Protect what matters most

By Dani Sheehan. 

If you’re unsure how your current software handles your information, now is the time to take control of your business data. 

From customer details and job histories to pricing, forecasting and employee records, every piece of information you collect plays a role in your success. In a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards sat down with Mike Ippoliti from Leap to discuss what contractors need to know about protecting their business data and what to look for in a secure CRM. 

Your data is your lifeblood 

Data touches every aspect of your daily operations. As Mike explains, “Your business data is the lifeblood – what helps you identify what to take advantage of when it comes to marketing, protecting homeowners and planning for growth and scalability.” When managed properly, data helps you track performance, spot opportunities and build trust with your customers. But if left unprotected, that same data can become a liability. 

It’s easy to overlook the need to protect your own data, but as a business owner, you’re responsible for safeguarding your customers’ personal information too. “We have to be very careful about where we input our data,” Mike cautions. From addresses and payment details to warranties and photos, homeowners trust you to keep that data secure. It’s critical to use a CRM and tech stack that are built with privacy and security measures in place. Encryption, data permissions and strong user authentication can all help ensure your business and customer information stay safe. 

Know the red flags and ask questions 

Not all software platforms treat your data the same way. Some tools may sell or share your information through third-party partnerships, leaving you vulnerable without realizing it. “It’s very important to review your end user license agreement,” Mike advises. “I always recommend taking it, throwing it in ChatGPT and asking, ‘How safe am I from a data perspective?’ It’s going to analyze that information and it’s the easiest way to find out.”  

At the end of the day, you should always maintain ownership of your business data. Mike explains that Leap is built on that principle: “We’re very firm believers in letting you access your data, giving you the tools to export it and use it as you need.” 

To learn more about how Leap helps you take control of your business data with secure, contractor-focused tools, listen to the full podcast episode.