Top 3 Tips for Protecting your Business in 2021
Top 3 Tips for Protecting your Business in 2021
It is true that this year, has been unlike any other. As a result, many businesses have had to adapt and expand the ways they operate their business during these unprecedented times.If you are a business owner and are looking to enhance your business in order to meet the needs of the upcoming year, here are some strategies that can help.
Here are the top 3 tips for protecting your business in 2021:
Increase your Cybersecurity
As most businesses rely on the use of technology these days, there is a continual need to monitor any cyber threats that have the potential to infiltrate any of their online systems. While these attacks are an ongoing concern for companies, fortunately, there are ways to decrease and deter them.
Some methods of increasing cybersecurity for your business can include implementing measures such as using multi-factor authentication for logging into computers and other devices, as well as ensuring that firewall configurations are reviewed and updated on a regular basis. Additionally, customer data should also be protected at all costs so that any issues related to credit card fraud, such as identify theft do no occur.
As these types of threats can certainly interfere with the level of success a business can experience, being proactive and taking steps to update the methods used to counteract them is truly the best defense.
2. Consider Expanding E-Commerce Services
Once again, the ever-evolving ways that technology has enable businesses to continue to remain competitive, especially over the last year include the strategies that are being used to serve their customers, such as the methods they use when offering online purchases. Over the next couple of years, online sales will only continue to rise, and in order to maintain the growth of your business, and if you haven’t already, you may want to seriously consider expanding your e-commerce presence.
As these current trends are likely to continue, it is anticipated that nearly 75% of all sales will be done via mobile device throughout 2021. With online commerce apps being on the rise, switching to this approach can also be an extremely effective way to strengthen your business in the new year.
3. Plan Ahead for Unpredictability
Particularly at this time, it is extremely important to plan ahead for any unforeseen events. While it is definitely true that we can not always know what will happen, there are steps to take to plan ahead and having some contingency plans in places that will allow for adjusting your business strategies as needed will be necessary.
One main method of preparing for this new year is to start by taking note of recent business trends. This can help you to predict how these markets will be in 2021 as the country and world look to recover from the effects of COVID-19. Recognizing too, that these effects are likely to have long-lasting implications, is also an important realization. The fact that, certain business approaches such as e-commerce and various automation services have recently proven to increase business efficiency, with the reality being that they are here to stay, is an important perspective to acknowledge moving forward.
This year has taught us many things, and perhaps above all has made us realize that we need to be prepared for uncertainty. By looking at the events of the past year and how businesses have either pivoted to new approaches and succeeded or stood still and unfortunately fell behind, you can take these cues and use this knowledge to ensure you have done all you can to protect and set your business up for the most success possible in 2021.
Leaders Insurance also wants to help you protect your business. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you with your business and e-commerce insurance needs. As we all get ready to move into a new year, let us look ahead with a fresh perspective and a new found sense of determination.
Christmas Tips to Protect your Home During the Holiday Season
Christmas Tips to Protect your Home During the Holiday Season
For many Canadians this year, the Christmas season may look a little bit different. While the current pandemic has made staying home instead of travelling or visiting family more the of reality, there are still many ways to enjoy the holiday season from your own home.Here are some important tips to help protect your home this Christmas.
Decorate Safely
One part of the Christmas season that always brings a lot of joy to our homes is holiday decorating. Putting decorations up around your home, and decorating the Christmas tree are common traditions that take place across many households. Perhaps you are decorating outdoors and indoors to help spread the holiday cheer in your own home as well as in the neighbourhood. With that said, it is also important to make sure that this decorating is done with safety in mind.
For example, if you are stringing lights inside and outside of your home, you will want to be aware of the combination of the power bars and power cords you are using. One reason for this is so that you do not overload the outlets. You will also want to check that the cords are in proper working order. Making sure that the cords are free of frayed or broken wires is essential as these damage wires can pose a threat by having the potential to cause an electric shock or even an electrical fire.
You may also be incorporating candles into your festivities, and while these can be a lovely and calming addition to your home, you should avoid leaving them burning while unattended. Instead, blow them out before you leave the house or you go to bed. This way, your home and your Christmas celebrations will remain in tact and you’ll be able to enjoy the holiday with a great deal more peace of mind.
Beware of Porch Thieves
Another way you can protect your home this holiday season is to keep a watchful eye out for porch parcel thieves. Unfortunately, with the increase in online shopping and amount of deliveries we receive these days, this is only continuing to happen more and more in even the safest of neighbourhoods.
That said, if you have packages being delivered – all is not lost. Fortunately, there are methods of managing these deliveries and keeping your items safe. One step you can take can be to purchase a lock box for your delivered items. Additionally, you may also want to turn to security systems, such as video doorbells, alarms and smart lights as these can also help to discourage porch thieves. Finally, if you are able to have packages delivered elsewhere, for example, to your workplace or to a family member, this can help to reduce the amount of home deliveries, and in turn, instances of porch theft.
Monitor your Home While You’re Away
Porch thievery can also mean that strangers are potentially lurking around your home and this could lead to break-ins. As a result, you will also want to be proactive and make sure you are protecting your home from thieves who are even more invasive. An empty home or a home that appears empty can be all too tempting and sadly, the Christmas season is a common time for these types of break-ins.
Again, you may want to consider investing in a home security system, with an alarm and video camera setup. Whether you are travelling across town or a bit further this year, it doesn’t take a lot of time for break-ins to occur and it is best to be prepared, especially at Christmas.
Limit Personal Sharing on Social Media
On a final note, it is also suggested that you limit what you share on Social Media sites. While you may have good intentions about thanking people for their gift-giving generosity, this instead could be a virtual window into your home and the items you own. As a result, this could make you a target for future thefts. With that said, any actions you can take to either deter or catch thieves in the act, will be an effective way of keeping your home a lot safer this holiday season.
While COVID may have forced you to alter your plans this year, you can still make the most of the season by remembering to do what you can to keep your home a safe and peaceful place over the holidays.
Leaders Insurance can also help to protect your home this Christmas. Get in touch with us to find out more about our home insurance policies and how our services can contribute to the peace and comfort you experience not just this holiday season, but all year long as well.
What Precautions do We Need to Take as Homeowners as the Winter Approaches
What Precautions do We Need to Take as Homeowners as the Winter Approaches
As a homeowner, there are many responsibilities that require your attention all year round. With that being said, there are also some important aspects of homeownership to consider as we prepare for the typically-long and chilly Canadian winter months.Here are some precautions you can take to prepare your home for the winter season.
Check your Roof
First of all, a well-maintained roof will be very important under varying winter conditions. Whether you are having your roof inspected by a professional or you are doing it yourself, it is commonly recommended that you inspect it at least twice a year. With that said, when examining the roof, some key signs to look for include, any loose or missing shingles or any other wear and tear you can notice. Having these areas replaced prior to the winter is best, as sleet, ice, and snow can all lead to further and more expensive repairs down the line.
2. Clean your Furnace (Chimney & Fireplace)
The heating systems you rely on during the colder weather should also be taken into account when preparing for the winter. Having your furnace cleaned, including the filters replaced regularly will help to ensure your furnace will be working properly, especially when keeping up with the demands of the cold temperatures. It is also suggested that you have your furnace assessed each year by a professional as this can give you more peace of mind that your home will be well-heated during this winter.
Additionally, it is just as equally necessary to have your fireplace and chimney cleaned regularly and again, definitely before the colder weather arrives. In the case of a chimney, it is important to check that it is not blocked by any debris. A professional is also best suited to come in and check that your gas fireplace and/or wood fireplace are in working order and that you are safe to begin using it to help heat your space.
3. Secure Windows & Doors
Prior to winter, it is also best to check your windows and doors for any potential drafts. You can take steps to add more caulking and weather stripping to these areas to help fill these gaps. By making sure there are no openings around doors and windows, this helps to ensure that the heat is not escaping and instead, remaining inside your home where it belongs.
4. Store Outdoor Furniture
If you haven’t already done so, it is also a good idea to put away any of your outdoor furniture and other items. While some items, for example those made of metal, can be stored outside during the winter, you should still consider covering them and protecting them from the harsh winter elements. Other outdoor items, such as wicker and plastic patio furniture should be kept indoors whenever possible, as these materials will not hold up well when coming into contact with ice and snow. Taking steps to protect these items will mean that when the warmer seasons return, you can continue to enjoy them again, without needing to spend additional money to have them replaced.
5. Have Winter Supplies on Hand
Last, but not least, having the necessary winter gear on hand will also be an important part of your winter home readiness plan. With Canadian winters being somewhat unpredictable at times, it is best to have theses supplies at the ready, so you can muster through the winter season without scrambling to go out and purchase these items at the last minute.
Depending on what province and region you are living in, it is important to have the right winter gear on hand. For starters, having trust snow shovels and winter salt are a good place to start. If you are driving regularly this winter, then you will also want to have de-icer, snow brushes and scrappers to help prepare your car for safe winter driving. In the event, we have ‘snow days’ and are not able to leave the home, having some extra food stored and household supplies on hand, can also be highly beneficial during the winter months.
Finally, the proper home insurance will also help! In the event, there is any damage to your home, with the right insurance, you can rest assured that you are protected from any added future home repair-related expenses.
Contact Leaders Insurance to find out more about our home insurance policies, while helping to make sure you and your home are well prepared to cope with the wintry conditions that await us once again this year.
Fraud Prevention in 2021: What is top of mind & what may change
Fraud Prevention in 2021: What is top of mind & what may change
While online scams have been around for many years now, they have definitely increased in both frequency and ‘uniqueness’ over the last decade. More recently, new and more high tech ones are an ongoing and unwelcome occurrence, with COVID-19 related scams, sadly also having taken off in light of the recent pandemic.
As a business owner, it is likely that you are often looking for ways to keep your business strong and lucrative. With that being said, even more so during this time, you will want to pay even greater attention to the various types of online scams which can target your day-to-day business operations.
Moving into 2021, the unfortunate reality is that these types of business scams are likely here to stay. Therefore, being up-to-date on the ways you can protect your business from various forms of fraud will be crucial.
So how can you make sure you are taking the necessary steps to ensure that your personal information and the information of your clients is being protected?
You can start by being aware of the specific situations that can negatively impact the success of your business. Then you will be able to more effectively identify if you have the proper safety measures in place to counteract these types of online threats.
Some potential online scams to consider include: credit card fraud, computer fraud, and also fraud related to the transactions of funds. When it comes to protecting these types of areas of your business interactions, looking to have securities in place, such as firewalls and secure online payment capabilities is key.
Another important piece of the puzzle to ensure that your business is adequately protected is to consider the purchase of Commercial Insurance. While commercial insurance covers a broad range of areas pertaining to specific business needs, fortunately, fraud coverage is also a common component included in this type of policy.
While it is certainly a critical step to certify that you already have upped your online security programs, by also having fraud insurance on top it this, you can have that added layer of protection for your business.
Whether you are a small business owner or run a larger organization, having the right insurance can mean a big difference in your ability to operate your business with an added level of confidence.
As mentioned, these types of scams and fraud cases are sadly not going away anytime soon and especially as the market for online businesses is also on the rise. Therefore, keeping apprised of the range of possible ways your business can be affected, while may seem daunting, is proving to be more necessary now than ever. Having the insurance to support your efforts will in the long run mean that your business will have more opportunities to thrive, free of the constant worry from these types of online schemes.
Ultimately, by taking these added precautions, you can help to safeguard your business moving into a new year. That being said, Leaders Insurance is here to help alleviate these concerns as well. Contact us to learn more about Commercial Insurance and the added fraud protection – and peace of mind that our policies can provide.
How COVID-19 Has Changed How We Deliver Insurance
How COVID-19 Has Changed How We Deliver Insurance
The recent months have definitely brought about many changes in our daily lives. The presence of COVID-19 has driven the need to find creative and effective methods of continuing to live our lives, in order to balance our need to protect our health and safety, while also having access to various essential services. This reality absolutely include the way we access our ongoing insurance requirements.
How Insurance Delivery Has Changed
Although some aspects of our daily lives have forced us to slow down and in some cases, we have even had to be put some of them on hold. As a result, insurance companies have adjusted the way they deliver insurance to their clients. With that said, these methods have not only continued to meet individual’s needs, they have also been maintained with both efficiency and the well-being of the clients in mind.
While it is true that individuals may be driving their vehicles a little bit less than they were prior to the pandemic, if they are car owners and are continuing to operate their vehicles, then they will still want to ensure that their insurance is kept up-to-date.
With COVID-19 unfortunately on the rise in many areas across Canada, insurance companies have taken some additional precautions to reduce the necessity for face-to-face contact, while still ensuring their clients have the essential insurance policies in place.
For example, clients can receive service over the phone and through email. This way, the in person contact is limited, and clients still have the necessary contact with their insurance agents. Conversations over the phone can still ensure clients are kept informed about the specifics of their policies and they can also get in touch when they are in need of making any adjustments to their insurance.
Additionally, when it comes to receiving the official paperwork, email or by regular mail is an effective method of ensuring the critical insurance documents are processed and delivered in a timely manner. In many cases, car owners can receive their vehicle renewal forms right away and can proceed with their daily needs, without any added worry – one thing we all can benefit from right now. Either way, clients can still feel both safe and satisfied with their insurance delivery.
Benefits of Virtual Insurance Services
As mentioned, there are many advantages to delivering insurance using virtual methods. Insurance clients can benefit from the convenience of staying home while continuing to access these services. Life can be very hectic and this option allows for a more efficient and less time-consuming process. In the event, someone is unwell and not able to leave their own, unless it is for an essential service, they can still move forward with their insurance renewals.
Staying home and protecting ourselves and each other, whenever possible, is of the upmost importance now more than ever. Therefore knowing that our insurance needs are adequately being met can help promote the well-needed peace of mind that when we need to use our vehicles, everything is in place and there is no need to worry about driving with either outdated or lapsed insurance.
On a final note, in the event someone is driving less regularly these days, whether it is due to the current pandemic or for other reasons, it is also worth contacting their insurance agent to discuss any necessary changes to their current policy.