In a world where misunderstandings and misperceptions are common, it is important for security professionals to understand the impact of perception on their work. While it can be frustrating when others don’t receive or interpret information correctly, it is crucial for security professionals to adapt and ensure that their efforts are understood and valued by others.
One reason for the disparity between what is communicated and what is understood is that some people simply don’t read. It may be hard for security professionals to believe, but relying on individuals to read and comprehend written materials is unreliable. Even if read-ahead materials have been shared and multiple communications have been sent, there is no guarantee that everyone is up to speed. As a workaround, security professionals need to strike a balance between rehashing old points and ensuring that everyone is starting from the same understanding. This challenge, if tackled effectively, can help move strategic initiatives forward and ensure that messages are effectively conveyed.
Another hurdle is that people don’t always listen. It is frustrating when important information is shared repeatedly, yet some individuals fail to absorb it. To address this, security professionals must prioritize the information they communicate and remain focused on continually sharing the most critical points through various means and media.
One significant reason why people may receive a different message than intended is that they build a picture based on assumptions. When individuals lack facts or understanding, they tend to make assumptions and believe that they have a complete understanding of the situation. However, these assumptions can be inaccurate and harm the perception of security programs. To counteract this, security professionals must provide stakeholders with the necessary data points to form an accurate picture of the situation. Allowing stakeholders to piece together an inaccurate picture based on assumptions can hinder progress and perception.
Confusing facts and opinions is another common issue. While some individuals understand the difference, others struggle to differentiate between the two. To address this, it is crucial for security professionals to document the truth and ensure that facts are clearly presented. As the saying goes, “It’s easier to fool people than to convince them that they have been fooled.” By providing factual evidence, security professionals can combat the confusion between facts and opinions.
Logical individuals may also struggle with those who make decisions based on emotions or personal beliefs rather than facts or evidence. Understanding the audience and what drives their conclusions can help security professionals address misunderstandings and bridge the gap between logical and emotional reasoning.
Additionally, some individuals have difficulty using Occam’s razor, which favors simpler explanations or solutions. While security professionals often embrace this principle, others struggle to arrive at the most logical and straightforward explanation. In these cases, patience is key. Explaining concepts in different ways and helping stakeholders reach logical conclusions can aid in understanding.
Lastly, some individuals lack good judgment, especially outside of their main area of expertise. They may struggle to see the truth or comprehend the implications of security guidance and requests. To overcome this, security professionals must be explicit, clear, and concise in their communication. By providing explicit guidance and explanations, security professionals can mitigate potential misunderstandings caused by poor judgment.
Perception is a crucial factor in the success of security programs. In an ideal world, clear acts and communication would yield the intended meaning. However, in reality, perception is what matters. Understanding this reality and adjusting delivery accordingly can allow security professionals to effectively demonstrate the value of their programs and enhance the overall security posture of their organizations. By acknowledging the various reasons for communication gaps and implementing the suggested workarounds, security professionals can ensure that their efforts are communicated and understood accurately.