Receiving a SOC 2 report is a key milestone for any organization that manages sensitive client data. It signals a commitment to data security, which is an important factor for clients, partners and prospects. However, the report is not the end of the process.
To maximize the value of your SOC 2 report, it’s essential to understand what comes next. In this article, Boulay’s Risk Advisory Team outlines critical steps organizations should take after their first SOC 2 report to stay compliant, build trust, and leverage security as a strategic advantage.
Review and Remediate SOC 2 Audit Findings
Even if your SOC 2 audit resulted in a clean opinion, auditors may note exceptions or areas for improvement. These findings represent opportunities to strengthen your control environment and enhance your alignment with the Trust Services Criteria.
Action Items:
- Conduct a detailed review with stakeholders across IT, HR, and compliance.
- Assign ownership for each finding and develop a remediation plan with clear deadlines and timelines.
- Document all corrective actions—this will serve as evidence for your next SOC 2 audit cycle.
Share Your SOC 2 Report Securely
Clients may request that you share your SOC 2 report findings. Your SOC 2 report is confidential and contains sensitive internal information about your organization. Share it securely by using encrypted channels or a dedicated customer trust portal and always require recipients to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).
In many cases, a SOC 2 summary letter or executive overview is sufficient for prospects, while detailed control information remains protected. Remember that a SOC 2 Type 2 report evaluates controls over a specified period (typically three to twelve months), so maintaining controls and documentation is crucial to ensuring relevance to clients.
Using SOC 2 Compliance as a Business and Marketing Advantage
Your SOC 2 achievement can differentiate your business. Some ways to use this compliance to your advantage are:
- Incorporate your SOC 2 attestation into proposals, RFP responses, and client conversations
- Highlight compliance on your website’s security or trust page
- Consider a SOC 3 report if you want a high-level version suitable for public distribution
Maintaining SOC 2 Controls Year-Round
SOC 2 compliance is an ongoing responsibility, and controls must remain effective between audits. Maintain audit readiness by monitoring access management, vendor risk assessments, incident response procedures, and updating policies as your environment evolves.
Clients may still request detailed security questionnaires, even after a Type 2 report. A strong culture and well-documented processes help reduce friction when responding to these inquiries.
Prepare for Future SOC 2 Audits
Most SOC 2-compliant organizations undergo audits annually. Proactive planning ensures smoother audits and stronger data security. While there isn’t one definitive checklist for SOC 2 readiness, a few key preparations include:
- Update risk assessments and vulnerability scans
- Notify auditor of major changes (e.g. new services, system migrations)
- Consider expanding your scope to include additional Trust Services Criteria like Confidentiality or Privacy if relevant to your business
Not every operational change requires reporting; however, documenting internal updates ensures that your audit evidence remains complete and reliable.
Simplify Your SOC 2 Journey with Boulay
Receiving your first SOC 2 report is a major achievement—but compliance doesn’t stop there. Maintaining controls, staying audit-ready, and building client trust require ongoing attention throughout the year. Boulay can help your organization navigate SOC 2 compliance every step of the way.
Our risk advisory team helps you navigate every step of the SOC 2 process by addressing your specific needs and determining the right level of reporting for your organization. Whether you’re just starting the process or looking to strengthen your SOC 2 compliance, connect with Boulay to find out how we can support your compliance journey.