What makes a business competitive? Is it their ability to create innovative solutions to consumer problems? An exceptional customer service experience that leaves them with nothing but glowing five-star reviews? The ability to remain operational in the face of extreme challenges?
While all these factors contribute to a business that stands out from the crowd, there’s another, less obvious aspect that’s becoming just as crucial: cyber security. In this blog, we’ll explore how leveraging Cyber Essentials can provide a significant competitive advantage for SMBs in Leicester.
Keeping Competitive: Differentiation Across the Nation
Fun fact: there are over 5.5 million SMBs operating across the UK, yet only around 120,000 Cyber Essentials certifications have been awarded since the scheme’s inception in 2014. In short, this means achieving certification is a surefire way to set your business apart from the competition.
For Leicester businesses, cyber security essentials go beyond just protecting data—they’re a statement that your business is forward-thinking, trustworthy, and dedicated to safeguarding its operations and customers. Let’s explore how leveraging Cyber Essentials can elevate your business in several key areas.
- Heightened IT Awareness and Proactive Problem Solving
Achieving Cyber Essentials certification requires a thorough understanding of your business’s IT infrastructure. This elevated awareness allows you to identify and address potential issues before they escalate into significant problems. For example, regular reviews and updates of your cyber defences mean that any vulnerabilities are promptly identified and remedied before cyber criminals get wind of them.
In a cutthroat market, businesses that can quickly adapt and respond to IT challenges are more likely to maintain smooth operations, avoiding the downtime and disruptions that can damage their reputation and bottom line. By keeping your systems running smoothly and securely, you’re ensuring that your business remains agile and resilient, a critical component of competitive advantage for SMBs.
- Reduced Risk of Disruptions from Cyber Attacks
Cyber attacks aren’t just a threat to data—they can bring your entire business to a halt. Whether it’s a ransomware attack that locks you out of your systems or a data breach that compromises sensitive information, the consequences can be devastating. Leveraging Cyber Essentials ensures that your business has robust cyber defences in place, significantly reducing your odds of becoming a victim of a successful attack.
With elevated cyber security, your business is also less likely to suffer from costly disruptions. And should new cyber threats emerge, your existing protective network will be well-equipped to integrate additional defences without causing delays or interruptions.
This level of preparedness not only protects your business but also reinforces your reputation as a reliable, secure partner—something that can be a deciding factor for clients and customers choosing between you and a competitor.
- Demonstrating Your Commitment to Data Protection
In today’s data-driven world, customers and stakeholders are increasingly concerned about how their information’s handled. A business that can prove its commitment to data protection is more than just talk is far more likely to earn and retain trust.
A Cyber Essentials certification, which needs to be renewed annually, is a clear indication that your business takes data protection seriously and is dedicated to maintaining high standards of cyber security.
A key aspect of competitiveness is building a brand that people can trust. When customers and partners see that your business has an up-to-date Cyber Essentials certificate, they know you’re taking proactive steps to safeguard their data. This can be a powerful differentiator, especially in sectors like healthcare and finance, where data security is paramount.
- Meeting Requirements for Government Contracts
For many businesses, especially those in the public sector or those looking to expand into government contracts, Cyber Essentials certification isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. The UK government has made it a requirement for certain contracts, particularly those involving sensitive data or the provision of IT services.
Securing government contracts can be a major growth driver for Leicester SMBs. These contracts often come with long-term stability and significant financial benefits. Without the certification, you could be missing out on these lucrative opportunities, giving your competitors a clear advantage.
Seize the Opportunity to Stand Out
In the competitive business landscape of Leicester, standing out requires a commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. But as cyber threats continue to grow, cyber security essentials for Leicester businesses are becoming just as important.
By leveraging Cyber Essentials, you’re not just protecting your business—you’re gaining a strategic advantage that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it’s gaining the trust of your clients, securing government contracts, or ensuring your operations run smoothly, Cyber Essentials is an investment in your business’s future.
Don’t let your competitors outpace you—make Cyber Essentials a cornerstone of your business strategy today.
Realtime ITS: Delivering IT Excellence to Leicester’s Businesses
Realtime IT Solutions was founded to help SMBs in Leicester realise their full potential by utilising ever-evolving technology.
Whether you need support on-site, over the cloud, or for hybrid infrastructures, the best solutions are those tailored to meet your specific goals and give you a competitive edge. We base our skills and knowledge on the latest technology practices used by large corporations, adjusting them to your unique business needs.
Thinking of pursuing a Cyber Essentials certification? Schedule a discovery call to talk to us about ensuring your cyber security meets the necessary criteria.
