In an age of escalating cyber threats, building a solid cybersecurity team is paramount for organizations that want to fortify their digital assets. And at the heart of a robust cybersecurity defense is a cohesive, skilled, and resilient team. But how does an organization go about building such a team?
The process involves more than hiring experts, which can be difficult because of the growing cybersecurity gap. It also consists of cultivating an environment where members can anticipate threats, adapt to evolving challenges, and collaborate in an environment that prioritizes security.
So how does an organization go about building a resilient cybersecurity team? We offer a few considerations.
Understand the Landscape Before Hiring
Before diving into the hiring process, it’s crucial to comprehend the broader cybersecurity landscape today. Do you understand exactly what skills your organization needs to be protected? The threats faced five years ago differ markedly from the newest malware, ransomware, phishing tactics, and other cybersecurity threats. Update yourself on the current landscape, or consider hiring a consultant to help you get a firm grip on your organization’s needs.
Recognize Diversity is Strength
When it comes to a strong cybersecurity team, the more diverse, the better. Cybersecurity covers a broad spectrum of threats. Different backgrounds bring varied experiences and problem-solving strategies, ensuring threats are approached from multiple angles. This diversity isn’t about ethnicity or gender but educational backgrounds, work experiences, and cognitive styles.
For example, while technical acumen is essential in a cybersecurity professional, critical thinking, adaptability, and communication are equally vital. A member might identify a vulnerability, but can they convey its implications and required action to non-technical staff? Additionally, the dynamic nature of cyber threats means adaptability is paramount. Hiring for these sorts of diverse skills is crucial for a holistic team.
Simulate Real-life Scenarios
Once you’ve assembled a cybersecurity team, it’s essential to regularly test the team’s skills and response times with simulated cyberattacks. These drills identify potential weak spots and help the team fine-tune their reactions to threats. When it comes to cybersecurity, it’s one thing to know about potential dangers in theory and another to combat them in practice.
Encourage Continuous Training and Development
As we’ve already mentioned, cybersecurity is a continuously evolving field. What’s relevant today might be obsolete tomorrow. Thus, invest in regular training sessions, workshops, and certifications for your team to ensure they’re always at the forefront of knowledge in their domain. At the same time, encourage your team to engage with the broader cybersecurity community, participate in forums, attend conferences, and share insights. This collective intelligence can be invaluable in pre-empting and dealing with threats.
Make Cybersecurity a Company-Wide Priority
Your cybersecurity team doesn’t operate in a vacuum. They’re part of the broader organizational culture. Make sure everyone in the organization has a basic understanding of cybersecurity principles. This culture of awareness will support the efforts of your specialized team and ensure that basic cyber hygiene is practiced company-wide.
Consider Alternate Hiring Options and Partners
Finding top-tier cybersecurity talent can be challenging. A recent survey from ISACA reported that 91% of hiring managers say problems with filling cybersecurity roles. If you have difficulty building a solid cybersecurity team, consider using a staffing and recruiting partner to help you in a search or completely outsourcing your security functions to a third-party vendor.
At Vernovis, we offer a range of engagement models to help organizations find quality cybersecurity talent when and how they need it. From staff augmentation, contract-to-hire, direct placements, and recruitment outsourcing, we can help you boost your current cybersecurity team temporarily or help you find a long-term placement.
Protecting Your Organization from Cyber Threats
Building a resilient cybersecurity team is an ongoing endeavor, one that requires investment, foresight, and a commitment to excellence. It’s about more than just repelling threats—it’s about creating an environment where your team is always prepared, continuously evolving, and deeply supported.
In a world where cyber threats continue to grow in complexity and scale, having a strong, resilient cybersecurity team isn’t just an asset—it’s a necessity. By considering the tips above, you can ensure you are not just responding to today’s digital threats but are ready for the challenges of tomorrow.
Are you worried about your organization’s cybersecurity posture but aren’t sure where to start? Reach out today to talk to our team of cybersecurity experts who can perform an assessment or build a cybersecurity roadmap customized to your company’s needs.
