The first and easiest way hackers gain access to a company’s sensitive information is through their employees. That’s why the best way to ensure your company doesn’t become a hacking or ransomware statistic is to train your employees on how to spot and prevent intruders from gaining access to their information. While some companies find it difficult to get employee buy-in for new security procedures, doing so is critical to the safety of their internal networks. Let’s dig deeper into how you can ensure your workforce is ready.
1. Clearly Explain Important Policies
For each new security measure you want to implement, make sure you explain to your employees why these measures are important. Be clear and concise and outline how adhering to these new policies directly benefits them. It will benefit you, in the long run, to put the time and effort into explaining why you are asking them to follow a new security policy or procedure.
2. Be a Leader
People look to the top for inspiration. As such, you’ve got to lead by example. Demonstrate to your people that you will be the first to comply with any new security procedures you put in place. If you ask your employees to do something out of the ordinary or uncomfortable, you need to make sure they can see you doing so first. You’ve got to walk the talk to get them to walk with you!
3. Actively Help Your Employees
It’s incredibly important you stay engaged. After all, not everyone knows their way around complex IT systems. And some of the new security procedures you implement may be unfamiliar even to your most experienced IT staff. Make sure you provide active help and guidance, quickly answer questions and provide clear explanations for why you are asking them to comply.
4. Lay Out the Consequences
One of the most compelling ways to get someone to comply with a new security procedure is to explain what will happen if they don’t. If your IT network is not secure, you run the risk of being targeted by hackers. What if your employees’ personal information gets stolen? The last thing they want is to find their social security number and employment information floating around the dark web. Putting your request in terms of cold, hard consequences very often results in immediate buy-in.
Or, you could always rely on your friends at CHIPS to help you in this endeavor. We specialize in helping companies set up nearly impenetrable network security measures and provide guidance on ensuring employee buy-in. We’re right here when you need us. (651) 280-4701
