Data shows that up to 90% of all jobs now use computers in some form, making the use of technology in the workplace inescapable these days.
But what good are these skills if your IT strategy leaves your business vulnerable to attacks, breaches, and network instabilities?
To let your business shine, you’ll need to partner with IT consultants who understand your company’s needs as well as you do. Outsourcing can be a great way to give your business the digital advantage it needs without overspending.
But what makes for a great partnership between your business and an IT firm? Keep reading to learn about five factors you’ll want to consider when choosing IT consultants.
1. Supplementary vs. Full-Fledged
Before you begin your search, ask yourself one important question: What are your team’s IT needs?
For instance, your business may already have an IT department. You may need a little supplementary consultation instead of a full-on managed service.
Likewise, if you currently don’t have an IT department at all, you’ll need to partner with a firm whose services include comprehensive care.
2. Communication Skills
You can tell a lot about an IT group from how they treat their potential clients.
For instance, a firm with IT consulting experience should never treat their clients as though they’re beneath them. Belittling someone for their lack of technical abilities doesn’t do anyone any good and makes the consulting group come across as pompous.
They should also do their best to follow-up on any questions or requests on a timely basis. Leaving you hanging when you’re trying to make an important decision for your company, even if you’re just comparing consultant fees, shows a distinct lack of professionalism.
3. An Understanding of Your Industry
Every industry looks different, and therefore, every business’s IT needs will vary.
A great it consulting business will understand the unique cyber threats facing your industry. As a result, they’ll be able to come up with a comprehensive plan to keep your data safe and your business running smoothly.
Partnering with a service specializing in your industry makes communication easier, faster, and more efficient.
4. Crisis Management Abilities
While consultants can protect your business from outside threats, it’s worth noting that 90% of cyber attacks are the result of simple human error.
Things can — and likely will — go wrong. As you interview potential consultants and ask for references and reviews, make sure to inquire about their crisis management skills.
Ask about a specific incident where they needed to put out a proverbial fire and how the incident helped them grow.
5. Expanding Skillsets
It’s tough to argue that keeping up with the latest common cyber threats can feel like a chore.
By the same token, criminals aren’t going to take a break. Cyber threats continue to grow increasingly sophisticated, making it tough for even the most tech-savvy of business owners to keep up.
That’s why you’ll want to partner with consultants who provide ongoing IT training for employees. A firm should constantly aim to grow and improve its skillset so it can continue to provide you with the most relevant protections and information.
Choosing IT Consultants Doesn’t Have to Be Hard
Partnering with an IT firm is more important than ever. That’s why you’ll want to keep these five tips in mind as you start your search for the right fit.
Feel free to come back and review this post throughout the process. Your company’s cybersecurity matters!
For more tips on choosing IT consultants, make sure to check out the rest of our business blog!