Image by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay
By Henry Brown
Having put so much effort, time, and money into your business, the last thing you want is to lose it all because of poor security. Our businesses are under threat all the time, from cybercrime and other online threats, robberies, and disasters such as floods and fires. Some of these threats, we can do nothing to stop. Natural disasters come; we can’t stop them, but we can take steps to protect our business premises and possessions, just like we do our homes and families.
Other threats, we can take steps to prevent entirely. By putting measures in place, following a thorough risk assessment, we can minimize them, protect our business, and keep it, our customers and our staff safe.
Outsource IT support
IT is so much more important, and so also more complicated than it has ever been before. We do business online, we keep customer data online, we communicate online, and we pay for things online. Your business may only exist in an online form.
With so much information stored online, it’s no wonder that cybercriminals are rife. They are becoming more sophisticated everyday and it is hard for small businesses to keep up, or even to understand the measures that they should be taking. Hire IT Support to take the pressure away while ensuring your business has round the clock support.
Effective training
Human error is the cause of most security issues, whether on or offline. People make mistakes with passwords and cyber safety. They leave doors unlocked, or they forget to set alarms. Staff members using technology and machinery incorrectly can also cause harm.
Training your staff effectively, and refreshing their knowledge with regular training sessions or appraisals can increase the security of your business massively.
Prioritize safety
Safety takes time, and sometimes money, and unfortunately, we often cut corners to make savings. However, this is usually a mistake, and can even end up more costly. You should always prioritize safety, whatever else is going on.
Install on-site security
Cybercrime is terrifying, but it hasn’t replaced more traditional crimes, such as breaking and entering and theft. Install on-site security, such as keyless entry systems, intercom systems for office entrances, CCTV, motion sensors, and alarms to keep your property safe.
Get to know your customers
Your customers can offer a great form of defense. Get to know them, maintain excellent customer service, and build trusting relationships. They’ll be the first people to tip you off if they spot any weaknesses in your security, potential threats, and dangers.
Update your insurance
No matter how hard we try to stay safe, things happen. Add extra protection by keeping your insurance up to date and checking your policy regularly.
Whether you run a small business, you work alone at home, or you employ staff, even if you have more than one business outlet, it’s crucial that you make safety a priority. Failing to do so doesn’t just mean that you could lose everything. It also puts the people that spend time in your business at risk. So, if it’s something that you haven’t given much thought, start with a risk assessment today.
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Henry Brown is an online marketing executive. When he isn’t talking shop, he’s roaming the streets of London, uncovering the extra-ordinary in the ordinary.
