The Cyber Security Recruitment Crisis: How We Can Protect Our Industry From Losing Its Talent
The global cyber security sector has grown rapidly over the past few years. Thanks to the new technological innovations, our increased reliance on digital systems, and the ever-evolving tactics and tools of cyber criminals, cyber security has become essential in protecting our sensitive information and preventing cyber attacks. However, despite this, the field is facing a significant challenge that could pose a threat to our cyber security.
The cyber security industry is currently facing a talent shortage crisis. In the US alone, there are currently over 700,000 unfilled positions in the cyber security field. This shortage is due to several factors, including an increase in technological advancement and reliance, a lack of formal cyber security education and training programs, and a lack of diversity in the talent pool.
One of the main factors contributing to the talent shortage in cyber security is the increasing demand for cyber security professionals. The rapid rate of technological advancement and the increasing reliance on technology means that there is an ever-growing demand for cyber security professionals. More businesses and individuals require cyber security services to protect their digital assets from increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. This demand is only likely to increase as technology becomes more integrated into daily life, creating further cyber security risks.
Another contributing factor is the lack of formal cyber security education and training programs leading to a limited pool of qualified candidates. While there are many cyber security certifications available, there are few formal education programs that provide comprehensive training. This makes it difficult for individuals to gain the desired skills needed to enter the industry and for businesses to find qualified candidates.
Finally, the industry’s reputation for being male-dominated and lacking diversity may be turning away potential candidates. Women and people of colour are underrepresented in the cyber security industry, making up only a small percentage of the workforce. This not only limits the number of qualified candidates but also contributes to a lack of innovative thinking and problem-solving within the industry.
To combat the talent shortage crisis, cyber security recruiters must focus on recruitment and retention strategies. One way to do this is by offering competitive salaries and benefits packages. This can help to attract qualified candidates and retain existing employees. Businesses should also consider offering flexible work arrangements, such as remote work options, to help make the industry more accessible. Another way businesses can retain existing employees is to offer upskilling programmes. This is a great way to offer professional growth and development while also ensuring that the current workforce is kept up to date with the dynamic landscape of technological innovation. Access to upskilling programmes is also a great way to attract new talent who may have less experience in the field and can benefit from on the job training.
Another approach to addressing the talent shortage is to create a more diverse and inclusive industry. This can be achieved by actively recruiting women and people of colour, as well as creating mentorship and networking opportunities for underrepresented groups. Businesses should also work to create a culture of inclusivity and diversity within the workplace to attract a wider range of candidates. Employee resource groups are a great way to foster a spirit of inclusivity in the workplace as well as participating in cyber professional networking events for women and people of colour.
In addition to these strategies, the cyber security industry as a whole must take responsibility for nurturing and encouraging new talent. This can be achieved by partnering with educational institutions to create formal cyber security education and training programs. Businesses can also offer internships and mentorship programs to help students and new graduates gain the skills and experience needed to enter the industry. As a step to start implementing these measures, Infosec K2K are currently developing a university program for selected universities in India. The program will provide cyber security training to students as a formal course for university credit.
Made up of an experienced team of cyber security consultants, technicians and engineers specialising in identity and access management and general cyber security consulting, our understanding of the cyber security market is unparalleled.
Our vast range of consulting services is designed to ensure optimal protection for your systems, and for your teams. From vulnerability management, pen testing, breach mitigation and attack simulations all the way up to large-scale security operations centres, we tailor our solution to your business’s unique security needs.
Get in touch with us to find out more about how we can help you.