Original text

You put a lot of time, energy, and effort into your business. With so much invested, doesn’t it make sense to protect what you worked so hard to build?

Various ways exist to do that, such as choosing the right legal structure for your business, installing security software on your computer, getting business insurance, etc.

And don’t forget having an NDA!

What Is a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) And What Purpose Does It Serve?

An NDA is a contract that binds someone to keep confidential information secret. NDAs are typically simple, short, and sweet agreements. Having one in place helps protect the behind-the-scenes info you share with vendors, contractors, employees, and other business partners from being revealed to others. An NDA formalizes a confidential relationship, so private information stays private.

Who Needs An NDA?

If you think NDAs are only for big companies or businesses developing cutting-edge technology, think again! Every small business has confidential information worth protecting. Your processes and procedures, customer lists, marketing strategy, etc. are all part of what makes your business unique and successful. If any of that information gets out to competitors or otherwise falls into the wrong hands, it could jeopardize your competitive position in the market or put your business’s security at risk.

Who Should You Ask to Sign An NDA?

Consider asking any people and entities you do business with to sign an NDA. If you plan to share sensitive information with someone, I advise getting an NDA in place before you start disclosing that information. A good time would be as soon as you agree to work together or when you officially hire them to do work for you. In some instances, it may make sense to secure an NDA earlier (for example, if you’re sharing details while deciding whether or not you want to collaborate with each other).

Because NDAs are typically simple, straightforward legal documents that have become a commonplace when doing business, most people won’t push back when asked to sign them.

What Should Your NDA Include?

Exact elements may vary depending on the nature of your business and what your attorney recommends.

Generally, an NDA will include these items:

• The parties involved.
• What kind of information should be kept secret? (Rather than make this too broad, I suggest getting specific about what details you don’t want disclosed to more effectively ensure the other parties understand what information they are obligated to keep private.)
• What type of information is not considered confidential? (For example, information that was publicly known when the NDA was signed or that becomes publicly known through no fault of the receiving party.)
• How long should information remain confidential? (i.e., the term of the agreement)
• What happens if there’s a suspected breach of the NDA?
• What resolution method will be used in the event of a breach? (Many small businesses prefer arbitration over dealing with the court system. Because this doesn’t work for all legal matters, you might consider retaining an attorney in the event of a breach. A lawyer can help you recover damages—and attorney fees—if the other party is found guilty of breaching your NDA.)

What Are You Waiting For?

If you search online, you’ll find many samples and templates to help you create an NDA. Although it’s relatively easy to craft an NDA using the online tools available, remember an NDA is a legal document. Even if you don’t ask an attorney to create your NDA, I encourage you to ask a legal professional to review yours before you use it. With an NDA that does its job, you can sleep better at night (and work more productively by day) knowing your business’s confidential information is protected.