How Team Training Can Help You Find Your Way Out of the Talent Desert
The cyber threat landscape continues to increase rapidly: according to an analysis by IT Governance reported by Cyber Magazine, there has been a 951% increase in publicly disclosed incidents year-on-year since March 2022. However, the growing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals far surpasses the available talent pool. In 2023, 3.4 million cybersecurity jobs will go unfilled.
This cybersecurity talent shortage poses a significant challenge for organizations globally. To address this gap, upskilling and training programs have emerged as powerful tools to equip existing employees with the necessary skills and knowledge. Additional data visualization tools from these programs can enhance the creation of targeted training.
The Talent Shortage in Cybersecurity
In the INE paper "A Strong Defense for Training Security Teams," we outline the alarming reality of the talent shortage in cybersecurity. Organizations struggle to fill critical cybersecurity positions, leaving them vulnerable to data breaches, cyber-attacks, and other malicious activities. The demand for cybersecurity professionals is projected to grow exponentially, making finding innovative solutions to bridge the gap crucial.
Hesitancy to Ask for Training
While the need for training is evident, employees may hesitate to request additional training for several reasons. Some employees may fear that asking for training will imply a lack of competence or expertise. This perception can hinder their willingness to seek further development opportunities. Additionally, time constraints and heavy workloads often deter employees from pursuing training, as they fear the added burden might affect their productivity.
Supporting Training Opportunities
Organizations must create an environment that encourages and supports employee training. Here are some strategies that can help bridge the gap:
Establish a Training Culture: Foster a culture where continuous learning and professional development are valued. Encourage employees to embrace training as an opportunity for growth and highlight its relevance to their current and future roles.
Develop Personalized Training Plans: Work closely with employees to identify their specific training needs and create personalized development plans. INE’s Skill Sonar is a skill assessment tool that gives cybersecurity leaders a look at real-time data from baseline assessments of their teams. This tailored approach ensures that the training aligns with their career goals and enhances their skill sets effectively.
Provide Time and Resources: Allocate dedicated time and resources for training. This may include scheduling regular training sessions, providing access to relevant training materials and courses, and offering financial support for external certifications. As the demand for upskilling grows, many organizations are partnering with training platforms that serve as a one-stop shop for their team needs. For IT teams, this may mean choosing a platform that addresses cross-skilling opportunities like networking security.
Internal Training Programs: In addition to your chosen learning vendor, establish internal training programs led by experienced professionals within the organization. This leverages existing expertise and creates opportunities for knowledge sharing and cross-functional collaboration.
Encourage Collaboration and Networking: Facilitate networking opportunities for employees to connect with industry experts, attend conferences, and participate in cybersecurity communities. This exposure fosters continuous learning and helps employees stay updated on the latest trends and best practices.
Benefits of Supporting Employee Training
Investing in employee training yields several benefits for organizations:
- Enhanced Cybersecurity Defenses: A well-trained cybersecurity team with access to the most current technologies and best practices becomes a strong line of defense against cyber threats. Organizations can reduce their attack surface by equipping employees with up-to-date knowledge and skills.
- Talent Retention and Attraction: Offering training opportunities demonstrates employee growth and development commitment. This, in turn, increases employee satisfaction, engagement, and retention rates. Additionally, prospective candidates are more likely to be attracted to organizations prioritizing professional development.
- Increased Efficiency and Productivity: Well-trained employees are more efficient in their roles, leading to improved productivity and performance. Training equips employees with the tools and techniques necessary to handle complex cybersecurity challenges, enabling them to work more effectively and proactively.
- Cost Savings: Investing in upskilling and training can be more cost-effective than constantly hiring new employees to fill skill gaps. By leveraging the existing talent pool and enhancing their capabilities, organizations can optimize their resources and save on recruitment and onboarding expenses.
The talent shortage in cybersecurity necessitates innovative solutions, and upskilling and training programs present a powerful remedy. Organizations can bridge the talent gap and fortify their cybersecurity defenses by fostering a culture of continuous learning, providing resources and support, and emphasizing the benefits of training. Partnering with INE gives your team access to hundreds of IT training programs for continued learning and improvement opportunities. And our newest feature, Skill Sonar, will provide the visibility cybersecurity leaders like you need to assess and upskill your team quickly. Demo Skill Sonar now!
