Tag: #training

What is Customer Service? A Complete Guide

Customer service is the information and support supplied by a company to its consumers before, during, and after a purchase or use of a product or service. Customer service, one of the elements that says something about the customer experience, and suddenly, when we talk about satisfaction, loyalty, and corporate reputation.

Why is customer service important?

Customer service affects a business from the inside out, not to mention long-term success. Here’s why it’s important:

  • Drives customer loyalty: A positive experience makes customers more likely to return.
  • Enhances brand image: Consistently good service builds a trustworthy and professional brand.
  • Increases customer lifetime value: Happy customers tend to spend more over time.
  • Boosts word-of-mouth marketing: Satisfied customers recommend brands to friends and family.
  • Reduces customer churn: Exceptional service can retain customers even after product issues.

Best practices to provide excellent customer service

1. Personalized customer interactions

Customizing your contact with individual customers puts a personal touch. Greet them with their name, remember their past buys, and recommend solutions according to their needs.

  • Use CRM tools: Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools make it easier to track the history of purchases and interactions, allowing for more personalized service.

 

  • Segment your customers: Segment similar customers for specific campaigns and services.
  • Be proactive: Don’t wait for customers to find you. Call out with personalized offers, reminders, or useful content.
  • Leverage social media: Interact with your audience on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). Answer promptly, thank complimenting commenters, and assist when problems occur.

Listening to the voice of the customer during interactions can uncover hidden needs and drive stronger engagement.

2. Empower your employees

Empowered workers are more assured and can deal with problems more effectively.

  • Grant decision-making authority: Let employees resolve returns, opt-ins, or payments without the need for management approval.
  • Provide continuous training: Regular Employee Workshops & Seminars on Product Knowledge, Interpersonal and Conflict Resolution are crucial.
  • Recognize top performers: Reward and recognize excellent performance.
  • Foster ownership: Equip employees with the right tools, like customer experience management software, to take initiative and responsibility.

3. Consistent communication

Open and prompt communication creates trust and minimizes frustration.

  • Use omnichannel support: Be present on phone, email, chat, and social media.
  • Keep customers informed: Periodic updates on order status, policy updates, or service downtime are a must.
  • Implement feedback loops: Ask for feedback in the form of surveys and follow-up emails, and demonstrate that their voice is being heard by acting upon it.
  • Develop loyalty programs: Treat repeat customers with special offers, benefits, or precedence when a new product or service is launched.

4. Proactive problem solving

Solving problems before they occur shows customers that you care about their time and convenience.

  • Anticipate common issues: Identify and address recurring pain points.
  • Use predictive analytics: Analyze customer behavior to forecast future needs.
  • Implement a service recovery plan: Train teams to act quickly and professionally when things go wrong.
  • Monitor sentiment: Use tools to track customer sentiment and flag potential dissatisfaction.

5. Quality assurance

Quality control ensures customers consistently receive the level of service and product standards they expect.

  • Regular service audits: Review customer interactions for compliance and improvement.
  • Set clear service standards: Outline measurable performance expectations in a customer service charter.
  • Gather satisfaction feedback: Conduct routine surveys to uncover insights into quality perceptions.
  • Act on data: Use collected data to make informed decisions about improvements.

6. Streamlined processes

Simplicity and efficiency enhance customer satisfaction.

  • Minimize friction: Remove unnecessary steps in customer journeys, from shopping to support.
  • Offer self-service options: Online FAQs, help centers, and how-to videos empower customers.
  • Automate where appropriate: Tools like chatbots and auto-responses can handle routine queries.
  • Continuously optimize: Collect data on customer journeys to identify bottlenecks and improve flow.

Essential customer service metrics to track

Tracking performance metrics helps evaluate your customer service strategy and identify improvement areas.

1. Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT)

  • What it is: Measures how satisfied customers are with a specific interaction.
  • How it works: Usually, a post-interaction survey asks, “How satisfied were you with your experience?” on a scale of 1–5 or 1–10.
  • Why it matters: It gives immediate feedback to help improve specific customer touchpoints.

2. Net Promoter Score® (NPS)

  • What it is: Measures customer loyalty and the likelihood of referrals.
  • How it works: Asks customers how likely they are to recommend the company on a scale of 0–10.
    • Promoters (9–10): Loyal, enthusiastic customers.
    • Passives (7–8): Satisfied but unenthusiastic.
    • Detractors (0–6): Unhappy customers are likely to damage your brand.
  • Why it matters: A high NPS indicates a loyal customer base likely to promote your business.

3. First Response Time (FRT)

  • What it is: The time between a customer reaching out and receiving the first reply.
  • Why it matters: Faster response times improve customer satisfaction and show attentiveness.

4. Resolution time

  • What It Is: The average time taken to fully resolve a customer issue.
  • Why It Matters: Shorter resolution times indicate efficient service and reduce customer frustration.

5. First Contact Resolution (FCR)

  • What it is: The percentage of issues resolved in the first interaction.
  • Why it matters: High FCR rates show that your team is effective and reduces the need for follow-ups.

6. Customer churn rate

  • What it is: The percentage of customers who stop doing business with you over a period.
  • Why it matters: High churn indicates service or product dissatisfaction and may point to a need for improvements.

Final thoughts

Customer service is not a customer-facing support function anymore – it is a catalyst in growth & togetherness that predetermines brand-line differentiators in a competitive market space.

Personalize the experience, enable employees, communicate consistently & proactively solve problems — businesses can make the world better in terms of service delivery.

Systems of the mind: With performance results in CSAT/NPS & resolution times, you start seeing what works and what does not work. Customer service is more than just the cost of fixing things;  it is having a great experience that motivates your client to return.

While businesses that possess the know-how and execute these best practices have a better chance of achieving long-term success with a strong relationship with the customers, along with an outstanding reputation.

EHS International Announces Exclusive Partnership to Deliver FLAIM VR Fire Training

EHS International, a leading Irish provider of environmental, health, and safety (EHS) solutions, has announced an exclusive partnership with Australian-based technology company FLAIM Systems. Through the partnership, EHS International will deliver FLAIM’s world-leading virtual reality (VR) fire training simulators exclusively across the island of Ireland, as well as to its global client base.

The partnership will introduce a suite of VR training programmes — including fire extinguisher simulators, work instruction simulators and advanced industrial fire crew and defence industry simulators. Using 4D technology, FLAIM provides interactive, multisensory, highly realistic scenarios, with well over 60 lifelike training situations enhanced by heat and resistance software.

In addition to the core simulators, EHS International will offer the FLAIM product called Trainer. This is a leading-edge VR platform for advanced firefighter training. It enables realistic simulations of fire emergencies using over 70 immersive emergency fire situations. Trainer replicates key elements of live-fire response, including heat, hose pressure, and full interaction with real firefighting equipment such as hose reels, nozzles, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and PPE. Unlike traditional drills, it offers lifelike training without the risks, environmental impact, or resource use. Each session is estimated to save hundreds of litres of water, 20–50 litres of hazardous foam, and over 20 kg of CO₂ — roughly equal to discharging four large CO₂ fire extinguishers.

Chris Mee, Founder and CEO of EHS International, stated: “Our partnership with FLAIM Systems is a game-changer for fire safety training in Ireland. From basic extinguisher use to advanced emergency response, trainees can now experience real-life fire scenarios — safely, sustainably, and without the risks of live-fire drills.

“With immersive simulations, in-the-moment feedback, and real firefighting gear, FLAIM delivers unmatched realism. You wouldn’t let an airline pilot fly a plane without simulator training — the same should apply to fire and other safety training. Simulators are here to stay”

This new technology allows organisations to measure and track individual trainee competence, supporting compliance with Irish and EU safety legislation. All simulator training is led by EHS International’s expert trainers, ensuring correct and effective use across multiple sectors, including chemical, pharmaceutical and food.

FLAIM Systems’ Managing Director, Simon Miller, added: “FLAIM’s purpose is to deliver training technologies that prepare people to respond to hazards and emergencies, safely and confidently, for real-world challenges, and this partnership with EHS International reflects that mission perfectly.  As emergency services face growing complexity, we’re committed to evolving our technology to meet their needs, delivering safe, immersive, and high-impact training experiences.  Just as important is how we work: we listen and collaborate with our partners and customers to innovate purposeful training solutions that deliver a safer ready-to-respond workforce”

Headquartered in Cork, with offices in Dublin, Belfast, and London, EHS International was founded by Chris Mee in 2023 to deliver technology-enabled EHS services across consultancy, training, fire safety, and occupational health. The FLAIM collaboration expands its growing portfolio of innovation-led partnerships in the EHS sector.

The VR training programme is projected to deliver over €1 million worth of fire safety training over the next two years, supporting firefighters, emergency responders, and safety teams — from everyday workplaces to high-risk industrial environments.

For more information or to schedule a training session, visit ehsinternational.com.

How Can AI Help Players Improve Their Gaming Skills?

Digital games have reached their most competitive level to date. Gamers aspire to enhance their skills through ranked increments to secure more victory outcomes. Development requires both time and committed work to complete.

By using AI technology, players can submit their gameplay logs for analysis, which produces performance feedback that enhances their ability to develop skills efficiently. AI technology delivers significant advantages to both casual gamers and esports competitors.

AI-Powered Coaching

Through its functioning, AI behaves as an individual coaching mentor. The system observes your gameplay activities to provide advice. The system detects errors while offering alternative approaches for improvement.

Multiple AI-based coaching platforms present game information in straightforward analytical insights. Programming enables quick learning, which directly leads to swift implementation of changes.

Real-Time Performance Analysis

Artificial intelligence provides real-time monitoring of all actions. This analytical system monitors accuracy together with reaction speed and makes assessments about decision-making capabilities. AI uses the collected data to identify weak areas. The tools deliver analysis that showcases pro player metrics by identifying areas where you require improvement.

Personalized Training Plans

Each player requires different levels of training. AI tailors practice activities specifically for individual players based upon their current abilities. Training sessions that focus on aiming should be recommended when you struggle with accurate shots according to the system.

The program delivers tactical lessons to students who need help with strategy. The AI adjusts practice sessions in ways that lead players toward smarter ways of learning rather than longer hours of practice.

Smarter Matchmaking and Game Sense

Multiple game developers employ artificial intelligence systems to pair users with opponents who match their skill level. The system matches players who have comparable abilities, thus creating balanced gameplay. Through pattern analysis, AI identifies future moves made by opponents. The system enables players to build stronger strategic intuition as well as guess what enemies may do next.

Using AI-powered training tools represents a solid choice for anyone who wants to improve their gaming abilities. Users can sign up today on leading platforms that offer AI training tools to enhance their gameplay. AI-generated insights will speed up your progression while boosting your game decisions in real-time situations.

AI for Aim and Reflex Improvement

AI can help sharpen aiming skills. Advanced aim trainers use AI to adjust difficulty based on performance. Reaction time tests powered by AI help players get faster. These tools push players to improve without feeling overwhelmed.

AI in Strategy and Decision-Making

Through the use of AI technology, players can enhance their ability to aim. Training systems with advanced AI functionality modify their difficulty settings according to users’ success rates. Artificial Intelligence runs reaction time tests, which help players reduce their response times. These performance-enhancing tools help players improve through an optimized learning experience.

AI for In-Game Communication Improvement

Through voice chat analysis AI provides players with better callout recommendations that enhance their communication capabilities. Using AI enables effective teamwork through its ability to detect hazy messages, which reduce communication errors while improving online coordination among fellow players.

AI for Mental Training

Video gameplay extends beyond technical aspects. Games demand good focus together with mental durability. AI-based apps provide concentration exercises together with stress management tips for users. The training system enables competitors to manage their emotions during high-pressure situations, thus improving their performance levels.

AI provides players with access to coaching services alongside real-time feedback and customized training plans as well as mental support resources. Artificial Intelligence serves as an asset that enables players to achieve quicker development through enhanced training methods. The advancement of gaming presents real benefits to individuals who utilize AI technology.

Coimisiún na Meán awards over half a million euro for Media Sector training initiatives

Coimisiún na Meán has today (06.03.2025) awarded €550,000 to deliver training and development initiatives for the Media Sector in Ireland.

Coimisiún na Meán’s Sectoral Learning and Development Programme assists organisations to undertake training, learning and development activities that support the broadcasting and audiovisual industries, and helps realise An Coimisiún’s aim of ensuring a thriving, diverse, safe, creative and trusted media landscape.

Coimisiún na Meán’s Media Development Commissioner Rónán Ó Domhnaill said: “Coimisiún na Meán is committed to ensuring a media landscape that is sustainable, pluralistic and participative, and that reflects and shapes who we are as a society. The Sectoral Learning and Development Programme underpins our work as it delivers training and development opportunities to those working in the media. By funding these initiatives, we can continue to support sector sustainability and capacity, and the ability of media workers to create content that reflects diverse voices and viewpoints in contemporary Ireland.”

During this round of funding, Coimisiún na Meán received 38 applications seeking a total of €1.2 million. The successful 29 applicants include organisations representing commercial and community media; industry specific groups such as producers, animators, and journalists; and advocacy organisations for gender, equality and inclusion, and promotion of the Irish language. The provision of funding to these organisations enables them to undertake of range of training and development activities, for example workshops, masterclasses, training programmes, seminars, and networking events.

Among the successful applicants awarded funding for 2025 are:

  • Craol – funding to support skills qualifications for trainers, workshops on mobile journalism and media production, the annual community radio féile, and other operational activities.
  • Ecoscope Limited – funding to support a sustainability demonstration day for electrical departments in film productions.
  • Storyhouse – funding to support a script and screen writing programme, and a panel discussion on Irish language film-making as part of the 2025 Storyhouse festival.
  • GORM Media – funding to run a training course for early- to mid-career media makers from under-represented, and to deliver bite-sized workshops for local communities.
  • Mediastrong – funding for a pilot initiative to equip newsroom staff with essential skills to recognise and manage trauma effectively.
  • Women in Film and Television – funding to support representation at Berlinale: Power to transform – Global Forum for Women; the Canne Film Festival; and the Greater Later Summit
  • Oireachtas na Gaeilge – funding for Gradaim Chumarsáide an Oireachtais, and other Irish language development work.
  • Learning Waves Journalism Graduate Programme – funding for internships in commercial radio stations for journalism graduates

A list of successful Sectoral Learning and Development funding recipients for 2025 can be found on their website.

Coimisiún na Meán supports the development of a thriving media sector in Ireland through funding schemes including the Sectoral Learning and Development Programme, Sponsorship Scheme, Sound & Vision Scheme, and through its Journalism Schemes, covering Local Democracy and Courts Reporting.

In 2024, Coimisiún na Meán published the first Gender, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (GEDI) Strategy for Ireland’s audio and audiovisual media sector, to enhance the diversity of the media sector in Ireland.

How On-the-Job Training Can Boost Employee Performance

On-the-job training has always been considered a burden by employers, as they expect the employees to understand and work as per their demands from day one. But yes!! It’s just a fantasy.

You have to train your employees as per your company’s demands and requirements, yet make sure your training does not effectively improve their skills and working capabilities.

So, here are the 5 benefits you will achieve from on-the-job training, and you will observe a boost in employee confidence; let’s dig in.

On-the-job Training: An Overview? 

On-the-job training means training the employees about the role for which they are hired. This training continues while the employee is working and earning a salary. 

This training lasts from days to weeks, depending upon the employee’s learning ability, once the trainer observes that the employee is ready to take critical responsibility, this training stops. 

OJT comes with many benefits, including:

  • Faster onboarding of the employee.
  • Higher productivity of the new employee 
  • Job satisfaction.

This training program is cost-effective and productive for companies because they get their jobs done by well-trained workers.

Benefits of on-the-job training 

OJ training offers numerous benefits, as we have mentioned earlier, but here are more of them. Let’s dig in:

Better Training with Real-life Experience 

The best part of OJT is that you get hands-on experience. You will learn corporate tools and will also have the opportunity to use them hand in hand. 

Faster critical skill learning is important because the employee has the opportunity to observe others doing the same job.

Better learning is essential as you will get practical experiences. 

Enhanced Productivity 

When the newcomer gets a chance to work with the trained workers, they learn faster and better and get practical learning experience.

Employee Retention Increases 

When newcomers come to a new setup, it usually becomes overwhelming and difficult to cope with the fast-paced system. But OJT here has the magic; it boosts the newcomer’s confidence as they work in practical situations, making them sure there roles and responsibilities. This helps the company retain new and talented employees.

Teamwork is Appreciated  

As the new incoming person works with the already present team, they build stronger bonds and learn teamwork. This technique helps meet deadlines and improve productivity. The employees feel supported and know where to seek help.

Quick On-boarding 

As the workers are exposed to practical working environments immediately, they learn well and quickly, which helps the HR speed up the onboarding process. 

These and many other benefits make OJT the best model to train the employee and it’s beneficial for both companies and the newcomers.

Implementing On – the – Job Training 

These few steps should be followed to maximize the OJT:

  • Choose best trainers
  • Build a training plan
  • Resources should be provided 
  • As for feeding 

Companies that adopt new training trends like OJT will have the benefits of on-the-job training, which means they are working and performing better in the corporate world because their employees have a clear idea about their roles, responsibilities, and working trends.

 

Strengthening Your Business with Email Security Training

As cyber threats continue to rise, data breaches have become a severe concern for businesses worldwide. Employee awareness often remains an underestimated factor in email security. Structured training programs are crucial in fostering resilience against phishing, malware and other malicious tactics.

Every hour, thousands of employees unknowingly open the door to cyber criminals through a simple click in their inbox. While organizations invest millions in security infrastructure, the human element remains their most vulnerable asset. A single compromised email can cascade into devastating financial losses, shattered client trust and years of legal battles. This article examines how comprehensive email security training transforms employees from security liabilities into an organization’s strongest defense against evolving cyber threats.

The modern threat landscape

The shift toward increasingly sophisticated hacking attempts has put corporate inboxes at the forefront of cyber threats. Cybercriminals employ various tactics, such as phishing, ransomware and social engineering, to breach security defenses. These attacks are not only more frequent but also more cunning, often tailored to deceive even the most cautious employees.

Forward-thinking companies recognize that implementing robust email security training for employees serves as their frontline defense against cyber threats, while strengthening their overall security framework. The modern threat landscape demands continuous adaptation and proactive measures to safeguard sensitive information. Businesses must remain alert to emerging threats and ensure their workforce is equipped with the knowledge to identify and respond effectively.

Recent statistics show that over 90% of cyberattacks begin with a phishing email, making email security a critical concern for organizations of all sizes. Attackers are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning to create more convincing impersonation attempts and automated attack campaigns. This technological arms race requires businesses to constantly evolve their defense strategies and ensure their employees remain vigilant against increasingly sophisticated threats.

Why email security training for employees is essential

Practical email security training for employees is crucial in minimizing vulnerabilities within an organization. Human error often leads to costly breaches, highlighting the need for comprehensive education at all organizational levels. Employees trained to recognize potential threats contribute to a security-first mindset that permeates throughout the company.

Training programs instill confidence in employees, enabling them to detect suspicious emails and take appropriate action. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of successful cyberattacks and minimizes potential damage. Furthermore, fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness encourages open communication about threats and best practices.

Building an effective training program

Creating an impactful email security training program involves several critical steps. Initially, businesses should assess their current preparedness levels and establish clear policies around email security practices. This includes setting guidelines for password hygiene, implementing multi-factor authentication and advising on handling suspicious messages.

Engaging training materials are essential for capturing employee interest and ensuring knowledge retention. Interactive modules, scenario-based learning and regular refresher courses prove highly effective in maintaining engagement. Role-playing exercises and simulations help recreate real cyberattack situations, providing valuable hands-on experience for participants.

Continuous evaluation and updates are vital components of any training program. Regular testing allows organizations to identify areas requiring improvement while incorporating industry data ensures relevancy. Feedback loops enable trainers to tailor content according to participants’ needs, resulting in a dynamic and responsive learning environment.

Technology and human synergy

The synergy between technology and human vigilance forms a formidable defense against cyber threats. AI-driven filters and real-time threat detection systems complement human efforts by identifying potential risks swiftly. However, technology alone is insufficient without employees who can recognize unusual activity and report it promptly.

A successful cybersecurity strategy integrates robust software solutions with well-informed staff members who understand their role in protecting company data. This blend of technology and human insight provides comprehensive protection against email-based attacks.

The critical role of employee-focused cybersecurity measures in safeguarding your organization’s data cannot be overstated. Proactive training supported by advanced technology minimizes email-based threats effectively. Prioritizing continuous learning ensures your business stays ahead of evolving attacks.

ADAPT Collaboration with Hayes Culleton to Revolutionise Collaborative Learning with AI Tools

ADAPT and Hayes Culleton recently completed a collaboration aimed at developing innovative AI-driven tools that enhance learning and collaboration. The project, led by Dr Liting Zhou from ADAPT at Dublin City University (DCU), focused on designing solutions for educational and training environments, with a global, all-female team of experts from four countries at the helm.

Hayes Culleton, led by founder and financial expert Susan Hayes Culleton, specialises in high-impact education, finance training, and innovative learning technologies. Through its proprietary platform, Active Peers AI, Hayes Culleton empowers teams and individuals to engage effectively in peer-driven learning, a key component of the new tools created in partnership with ADAPT.

Dr Liting Zhou commented: “This collaboration with Hayes Culleton has been an exciting opportunity to apply ADAPT’s AI expertise in real-world educational settings. By developing tools tailored for collaborative learning, we are breaking new ground in how teams and students can connect and engage meaningfully in both virtual and in-person environments.”

This partnership forms part of ADAPT’s broader mission to lead impactful change in educational technology, offering powerful tools that can transform learning experiences across diverse settings.

Google to provide 500 Scholarships to local community to increase AI skills

Minister Eamon Ryan TD will today officially unveil a new community led Digital Training Academy for the Docklands area to support ongoing digital skills training for the community with a particular focus on promoting AI skills. 

The new academy has been  funded by a Google.org grant and  has been developed by This City Works, a partnership between Dublin city-based community employment services and Google Ireland, helping job seekers in Dublin find the right employment opportunities. As part of the Digital Academy, Google will also provide funding to support 500 AI Essentials Certificates for the community.  

The AI Essentials Certificate is an online self-paced course designed to help people across roles and industries learn AI skills to boost their productivity. The Digital Academy will also offer people the opportunity to achieve QQI level awards across various disciplines. As the first community-based centre of its kind, the Digital Training Academy represents a significant step in delivering certified training programmes to the local community. 

Speaking about the launch Minister Eamon Ryan TD said:

“The launch of this Digital Training Academy will give people the essential digital and AI skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving society and work environment. Together Google.org and This City Works are opening doors for people to gain practical knowledge that can boost their confidence, their skills as well as their career and employment prospects. It’s an academy for today that equips people for their futures and reflects the ongoing commitment of This City Works to the docklands and to supporting jobseekers and employers operating in an increasingly digital world.”

Ryan Meade, Public Policy Lead at Google Ireland, said:

 

“Since 2022, This City Works has helped over 4,000 people access skills development and employment opportunities. Google Ireland is proud to support these important initiatives and the Digital Academy will be a powerful resource for ongoing skills training in the community. AI has the potential to address society’s biggest challenges, and Google is committed to ensuring people from all backgrounds have access to the skills needed to navigate and harness this technology responsibly. By working together, we’re preparing our community to thrive in the digital age and ensuring AI training is accessible to everyone.”

Joe Donnelly, This City Works, said:

“At This City Works, we believe in the transformative power of education and community collaboration. The launch of the Digital Training Academy and the provision of 500 AI Essentials Certificates represent a significant step towards empowering local residents. By offering essential skills training and support, we aim to create sustainable employment opportunities for those who need it most. Together with our partners, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone has the chance to succeed and thrive in today’s digital economy.”

To find out more about the Digital Academy, contact info@fairplaycafe.ie 

Data Breach Prevention Tips For Your Business

A data breach can significantly damage a business. It can result in the loss of proprietary information, damage to the company’s reputation, and costly remediation. The average data breach costs a business millions of dollars, but the impact extends beyond finances. How can a business prevent these attacks?

Data and Sensitive Information

To protect its data, a company must know where this data is located and what it contains. All data sets must be inventoried, and all locations must be determined. In addition, the company needs to regularly update its inventory and locations to ensure it is always aware of where data is. Furthermore, businesses that need a cloud fax provider or another third-party service must ensure the service selected conducts this inventory and knows the location of its sensitive client information.

Limit Access 

Business owners must limit access to sensitive data. Only those employees and contractors who must view this information should be granted access. Sadly, many business owners offer privileged access to those who don’t truly need it and put their data at unnecessary risk when doing so. By establishing and enforcing policies regarding privileged access, the business owner can reduce the risk of a data breach. They must ensure regular oversight of this data and use access management tools to facilitate and enforce the policies. 

Infrastructure Patches

IT security teams must monitor their networks and systems. When a security patch is offered, it needs to be used immediately. Zero-day exploits remain a problem today, so IT security teams must be aware of this and immediately take action when a manufacturer issues a software patch. Doing so will reduce the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Network Perimeter

Network perimeter security serves as the first line of defense against unauthorized access. Many companies use firewalls, and they may also benefit from intrusion prevention and detection systems. Access control lists are popular among business owners, and they often turn to other tools to ensure business data can flow internally while identifying and stopping outside threats.

Endpoint Security Controls

Every business needs endpoint security controls in place. For example, malware detection software is essential today. As the distribution of users and workloads expands, traditional perimeter security tools become less useful. Endpoint security, when properly implemented and managed, offers the highest level of security against internet-based threats.

Lateral Movement

When a cybercriminal successfully overcomes the company’s perimeter security, they immediately look for other systems they can access and infiltrate. Limiting unsanctioned lateral movement can stop them in their tracks. Microsegmentation is helpful because it establishes isolated network zones.

Data Encryption

Companies often focus on encrypting data during transmission. Sensitive data should also be encrypted at rest to prevent unauthorized parties from accessing it. Never assume a corporate network is secure. Always encrypt the data even as it moves internally.

Password Policies

Countless data breaches occurred because employees did not have robust passwords. Business owners must require passwords for all applications and services running on their network. These requirements might include a minimum password length, multi-factor authentication, or mandatory monthly or quarterly password changes.

Training

Any person with access to sensitive data must undergo comprehensive cybersecurity training. Employees and contractors are two groups that need this training. Whether intentional or unintentional, mistakes on the part of staff, contractors, and partners continue to be a significant threat to data security. This area is also the hardest to protect against. Regular training can reduce the risk.

Data breach prevention is essential. However, companies must also focus on other areas. Business owners must find the right mix of cybersecurity policies for their organizational risk appetite. When the right mix is found, business productivity increases while the risk of a security incident goes down. Every business wants this.