In many ways, business security in the modern world has drastically changed from what it was decades ago. Businesses today have to worry about cybersecurity, data breaches, and connectivity concern. However, there are still some relevant methods to keeping inventory and professional secrets safe and sound from yesteryear. Here are five classic security measures that are just as useful today as they were years ago.
Physical Barriers
It’s a technique as old as time, but keeping a physical barrier between a would-be burglar and your business property is a surefire way to protect what matters most. Locks are a good start, but you can read more about special rolling security grilles and other equipment that will practically turn an ordinary building into a fortress. Often, just the sight of such equipment is enough of a deterrent to stop crime, but also strong enough to withstand the efforts of the ones who try.
Honest Employees
Hiring the right people has never been more important than it is today. With so much customer data, supplier information, and trade secrets shared online and off-site, the people who handle that sensitive information must be trustworthy. The best way to find honest employees is to start by being an honest boss. If you’re always operating on the up and up, you’ll attract employees who do the same. Whoever you hire should be truthful in the small things like reporting actual time worked and not using company supplies for personal reasons.
Smart Bookkeeping
Especially for small businesses, careful bookkeeping can be a burden. However, it’s vital to watch the balance sheet to notice any discrepancies right away and figure out the problem. While it not only will help to maximize profitability and trim waste, you’ll also quickly find if anyone you employ is skimming from the top, overcharging customers, or not depositing customer payments into the business account. There are professionals who can help, but you’ll still have to keep an eye on things yourself.
Professional Relationships
When people only dealt with their immediate neighbors, it was a given that customers and business owners would know each other well. Nowadays, clients may be in far-flung corners of the globe, but it’s still just as important to forge strong professional relationships with your clients. You want them to know you and how you do business so they feel comfortable alerting you to any problems when they interact with your other employees. It’s also smart to get to know other business owners in your local geographical area. You’ll be alerted to any break-ins or other incidents you should know about before they happen to your business.
Adequate Insurance
Protecting your business is not just about preventing problems, but also about what to do when issues arise. The modern insurance structure has been around for decades, but the principles are just as relevant and helpful today as ever. Make sure you’re adequately insured against natural disasters as well as crime and employee dishonesty.
Protecting your business in the modern world does come with additional challenges. However, some tried and true techniques that are as relevant today as ever.