The struggle to stay afloat is a never-ending one for small business owners. The to-do lists seem endless when you manage everything with a small team. Money is an even more daunting concern because it never seems enough. You may end up cutting corners on both fronts, and some aspects of operations tend to suffer. Security is one of them, as most small organizations take it for granted. It is easy to believe that you are not a viable target, but the same mindset makes you more vulnerable. You must take relevant measures to safeguard your assets, stock, employees, and data. The good thing is that you can do it on a budget. Here are some practical tips for small businesses to boost security without breaking the bank.
Manage and control access to valuables
The best way to protect your valuable data, stock, cash, and equipment is by ensuring proper access management and control. You cannot allow everyone on the team to reach sensitive information, cash, and expensive equipment. Let only a few trusted employees access them. Installing an access control system for core areas takes you the extra mile with security. Keep track of keys and change the locks if you lose the keys.
Upgrade locks, doors, and windows
Upgrading locks enables you to ramp up premises security without burning a hole in your budget. Opt for commercial-grade locks even if they cost more than regular ones because they offer better protection. Reinforced steel or wood doors are ideal as they safeguard your space against an attempted break-in. Likewise, you can add security bars on the windows for an extra layer of protection.
Invest in perimeter security
Small organizations often focus on what is inside and end up overlooking the perimeter of the building. Although you may not have the budget to hire security guards, you can invest in technology solutions to cover the front. Automated gate systems, video surveillance, burglar alarms, and license plate recognition offer reliable perimeter security for small businesses running low on the budget. You can start with the basics and add more features down the line.
Pay attention to cybersecurity
Every business owns digital assets such as employee records and customer data, and small ones are no exception. Protecting these assets is your responsibility, as losing them can cause compliance issues and loss of credibility. You must include cybersecurity in your security plan, no matter how small the volume of data you own. Secure your Wi-Fi networks, run upgraded software, enforce role-based access to confidential files, and educate your team on best practices to prevent cyber risks.
Vet your employees
Vetting your employees is another critical aspect of protecting your business from security threats. You cannot undermine the risk of employee theft and fraud, regardless of the size of your team. Perform stringent background checks on every person you bring on board. Also, do not trust people too much with your assets and data, and keep an eye on their activity.
Securing your small business gives you peace of mind and lets you focus on growth-critical aspects. Following these measures can help you stay a step ahead of attacks and thefts without spending a fortune.