Here’s our proven approach for high-growth teams:

1. Start with a Real Gap Assessment

Know where you stand — don’t guess.
We walk through each required control and grade your readiness.

2. Define Scope and Boundaries

Not everything needs to be audited. We help you scope smart, so you can reduce time and cost.

3. Draft Lightweight, Real-World Policies

Forget 60-page templates. You need:

• Clear responsibilities
  
• Version control
  
• Alignment with how your team actually works
  

4. Implement “Just Enough” Process

Examples:

• Quarterly access reviews? Set a calendar reminder.
  
• Change management? Track code changes in GitHub with PR approvals.
  
• Vendor reviews? Google Form + Notion table.
  

We help you build real but lean practices.

5. Automate Evidence Collection Smartly

Use tools like Vanta, Drata, or Secureframe — but with oversight.
We map which controls each tool automates and help your team fill the gaps.

6. Prepare for the Audit With Mock Interviews

We’ll simulate auditor questions, review evidence folders, and ensure you're ready — no surprises.

What Happens If You Skip These Steps?

Without guidance, startups often:

• Submit incomplete evidence
  
• Fail the first audit
  
• Lose 3–6 months fixing issues
  
• Burn out their team in the process
  

What Happens When You Do It Right?

You:

• Pass on the first try
  
• Impress enterprise buyers
  
• Close deals faster
  
• Have a compliance foundation that grows with you
  

We’ve helped startups go from zero to SOC 2 Type I in 60–90 days — while still shipping features weekly.

Free Download: Startup SOC 2 Checklist

Want a clear, no-fluff roadmap?

Download the Startup SOC 2 Checklist

Ready to Get Compliant Without the Chaos?

Careful Security helps startups:

• Scope fast
  
• Close gaps
  
• Automate the boring parts
  
• Pass their audit with confidence
  

Book a 30-Minute SOC 2 Readiness Consult
You focus on growth. We’ll handle the audit.