features, including its ability to streamline support and maintenance processes for agencies. He highlights the platform's reporting capabilities, which help agencies demonstrate value to clients.

White Labeling and Customisation

Phil discusses Glow's white label options, allowing agencies to brand the platform as their own. This feature enhances client continuity and strengthens agency branding.

Future of Websites and AI Integration

The conversation turns to the future of websites, with Phil acknowledging the impact of AI on web development. He believes that while changes are coming, websites will remain essential for businesses in the near future.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Chris wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to explore Glow and its offerings. Phil invites listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn and visit the Glow website for more information.

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Find Phil on Social Media

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-storey/

Website: https://getglow.io/

Find Chris on Social Media

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjbarnard/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@feedbackfans

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@getfeedbackfans