Technology shapes how modern companies operate. Although the latest advances have helped businesses scale and thrive, too many business owners overlook the importance of security in the workplace. Unfortunately, data breaches have become commonplace across all industries. That's why it's crucial to create a culture of security from day one.
Whether a company is big or small, data security is crucial. Putting the necessary tools in place is a must, whether hiring a dedicated IT team or utilizing SOC 2 Services. Here's how to get every employee in your workforce on the same page when it comes to security:
1. Start Early
Launching a new business is a huge and exciting endeavor. While most entrepreneurs think about creating the right product and finding an audience, they tend to overlook business security. However, putting the right processes in place now will prepare the startup for growth and success. These processes may include compliance auditing, vendor security, encryption, and employee access. Getting everyone on board with these practices from the start will help cultivate workplace security for the future.
2. Codify Everything
Codifying security takes a backseat on their priority list, but it should be at the top. Instead, a startup might focus on everyday tasks like timely order processing and shipping. However, codifying as much as possible is highly beneficial. It offers real-time compliance and security monitoring. Codifying also reinforces security practices across all teams, creating a sense of unity.
3. Involve Employees
Security encompasses more than technology procedures. It should also include every member of the team. Put systems in place for employees to follow from the moment they get hired. Start by creating compliance with the leadership team and work down the employee ladder. Human resources can help by designing onboarding experiences that emphasize security tools and habits. Involving employees will help ensure security compliance and ownership from everyone.
4. Centralize Security
One mistake many small businesses make is leaving security practices up to each team. This practice looks like it will work on paper, but in reality, it causes even more headaches. Instead of working as a single unit, individual teams end up feeling isolated. Even worse, some critical security processes might fall through the cracks. Building uniform, consistent security measures produces global optimization. That makes tracking changes and implementing new practices easier. Centralized security ensures faster tech adoption, more organized audits, and company-wide compliance.
5. Use the Right Tools
A culture of security involves more than just the employees. Companies should also utilize the many helpful tools available. For example, system and organization controls (SOC) ensure security compliance. SOC 2 should be a minimum requirement for all businesses. It identifies the five criteria for managing customer data: security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy. Getting SOC 2 certification from an outside auditor is one of the best ways to make security a core business practice.
Change Is Good
All too often, businesses get stuck in a rut. They put all their eggs in one basket, focusing on product growth instead of other vital processes. In addition, security becomes secondary. However, without a culture of security, a company will fail to scale and meet its full potential.
A mindset change is needed when it comes to security. Instead of waiting for issues to arise, it's a better practice to involve every team member from the start. Having consistent security measures in place will increase customer loyalty, boost employee morale, and help your business become an industry leader.