It’s no secret that the workforce is changing. More and more companies are shifting towards a hybrid workforce model, where employees have some flexibility in working. However, when transitioning from the traditional model to the hybrid model, challenges will arise for organizations of all sizes.
Fortunately, there are many ways to mitigate these risks and challenges to create a space where the business and employees can succeed.
1. Create a firm device use policy
You may allow employees to bring their own devices and choose whether they want them company-supplied or BYOD (bring your own device).
This could entail anything from giving your employees the option of choosing between an iPhone and Android phone to allowing laptops for home office work usage (in addition to desktops at the office).
Regardless of what you decide, this must be outlined clearly so there are no misunderstandings about how/when employees can use their devices.
Some of the pros and cons to a BYOD device policy include:
Advantages:
- Allows employees to work more conveniently—they can use their device and familiar software, etc.
- Can reduce costs for the company by not having to provide devices (though it’s essential that you still outline in writing what level of reimbursement is expected if an employee needs a new/replacement device).
Drawbacks:
- Heightened cybersecurity risks associated with BYOD policies if there are no guidelines set out about how the devices must stay up to date on patches, software updates, etc.
- No way to monitor the device’s ability to protect against malware.
Device policies should also take into account the use of company data on personal devices. While it may be easier to allow employees to access files quickly on their phones or home computers, this creates a risk for a data breach.
2. Don’t skip out on security training
Another essential aspect of the hybrid business model for you to maintain your business success is ensuring that regular security training occurs. Employees should be knowledgeable about good cybersecurity practices and know what phishing attempts look like.
It’s also a good idea to have an up-to-date incident response plan in place for when one of these attempts occurs. A quick response could mean it doesn’t affect the whole business.
This will keep your data safe no matter where your employees are located, which is essential with all of the cyber attacks going around today.
When transitioning from the traditional workforce to a hybrid workforce, don’t forget security – this could prove fatal otherwise.
3. Invest in a solid MSP
MSPs are able to provide remote monitoring and management (RMM) software that allows you to monitor your devices in real-time, which will give you peace of mind knowing what’s going on with your company data/devices at all times.
They can also provide alerts when vulnerabilities arise or install patches so that nothing slips through the cracks—this is especially helpful if employees forget about updates until it’s too late!
Some of the other services an MSP can offer businesses include:
- Installation of advanced firewalls
- On-site or remote IT Helpdesk
- Cloud computing options
- Data backup and recovery planning
How an MSP will Elevate Your Business
An MSP will allow you as a business owner or employee to focus more on growing and developing your business rather than worrying about who has access to what information. MSPs can significantly help manage cyber security services and help you stay on top of all the latest updates and patches—a huge step to take when it comes to protecting your business.
If you are ready to carry your business into a world of hybrid work, schedule a free consultation with Syzygy 3 to receive a cybersecurity analysis.
