Why C-Level Executives Need IT Support ASAP
While IT support is important across all levels of an organization, C-Level (CEO, COO, CFO, etc.) executives need dedicated attention unlike any other person in a corporate hierarchy. This statement is no slight to one’s general ability to effectively manage staff and navigate operations amidst an advancing tech environment, mind you. Instead, there are very explicit reasons for you (a top level executive) to bring in outside IT support services to assist in your role. Let’s review.
3 Reasons Why Top Level Executives Require Dedicated IT Support to Help their Organizations Succeed in 2020 and Beyond
1. You’re the Top Target for Cybercriminals
Cybercriminals have laser beam focus on you above all others in your organization. You hold the literal and proverbial keys to data warehouses and financials. They are crafting spear-phishing campaigns – collecting personal and professional information from your corporate website, your social media profiles, and any other digital resources that references you specifically. They know where you live, what you have done recently (business trips, etc.), who you associate with, and have even picked up on some of your communicatory (digital or otherwise) cues. They then purchase website domains that closely match your own corporate URLs and create email addresses that nearly mimic your own. They use this ammunition to contact subordinates to request access to sensitive information and/or fund transfers. When doing so, they create a sense of urgency (“I need it now!”) so that staff does not notice a single character in the email address varies from your own. Conversely, they are using the same spear-phishing tactics to pose as your staff, and will contact you to request access to sensitive digital materials. If your communication systems are not protected these imposters have a greater chance of success. This is just one example of how cybercriminals are creatively subverting your IT security defenses. Without a 24/7 security guard (so to speak) at your side you are extremely vulnerable.
2. Liability Implications of Corporate Responsibility
The onus of corporate responsibility falls on the shoulders of C-level executives. As a company owner or top level decision maker you have inherited a duty to exercise due diligence in performance of all company activities – including ones powered by technology. If it can be proven that you did not exercise this due diligence, you may be held liable in claims court.
For instance, if any event results in the loss or compromise of data and violates compliance laws, you may be held responsible. Or, if a malfunction of equipment or machinery results in injury and/or environmental damage, you may be held responsible too. These concerning scenarios (among others) can be prevented with better IT support. IT support can protect your digital assets and introduce automation that is backed by AI-driven IoT to ensure more efficient operations while mitigating the risk of disastrous events. In doing so, you have less to worry about when it comes to corporate responsibility and claims made against you specifically. Even comprehensive directors and officers liability insurance won’t cover you as well as dedicated IT support.
3. Staff Looks to You to Set an Example
We’re deep into the era of digital transformation, whether you are ready for it or not. To progress and remain competitive you need to increase adoption of cloud computing services and ensure that your company is leveraging superior software-as-a-service (Saas) for enhanced security and productivity – both of which reinforce revenue generating strategies. As an executive, you have the responsibly to communicate the need to use or better leverage tools such as MS Office 365, G Suite, and other cloud-based solutions. But to achieve “buy in” from subordinates you need to set an example not only by using these digital resources, but by becoming proficient in them. You will be expected to have an in-depth knowledge of these business applications if not your company’s entire IT infrastructure. However, as a top level executive you do not have the time to read manuals and watch eTutorials which is why you need to receive training from an IT professional. An IT expert will provide executive-level onboarding and educate you on what you need to know about your updated digital environment. They will delve into practical applications that apply to your business’ unique needs so that no time is invested in those that do not.
Contact SAV Technology today to learn more about how we provide support for executives who are hoping to get more from their IT infrastructure.