When working with an information security provider, it’s important to do your homework. How much do you really know about the company handling your confidential material?
What Do You Need to Know Before Choosing a Vendor?
You owe it to yourself, your clients and your employees to make sure you collaborate with accredited, trustworthy information security vendors. Here are a few things to remember when vetting a potential vendor: (information via https://quickbooks.intuit.com/r/productivity/vet-potential-vendor-small-business/)
1. Is the company registered with the local Better Business Bureau?
A BBB affiliation and rating can offer validation of an organization’s integrity and performance.
2. Interview multiple vendors
It’s rare to hire the first employee you interview, so why select the first data destruction vendor you connect with?
Ask questions. How long have they been in business? Where are they located? How quickly does someone get back to you when you reach out to them? Do everything you can to ensure they’re a good fit. It’s not only something you will be evaluated in the unfortunate case anything happens, it’s also essential for a productive, professional relationship.
3. Ask for references
Any data destruction vendor worth their weight will have raving fans. Legitimate customers who you can contact and get validation on the company’s performance. Ask to hear from theirs.
4. Pay attention to certifications and insurance policies
Being accredited is proof of a company’s merit and skill in their industry. Similarly, insurance coverage specifically tailored to the industry, while not always required by governing bodies, is an extra step that shows that vendor’s dedication to the well-being of their customers.
For example, DataShield carries DownStream Data Coverage to make sure our customers are protected and secure.
5. Discuss and review their security
Especially in the information destruction industry, be sure to ask about that vendor’s policies and procedures on security and the measures that they take to ensure it through the entire destruction process.
Hire With Confidence
By following these important steps, you’ll be confident that you’ve partnered with the right information destruction and security vendor.
