A Cyber Essentials certification can improve your chances of winning new business and contracts by instilling confidence in potential customers and partners by demonstrating your commitment to cyber security.
What is a Cyber Essentials certification?
A Cyber Essentials certification is a government-backed scheme that examines the security of an organisation’s IT infrastructure. This evaluation aims to verify the successful implementation and effectiveness of essential policies and procedures, including data protection measures and defence against cyber threats.
So, how can a Cyber Essentials certification win you more business?
Cyber security is a top concern for businesses, as a data breach or cyber-attack can have severe consequences. By holding this certification, you offer customers reassurance that you have implemented essential security measures, reducing the risk of potential incidents.
- Enhance your reputation and trust: The Cyber Essentials certification showcases your dedication to safeguarding sensitive information and protecting against cyber threats. It demonstrates that you have implemented essential security controls, which can significantly boost your reputation and inspire trust among potential new customers and partners. They will be more likely to choose your organisation over competitors who do not possess this certification.
- Provide you with a competitive advantage: In many sectors, in particular government agencies and public sector organisations, certain cyber security standards are required to be considered for contracts or tenders. Having a Cyber Essentials certification gives you a competitive edge over non-certified competitors, making you a more attractive option for customers seeking reliable and secure partners. In effect, it sets you apart as a trustworthy and responsible business.
- Ensure compliance and regulatory requirements: Depending on your industry, you may be subject to specific regulations regarding cyber security. Cyber Essentials certification demonstrates that you have taken steps to comply with these requirements, providing assurance to clients that you prioritise legal and regulatory compliance.
- Provide you with cost savings: Some insurance providers offer reduced premiums for organisations that have Cyber Essentials. By demonstrating that you have implemented security measures to mitigate cyber risks, you present a lower risk profile to insurers.
Cyber Essentials can improve your business growth however, it can be a complex certification to prepare for. If you lack the expertise or resources to implement security controls on your own, you may want to consider engaging an experienced IT professional to assist you in the preparation process.
At CT, we offer a Cyber Security Review which outlines all the requirements for Cyber Essentials so we can work in partnership to ensure you have the necessary data compliance and security standards to gain the certification.
To find out more about how we can support you through the Cyber Essentials certification visit our Cyber Security Review page.