Protecting confidential information when employees leave

"I'm leaving" are the words that any employer dreads to hear from a key employee. Next comes the worry of how to make sure that business doesn't walk out the door with the departing employee.

An organisation's confidential information, such as trade secrets, client and supplier information, market strategies, price lists and other financial information are major strategic assets. They provide businesses with a competitive edge and can take years to develop. The protection of these assets against misappropriation by former employees is therefore of crucial importance.

Employers should take time to consider what information is of value to the business, who has access to that information and whether that information is secure.