Compliance – UK GDPR FAQs

As a VA you have the same accountability to the owners of any personal data you process and responsibilities for your business as your clients have for theirs. When you handle personal data as part of the services you provide for a client, you are processing in line with your client's instructions and are accountable to them when it comes to compliance.

These are essential for small businesses and some of the biggest risk areas too. In fact, about 90% of the penalties* imposed by the ICO (Information Commissioners Office) have been for breaking the rules that relate to electronic marketing activities - in a nutshell, poor marketing practices. WARNING: The negative effect on your brand and reputation is the worst penalty of all. *The latest changes to penalties for these types of non-compliance involve a massive increase from a maximum of £500k to £1.7million!

You are accountable for the personal data your business processes and it's important to retain control over the what and how this is done. Small business owners often wish they could have the essential compliance admin work handled by someone else (please!). Setting up easy to use systems and processes can make it easy for a trusted VA to follow the business owner's instructions. It comes down to practicalities, monitoring, and good communication.

There are a couple of easy (and free) ways to do either:

1. Connect with me on LinkedIn. I'm happy to answer questions, and I share my knowledge and experience on there.
2. Subscribe to my Small Business Update News & Tips. Designed to be short, sweet, and useful. I send it out every 2 weeks or, if something important happens. Save your time and stay current.

If you need specific help or guidance, take a look at my 1-2-1 services.