Nearly three-quarters (73%) of cybersecurity industry leaders have experienced burnout in the last 12 months. With the shift to remote and hybrid work models, organizations have become increasingly reliant on cloud services, limiting security teams’ visibility into employee network and endpoint environments. This reduced visibility places company data at greater risk of cyber threats, leading to a surge in software supply chain attacks and ransomware incidents. As a result, CISOs face more pressure than ever to maintain robust cyber defenses.
Moreover, the role of the CISO has evolved in other ways as well. The frequency and severity of cyberattacks have increased, making security a board-level issue. The potential reputational, financial, and operational damage associated with an attack has driven more C-suite and board leaders to become active participants in cybersecurity conversations. While this is a positive development, it has also placed added pressure on CISOs, who must now communicate advanced security protocols to a non-technical audience and justify their defense plans.
To navigate these challenges, CISOs must elevate their leadership skills to effectively champion cybersecurity. Here are four ways they can do so:
1. Speak the language of the C-suite: Engaging governing counterparts on cybersecurity matters is crucial. Rather than overwhelming them with technical details, CISOs should focus on simplifying the link between cyber risk and business risk. By tying technologies and tools to specific business outcomes, CISOs can effectively communicate with other leaders who may not have the same level of technical expertise.
For example, instead of delving into the intricacies of specific security systems, CISOs can advocate for an enhanced Intrusion Detection System (IDS) by highlighting how the current system has detected and blocked over 50,000 attacks in the past year, potentially preventing millions of dollars in financial losses. This approach helps CISOs speak the language of the C-suite and demonstrate the value of cybersecurity investments.
2. Spearhead training initiatives: CISOs are responsible for the entire organization’s data security, which demands effective engagement with employees to ensure strong network and system security. To bolster employee vigilance and training efforts, CISOs should develop initiatives such as targeted anti-phishing campaigns and incident response training. These initiatives not only demonstrate leadership skills but also help safeguard the organization’s data.
3. Remain curious and aware: As the threat landscape continues to evolve, CISOs must continuously update their knowledge and skills to stay ahead. Staying aware of emerging cyber threats and industry trends is crucial for identifying tools and resources that can assist in mitigating threats. Pursuing advanced degrees, certifications, or conducting regular reassessments of office network and system security can contribute to the CISO’s knowledge base.
However, it is not enough for CISOs to educate themselves alone. They need to share their knowledge with their broader leadership team. While C-suite leaders tend to be aware of high-profile ransomware attacks and data breaches, they often lack awareness of other external factors that affect security, such as legislative attempts to control organizations’ use of encryption. By understanding how such bills impact business operations and direction, CISOs can assist leaders in navigating the intersection of security and regulatory compliance for more informed decision-making.
4. Hone soft skills: While technical skills are crucial for a CISO, excellent soft skills can significantly enhance communication with stakeholders. Building non-technical abilities like communication and leadership is essential. CISOs can partner with other leaders within the organization to conduct cross-functional projects, attend workshops on public speaking and active listening, and seek feedback from colleagues to identify areas for improvement.
In conclusion, the role of CISOs has become increasingly challenging and critical in today’s cyber threat landscape. Elevating leadership skills is essential for CISOs to effectively champion cybersecurity within their organizations. By speaking the language of the C-suite, spearheading training initiatives, remaining curious and aware, and honing soft skills, CISOs can lead their organizations to a more secure future. Prioritizing professional development alongside companywide security initiatives will enable CISOs to effectively defend their organization’s digital assets while fostering a culture of proactive defense.