The first mistake that outsourced IT support companies make is that they don’t have proper security measures in place. This should be one of the top priorities for any business, but it’s especially important for companies with sensitive data. The importance of this cannot be overstated because there are many cyber criminals who are constantly looking for ways to get access to your company’s network and steal information or disrupt operations. When you use an outsourced IT support company, it is crucial to ensure that they have a strong understanding of how hackers work and what steps need to be taken in order to keep them out.
Next, some outsourced IT support companies also make the mistake of using outdated software or hardware. You might think that older technology won’t affect your company’s operations, but the truth is that older systems are usually more vulnerable to security breaches. This means that IT support companies who rely on old technology can potentially put your business at risk of being hacked or having its sensitive data compromised in another way. It is crucial to invest in modern systems and equipment – even if it means investing a little bit more into an outsourced IT support company that uses up-to-date technology.
1. Not following up with clients.
The most common mistake an outsourced IT support company makes is not following up with clients when changes are made, so they don’t know if everything works. This can lead to downtime which leaves the business exposed. Even when changes are made with positive results, it is important to follow up so that your client will continue to have a good impression of you in the long term.
2. Putting off cybersecurity measures in favour of being cost-effective.
Not putting in place proper security procedures early on for your equipment or software can lead to major issues down the road that would be far more expensive than taking care of them right away (such as having all your data wiped off due to a ransomware attack). Not taking into account weak spots such as the human factor and protecting against them can be a fatal mistake.
3. Using outdated equipment and software.
Using older versions of your hardware or software oftentimes goes hand in hand with not taking proper cybersecurity measures because they are so afraid of having to update their systems which will cost money and take time! Some companies even limit the speed of an internet connection that they provide because it is too expensive for them to upgrade the hardware, leaving the client exposed to slow speeds, something you definitely don’t want when dealing with IT support!
4. Not having backups of data/equipment/software made off-site for emergencies
Having up-to-date backups (be it physical or virtual) of all your data, equipment and software is paramount to continued business operations. It is the most effective way to combat unforeseeable events such as natural disasters that can wipe out everything in seconds. Even if you have an off-site server but it isn’t backed up regularly or on a schedule then there is no point in having one!
5. Not offering proper training for employees who handle data/equipment/software
A lot of outsourced IT support companies let inexperienced personnel handle delicate tasks with important clients’ data or expensive equipment they are not familiar with which can lead to accidents that could be deadly down the line for your reputation! You should always have a plan for proper training for all employees who will be working with any of your systems and equipment.
6. Not being transparent with clients about the cost of services.
Some IT companies try to take advantage of their clients by not being upfront about the cost of services, often inflating prices without letting the client know! This can lead to a bad reputation and lost business in the long term. It is always best to be clear about what you are charging and make sure the client understands it!
7. Having an inflexible contract that doesn’t take into account changes in business or growth.
A lot of times IT companies have very rigid contracts that are set in stone and do not take into account changes in the client’s business or their own growth. This can lead to them losing business down the line when they are no longer able to provide services that the client needs. Contracts should be tailored to fit the specific needs of both parties involved!
Conclusion
Outsourced IT support companies make the same mistakes over and over again. As an outsourced IT company, it’s important to understand what these are so you can avoid them in your own business! Having proper security measures in place is crucial for all businesses today—especially those dealing with sensitive data or who have employees working remotely on laptops that connect to corporate networks. This blog post has covered some of the most common pitfalls out there that your team should be aware of before they take root at your organization too.
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