{"id":17133,"date":"2025-12-15T11:51:46","date_gmt":"2025-12-15T11:51:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/?p=17133"},"modified":"2026-10-08T15:28:53","modified_gmt":"2026-10-08T14:28:53","slug":"turn-your-employees-into-cyber-security-champions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/turn-your-employees-into-cyber-security-champions\/","title":{"rendered":"Turn your employees into cyber security champions"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--standard\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/category\/technology-innovation\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Technology &amp; Innovation<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTurn your employees into cyber security champions\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLearn how to build a security champion program that boosts cyber security, reduces risk, and creates an always-on culture of protection.\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-8 col-lg-4 entry-header__image\">\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"entry-header__thumbnail js-hero-section\">\n\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1451456915-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"entry-header__thumbnail-image\" alt=\"Working on tasks for a tech business\" fetchpriority=\"high\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1451456915-1215x810.jpg 1215w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1451456915-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1451456915.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1215px) 100vw, 1215px\" \/>\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-12-15T11:51:46+00:00\">15 December, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"Turn your employees into cyber security champions\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/turn-your-employees-into-cyber-security-champions\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/author\/ashleyhindsmansage\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2025\/02\/Ashley-Thompson-350x350.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"Ashley Thompson\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2025\/02\/Ashley-Thompson-350x350.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2025\/02\/Ashley-Thompson.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 40px) 100vw, 40px\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Ashley Thompson<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cyber threats do not stop at large corporations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Businesses of all sizes, especially smaller ones, are increasingly attractive to attackers because criminals assume they lack the same defences as a large corporation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A single phishing email or weak password can expose sensitive data, disrupt operations, and damage customer trust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fortunately, protecting your business does not require expensive technology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your people can be your greatest asset. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By creating a security champion program, you can empower employees to act as ambassadors for cyber security, spreading awareness and strengthening resilience across your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this article you\u2019ll learn what a security champion program is and why it matters for small organisations, plus how to set one up step by step, and the common pitfalls to avoid. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here\u2019s what we cover:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-why-start-a-security-champion-program\" data-level=\"2\">Why start a security champion program?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-a-step-by-step-playbook-for-creating-your-cyber-security-champion-program\" data-level=\"2\">A step-by-step playbook for creating your cyber security champion program<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-roles-within-your-security-champion-team\" data-level=\"2\">Roles within your security champion team<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-tools-and-resources\" data-level=\"2\">Tools and resources<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-common-pitfalls-and-how-to-avoid-them\" data-level=\"2\">Common pitfalls and how to avoid them<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-why-start-a-security-champion-program\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why start a security champion program?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A security champion program is a simple way to spread cyber security knowledge and responsibility across your business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of relying only on IT or outside providers, you nominate and train employees from different teams to act as ambassadors for good practices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They help raise awareness, answer questions, and reinforce secure habits in everyday work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A security champion network gives you an extra layer of cyber security defence without significant costs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of security being a one-off training session or one person\u2019s job, it becomes part of your culture. That shift helps your business stay safer day to day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The value and benefits are tangible in four key areas:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Return on investment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You already spend money on tools such as antivirus software, firewalls, or solutions recommended by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) Ireland.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Champions help you get more from those tools by ensuring people know how to use them and follow the right processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A small amount of time invested in training and coordination can save thousands in potential breach costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Risk management<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When staff know how to spot phishing emails, weak passwords, or suspicious links, you cut the odds of a costly incident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Champions become your early warning system, flagging problems before they escalate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Brand reputation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Customers and partners want reassurance that their data is safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A visible culture of security shows you take their trust seriously, which can become a differentiator when winning new business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An always-on message<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Training once a year is not enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Champions keep security at the forefront of their minds by reinforcing habits in daily work, from checking emails to using secure file sharing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-a-step-by-step-playbook-for-creating-your-cyber-security-champion-program\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">A step-by-step playbook for creating your cyber security champion program<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Launching a security champion program is easier if you break it into stages. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can pace it to fit your business, but here is a simple three-month road map to get you moving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-weeks-1-2-recruit-volunteers\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Weeks 1\u20142: Recruit volunteers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Invite employees from across the company. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look for people who are curious, detail-oriented, or interested in professional growth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aim for at least one champion per team so security messages reach everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-weeks-3-4-set-goals\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Weeks 3\u20144: Set goals<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tie the program to your wider cyber security plan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Goals might include reducing phishing clicks by half in six months, improving password hygiene, or ensuring all employees complete training on time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-weeks-5-6-incentivise-participation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Weeks 5\u20146: Incentivise participation<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Position the role as a career opportunity, not just an extra task. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recognise champions in team meetings, highlight their contribution in internal updates, or offer small rewards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-weeks-7-8-provide-training-and-resources\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Weeks 7\u20148: Provide training and resources<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Give champions simple materials they can share. Use free resources from industry bodies, adapt existing training, or create short explainers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avoid jargon and focus on everyday behaviours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-weeks-9-10-communicate\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Weeks 9\u201410: Communicate<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Set up regular channels to keep the program visible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A short monthly meeting, a group chat, or a weekly security tip email can all work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Champions should reinforce good habits without overwhelming colleagues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-weeks-11-12-measure-progress\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Weeks 11\u201412: Measure progress<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start tracking results such as phishing simulation scores, incident reports, or training completion rates. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Share this data with leadership to demonstrate impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-month-3-onward-secure-leadership-support-scale-and-sustain\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Month 3 onward: Secure leadership support, scale, and sustain<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask managers to back the program openly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rotate roles to prevent burn out, refresh training, and connect the initiative to broader business goals such as talent development or well-being.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-roles-within-your-security-champion-team\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Roles within your security champion team<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A successful security champion program relies on people who understand your business and your systems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even in a small team, defining roles keeps things organised and helps champions play to their strengths.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t need formal titles or new job descriptions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Just assign light responsibilities that build confidence and accountability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are some examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Program lead<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Coordinates activities, tracks progress, and updates leadership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This might be your office manager, IT lead, or even a trusted senior team member.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Trainer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Explains new security practices in plain language and helps colleagues apply them daily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Researcher<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Stays informed about new threats and shares quick, practical summaries with the team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Communicator<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keeps awareness high through short messages, posters, or quizzes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They might also share quick wins or lessons learned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Planner<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Documents incident procedures, maintains checklists, and ensures follow-up actions are complete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small businesses often combine these duties. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The goal is not formality. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s engagement. When everyone has a clear role, security becomes everyone\u2019s job, not a side task that fades after training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-tools-and-resources\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Tools and resources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You do not need a large budget or advanced systems to launch your program. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right mix of tools and free resources can help your team stay informed and confident.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can start with what you already use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Communication tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, or email groups make it easy for champions to share updates and reminders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cloud storage and password managers can also add a layer of safety without extra complexity. Ensure any cloud solutions comply with Irish data protection laws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many government and industry bodies in Ireland (e.g., National Cyber Security Centre, Cyber Skills, or ISACA Ireland Chapter) offer free content for training, including phishing simulations, posters, and short courses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Encourage champions to use these materials to run quick awareness sessions or share weekly security tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AI can also help your program run smoothly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Create awareness campaigns using AI-generated emails, posters, or quizzes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Translate technical security updates into everyday language your team can understand.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Draft educational content or quick reference guides for employees.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The key is to keep tools simple and accessible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your champions do not need complex systems\u2014just clear communication, reliable resources, and leadership support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-common-pitfalls-and-how-to-avoid-them\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Common pitfalls and how to avoid them<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even well-intentioned security programs can lose momentum without the proper structure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are a few challenges small businesses often face\u2014and how to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Over-extension<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Champions are usually volunteers, so keep responsibilities light and realistic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on small, consistent actions that make a clear difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Lack of visibility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the program goes quiet, people forget it exists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Share updates, celebrate wins, and make your champions visible during meetings or on internal channels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Data overload<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tracking too many metrics can waste time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on a few meaningful numbers, such as phishing simulation results or incident reports.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Apathy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">People tune out when security feels like a chore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use short, relatable stories or real examples to show how small actions prevent real losses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weak direction<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without leadership support, programs stall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Managers should remind teams that security is part of business success, not an IT afterthought.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A security champion program is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to strengthen your defences, just committed people who understand that security is part of doing business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your program will depend on how well you keep it alive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Refresh goals regularly, rotate roles to keep people engaged, and keep communication open between champions and leadership. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The moment a program goes quiet, habits start to fade, and risks grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep your approach light but consistent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A short monthly meeting, a few friendly reminders, and visible leadership support can go a long way toward building a lasting culture of awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your employees are your first and strongest line of defence. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When they understand how to recognise threats and respond confidently, they protect your data, reputation, and bottom line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join 1.5 million subscribers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-53abbdcc-410c-4c8c-bf97-ca5c6982eebd\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"999\" height=\"666\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2021\/04\/z.5E3A0481_All-Uses.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2021\/04\/z.5E3A0481_All-Uses.jpg 999w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/tag\/business-intelligence\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tbusiness intelligence\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/tag\/business-management\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tbusiness management\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/tag\/security-fraud\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSecurity and fraud\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/tag\/small-business-saturday\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSmall Business Saturday\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/tag\/workplace-technology\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tWorkplace technology\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-18611 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-trends-insights tag-business-intelligence tag-business-performance tag-business-planning tag-national-minimum-wage tag-payroll tag-regulation tag-tax business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business business_type-accountants card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/01\/GettyImages-1282456779-1024x576-1.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Checking the numbers is a key part of running a business\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/01\/GettyImages-1282456779-1024x576-1-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/01\/GettyImages-1282456779-1024x576-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/01\/GettyImages-1282456779-1024x576-1.jpg 1024w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-10-14T14:53:48+01:00\">14 October, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">13 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/budget-2027\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBudget 2027 Ireland: What the new measures mean for businesses\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tBudget 2027 Ireland brings changes to payroll, Income Tax, employer PRSI, Capital Gains Tax, energy costs and business incentives. Discover what the new measures mean for your business and the actions to take now.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-18286 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-people-leadership tag-business-costs tag-business-management tag-grow-business tag-recruit tag-hr-process tag-looking-after-your-employees tag-payroll business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/minimum-wage-ireland\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-1035512574-1-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-1035512574-1-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-1035512574-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-1035512574-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-07-09T15:55:14+01:00\">9 July, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tMinimum wage Ireland 2026: the real impact on your margins\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-18036 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-people-leadership category-trends-insights tag-employee-benefits tag-employee-engagement tag-looking-after-your-employees tag-payroll tag-small-business-saturday tag-state-of-small-business business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/payroll-compliance-in-ireland-for-small-businesses\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/08\/GettyImages-1272758830-1440x810-1-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Colleagues around a table\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/08\/GettyImages-1272758830-1440x810-1-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/08\/GettyImages-1272758830-1440x810-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2024\/08\/GettyImages-1272758830-1440x810-1.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-29T12:10:42+01:00\">29 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">6 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tPayroll compliance in Ireland: your 2026 checklist for small businesses\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-18026 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-102 tag-business-intelligence tag-business-planning tag-cash-flow tag-compliance tag-profit-loss tag-tax tag-vat business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/vat-rates-in-ireland\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/10\/GettyImages-1254783885-1-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/10\/GettyImages-1254783885-1-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/10\/GettyImages-1254783885-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/10\/GettyImages-1254783885-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-26T12:03:32+01:00\">26 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">6 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tVAT rates in Ireland 2026: who qualifies for the 9% rate?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-17991 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-people-leadership category-trends-insights tag-ai tag-automation tag-business-intelligence tag-hr-process tag-hr-processes-medium-businesses business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/what-is-ai-in-hr\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A woman stands in front of the Sage glowline in front of a black background.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-19T16:33:22+01:00\">19 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is AI in HR and how can you use it responsibly?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how to build a security champion program that boosts cyber security, reduces risk, and creates an always-on culture of protection.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":281,"featured_media":14515,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"166","sage_membership_post_content_type":"article","sage_membership_post_featured_video_id":"","sage_membership_post_video_type":"trailer","sage_membership_post_featured_video_duration":"","post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[164,166],"tags":[258,259,151,152,160],"business_type":[5,4],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[247,211,232],"imagine_tag":[181,212,230],"coauthors":[392],"class_list":["post-17133","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-people-leadership","category-technology-innovation","tag-business-intelligence","tag-business-management","tag-security-fraud","tag-small-business-saturday","tag-workplace-technology","business_type-small-business","business_type-medium-sized-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-ie","author_name":"Ashley Thompson","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1451456915.jpg","imagine_tags":{"181":"Business management","212":"Mid-sized business","230":"Small business"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice Ireland","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17133","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/281"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17133"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17133\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18587,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17133\/revisions\/18587"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/14515"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17133"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=17133"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-ie\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=17133"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}