Digital transformation is the process of integrating digital technology into every area of your business. It might mean changing your products or services, your operations, your marketing, and more!

Making these changes isn’t quick or easy, but it’s worth it. Digital transformation can help streamline your operations, improve your products and services, improve your customer experience, and increase your profits! Businesses that fully embrace digital transformation have a competitive edge over those that don’t.

If you want to boost your business through digital transformation, we recommend you start with these four essential skills:

Skill 1: Cybersecurity

According to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024, data breaches are costing companies more than ever. The current global average cost of a data breach is 4.88 million USD—a 10% increase over last year and a record high.

Of course, some companies are more at risk for a data breach or other cyberattacks than others. But no matter your business size or type, it’s important to make sure your files and devices are safe—for the sake of your customers and your business!

To accomplish this, there needs to be someone at your business who understands and is responsible for cybersecurity. This could be one single consultant or a whole in-house team. They should keep up to date with the latest developments in the field so that they can watch for, recognize, and defend against cyberattacks.

Skill 2: Digital Literacy

A recent report by the National Skills Coalition tells us that 1 in 3 workers in the US lack foundational digital skills. You may have some employees who are struggling with the less intuitive aspects of everyday programs like Word, Slack, and Zoom, or who are hesitant to try out new tools.

As part of your business’s digital transformation, support these employees in getting up to speed with online training courses or in-person sessions. It’s ideal to do this on a regular basis, as technology is constantly changing. This will help keep your business relevant and running smoothly.

Skill 3: Digital Marketing

Old-school marketing isn’t dead; people do pay attention to billboards, signs, and other in-person ads! But digital marketing can’t be ignored. People spend a significant amount of time online, and your marketing team should have a digital marketing strategy that helps you connect with your customers in a meaningful way. For most businesses, this strategy should include an SEO-optimized website, social media campaigns, email sequences, and paid advertising.

It’s also important to understand the newer programs, methods, and tools available—including these AI marketing tools—and to be aware of this year’s digital marketing trends.

Skill 4: Data Analysis

More data is one of the biggest benefits of digital transformation, but data is only useful when you have the skills to utilize it. Can your team turn raw data into actionable insights?

Analyzing website data can help you locate areas of friction where you might be losing customers. Analyzing social media data can help you figure out what campaigns are the most effective so you can focus your time and money there. Analyzing operations data can help you streamline your processes and create an efficient workplace. Data analysis can truly improve any aspect of your business!

If you’re new to data analysis, check out our 4 essential KPIs for digital marketing success and our guide to social media metrics for a start. This is another area where it might be smart to invest in professional development for your employees.

Get Help with Your Business’s Digital Transformation

If you’re looking for support through your digital transformation, 2XM would love to hear about your business plans, needs, and goals. We can help with website design, social media marketing, pay-per-click advertising, and much, much more! Contact us for a FREE 60 minute consultation today.