Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tom Kirkham. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Tom, thanks for joining us today. Finding those key vendors can often be make or break for a brand. Can you talk to us about how you found your key vendors?

When looking for key vendors for our managed IT and cybersecurity services, we knew we had to find partners that aligned with our commitment to providing “best of breed” solutions. The process involved a lot of research, digging into each vendor’s reputation, and making sure their offerings were up to our standards.

Once we find a vendor that seems like a good fit, we have some candid conversations about our expectations—especially around the need for ongoing support and innovation. We make it clear that we constantly reevaluate our services to stay ahead, and we expect the same level of commitment from them.

If I could do it over again, I’d probably push harder to set specific performance benchmarks right from the start. Our current vendors are great, but having those clear metrics early on would’ve made sure we stayed perfectly aligned as things evolved.

We ended up going with these vendors not just because they had great services, but because they shared our passion for continuous improvement. I think they made the deal with us because they saw the potential for a partnership that would push both of us to excel.

In the end, it’s about finding partners who share your values and are willing to grow with you. That’s been key to maintaining the high level of service our clients expect.

Tom, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Tom Kirkham, CEO and founder of Kirkham IronTech, and a two-time bestselling author with a passion for cybersecurity. My journey into this field began with a strong desire to help businesses protect themselves from the ever-growing digital threats they face today.

At Kirkham IronTech, we provide managed IT and cybersecurity services focused on safeguarding our clients’ IT infrastructure. We specialize in proactive threat detection, network security, compliance management, and IT governance, all designed to prevent cyberattacks before they become a problem.

What sets us apart is our 3 Pillar Methodology—governance, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity. This approach ensures that every aspect of our clients’ digital environment is secure, resilient, and optimized for their needs. I’m particularly proud of the trust our clients place in us, knowing we’re not just service providers, but true partners in their success.

Beyond our services, I’ve also authored two bestselling books on cybersecurity and regularly keynote on the subject, sharing insights and strategies to help businesses thrive in an increasingly risky digital landscape.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

Building a reputation in the cybersecurity and IT industry comes down to a few key factors. First and foremost, it’s been our unwavering commitment to excellence. We’ve always prioritized quality over quantity, ensuring that every service we provide meets the highest standards. Our 3 Pillar Methodology—focusing on governance, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity—has also played a significant role, as it demonstrates a holistic approach that resonates with our clients.

Another critical factor has been trust. We’ve built strong, long-lasting relationships with our clients by being transparent, reliable, and consistently delivering results. They know they can count on us to protect their businesses, which has led to a lot of word-of-mouth referrals.

Thought leadership has also helped us stand out. Through my books, keynote speaking engagements, and educational efforts, we’ve positioned ourselves as experts in the field. Sharing valuable insights and staying ahead of industry trends has not only helped our clients but also solidified our reputation as a go-to source for cybersecurity and IT solutions.

Ultimately, it’s been a combination of delivering top-tier services, fostering trust, and sharing our expertise that has helped us build and maintain our reputation in the market.

Any advice for managing a team?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale requires a strong focus on communication, trust, and empowerment. One of the most important aspects is fostering an environment where open communication is encouraged. It’s crucial that everyone feels heard and knows their ideas are valued. Regular check-ins and an open-door policy help build trust and ensure that everyone is aligned with the company’s goals.

Empowering your team is another key element. Giving people the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens their connection to the company’s success. When team members feel trusted and capable, they’re more likely to stay motivated and engaged.

Recognizing and celebrating achievements, whether big or small, is also vital. Acknowledging hard work shows your team that their efforts are appreciated and reinforces a positive work culture.

Providing growth opportunities is another way to maintain high morale. By investing in your team’s development—through training, mentorship, or new challenges—you keep them motivated and help them see a future within the company.

Finally, leading by example is essential. As a leader, your actions set the tone for the entire team. When you demonstrate commitment, positivity, and a strong work ethic, your team is more likely to follow suit.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kirkhamirontech.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirkhamirontech/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kirkhamirontech
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kirkhamirontech/
• Twitter: https://x.com/kirkhamirontech
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kirkhamirontech
• Other: https://tomkirkham.com