The Small Business Guide to Getting GDPR Right
If you run a business in the UK, you’ve probably heard of GDPR.
It first came into effect in 2018 and changed the way we all handle customer data.
Fast forward to 2025, and those same principles still apply under what’s now known as the UK GDPR.
But while most of us know we should be compliant, the reality is many small business owners still aren’t completely sure what that really means.
At its core, GDPR is about trust.
It’s about showing your customers that you value their privacy and handle their personal information with care. It’s not about red tape or complicated legal jargon, it’s about protecting people and building stronger relationships with them.
Here’s what you need to know and the simple steps you can take to make sure your business is doing the right thing.
1. Get clear permission
If you contact people for marketing, you must have their consent. That means asking before you add anyone to your email list or newsletter. No pre-ticked boxes, no automatic opt-ins. Just a simple question like “Can we stay in touch with updates and offers?” This gives people control and keeps you compliant. It’s also good practice to record when and how consent was given in case you ever need to prove it.
2. Be transparent about how you use data
People have the right to know how you collect, use and store their information. The easiest way to explain this is through a clear Privacy Policy on your website. It doesn’t need to be complicated, but it should be honest and easy to find. Make sure it includes what data you collect, why you collect it and how people can request to have their data updated or removed. If you’ve changed systems, tools or software recently, it’s worth reviewing your policy to make sure it’s still accurate.
3. Keep data safe and secure
Paper notes or unprotected spreadsheets don’t really cut it anymore. Make sure your customer data is stored securely. Use password-protected documents, encrypted files or a GDPR-compliant CRM system. Many affordable options start from around £20 a month and will save you time as well as risk. Delete information that’s no longer needed and only keep what’s essential for your business.
4. Get your team on board
If you have staff or freelancers who handle customer data, they need to understand GDPR too. A short training session or checklist can go a long way in preventing mistakes. Everyone should know what to do if something goes wrong, such as data being lost or shared by accident.
Finally, remember that most businesses need to pay a small annual data protection fee to the ICO. It’s quick to check on their website and helps you stay on the right side of the law.
GDPR doesn’t have to feel like a burden. It’s simply about respecting the people who support your business. By taking a few simple steps, you can protect your customers, strengthen trust and show that your business operates with integrity.
If you’re not sure where to start or need some guidance on reviewing your data processes, get in touch.
Sometimes a quick conversation is all it takes to get things back on track.