Running a SME Business is Hard Work

The more time I spend with SME manufacturing leaders, the more I get to see the weight you carry every day. Balancing the books, managing staff expectations for fair wages amidst rising inflation, and striving to keep your operations lean – it's no small feat. Your dedication to your business extends to the physical safety and security of your operation, evident in every corner of the facility. Safety measures like cages around machinery, hi-vis attire, and the vigilant placement of CCTV speak volumes of your commitment to protecting both your assets and your team's well-being. These are the results of years of focused effort, a clear priority given to visible, tangible risks.

With a full dance card of things to be done and every decision critically impacting your margins, it's understandable that priorities are fiercely guarded. I appreciate the temptation to sideline anything that doesn't scream 'immediate priority'.

Yet, consider this: the very challenges you might be tempted to defer could jeopardise all that you've worked so hard to safeguard. Cybercriminals are banking on your overwhelm. They're counting on you to deprioritise cyber risks, much like a thief eyes an unlocked door. Except, in this digital age, the door they're looking to open can lead to far more than just your physical assets.

Your commitment to physical safety and security within your operations is clear and commendable. From safety cages around welding stations to the ubiquitous presence of hi-vis gear and the constant alerts from forklift horns, you've built an environment that prioritizes the well-being of your team. Physical security measures, like reinforced doors and CCTV, are in place to deter anyone tempted to make off with valuable tools or inventory. You’ve been doing this for years and it's straightforward to focus on these tangible safeguards, yet the digital realm presents risks that are just as real but not as immediately visible.

Consider the impact of a cyberattack: Halting your production line or settling a fraudulent invoice, will cause immediate potential losses for SMEs ranging from $90,000 to $5 million. But it's not merely about the immediate financial hit, the deeper damage lies in the erosion of the trust and reputation you've worked tirelessly to establish. Moreover, the regulatory landscape is shifting, with ASIC poised to introduce legislation that places personal responsibility on directors for cybersecurity breaches.

Despite this intimidating scenario, there's a positive message I want to share. Strengthening your cybersecurity doesn't have to be a complex or costly venture. My experience has shown time and time again that you can create a robust digital defence without needing to become a tech expert or break the bank.

Acknowledging the challenges you already navigate, I propose a different kind of investment: modest, manageable, and most importantly, effective. Imagine dedicating less than $1000 and no more than three hours to transition from uncertainty to having a bespoke cybersecurity strategy. A plan that's not only tailored to your business's unique needs but is also comprehensible and actionable, even if you're not a tech aficionado. This is not just about mitigating risks; it's about affirming your role as a proactive, forward-thinking leader. It's about ensuring that the future of your business, the security of your employees, and your legacy are protected against the ever-present digital threats.

I invite you to take this crucial step with me. Let's demystify cybersecurity together, making it a seamless part of your business strategy. With a minimal investment of time and money, you can secure not just your operational integrity but also a peace of mind that's priceless.

Over the coming months I'll be hosting a number of in-person workshops where we will not only create your actionable cyber strategy, but you'll understand the digital risk and mitigants in your business just as well as you do the physical ones. Moving beyond the reliance on cyber salesmen's assurances, you will be armed with the knowledge necessary to confidently make informed decisions that ensure your cyber investments truly protect your business. If that's something that appeals to you let me know by reply email and I'll get you on the list.