What cybersecurity professionals can do for your business
Cybersecurity professionals defend computers, servers, networks, mobile devices and data from being damaged or stolen by cybercriminals. They work to prevent damage from being caused by malware and hackers, and repair damage if it occurs.
There are several common job titles and functions that come under this occupation.
Cybersecurity specialist/technician
This entry-level role undertakes the basic tasks of cybersecurity, such as building firewalls and searching for vulnerabilities in software, computers or mobile devices. They may also help the more senior staff monitor and respond to cyber-attacks, and suggest measures to improve security.
Cybersecurity analyst
These workers monitor networks, looking for and detecting cyber threats to an organisation’s digital assets. They also devise solutions to resolve and protect the business. It is considered a mid-career position, with workers moving into the role after gaining experience as a cybersecurity specialist/technician.
Cybersecurity engineer
Cybersecurity engineers are senior employees who can design and implement tailored cybersecurity software programs, by analysing the organisation’s needs. They are skilled at testing programs to identify and fix vulnerabilities before cybercriminals can exploit them.
Cybersecurity architect
This role is similar to cybersecurity engineers, but they greatly focus on strategic planning and long-term solutions. For example, they may develop timelines for system upgrades and establish security protocols for employees to follow.
Security administrator
This senior role involves managing all networks and devices and liaising with employees and business managers. For example, they will ensure all devices receive updates and communicate to staff when this will occur. They also organise security procedures training for staff and increase their security awareness.
Penetration tester
Also known as ethical hackers, the sole focus of penetration testers is to discover vulnerabilities in a network and devices devised by other cybersecurity professionals. They are not involved in developing digital defences, allowing them to bring fresh perspectives and uncover overlooked areas that need strengthening. They then document their findings for cybersecurity professionals to act on.
Cybersecurity consultant
Consultants are hired on a short-term contract to help an organisation meet a particular need. It may be to respond to a cyberattack by unlocking devices or repairing damage. Alternatively, consultants may devise security measures to protect the business from an attack.
It may be beneficial to hire a consultant rather than an engineer, analyst or technician if the business has a few digital assets or does not have the ongoing workload to justify a full-time employee being appointed. A consultant may also be useful to help or manage more junior employees during situations that may be beyond their experience.
Why is cybersecurity important?
Businesses are increasingly using digital technologies across a range of functions instead of physical techniques. Whereas once criminals would have to personally attend a business’ premises to steal information from a filing cabinet or damage equipment to prevent the company from operating, these criminals can now be located anywhere in the world. This can make it harder for employers to protect their businesses, as more people are attempting to cause harm from a wider range of locations.
Cybercriminals are also quickly learning to overcome new cybersecurity measures being developed and implemented by businesses, meaning businesses need to constantly update their practices and procedures to have the latest protection.
If digital assets are unprotected, the business can fall victim to this type of crime and suffer various problems. While cybersecurity professionals may be able to help a business deal with a problem after it has occurred, it is best to try to prevent the problem from happening in the first place.
For example, cybercriminals can infiltrate a business’s computer system and prevent employees from using software. When operations come to a halt, businesses lose time and money. Or, if customer information held by the company is stolen and those private details of customers are made public, it can severely damage the business’s reputation and cause customers to stop patronising it.
How to hire cybersecurity professionals
When hiring cybersecurity professionals, there are a few things employers need to consider.
The business activities
The size of the business and its services may play a big role in the type of cybersecurity professional/s hired.
Larger businesses may have the workload to hire several employees with varying seniority and experience, while smaller companies might only have the workload and income to justify the hiring of one senior employee.
Organisations that rely heavily on digital technologies such as servers and networks, such as accounting firms, may want to hire more staff than those that do not, such as a carpentry business that may only have a few mobile devices.
Also, consider the likelihood of a cyberattack from occurring. A business that is a contractor to the defence industry may be a more likely target for cybercriminals than a hairdressing business, regardless of the business size or the equipment it uses. While any business can be faced with a malicious attack and needs to consider cybersecurity measures, the type and number of staff hired can depend on the risk of attack.
Qualifications
Cybersecurity is a fast-moving industry, and while qualifications such as a bachelor’s degree or vocational certificate can be an advantage for candidates, the theory and training they obtained during their education may quickly become outdated.
Look for applicants who have continued their learning via short courses, further study or industry workshops. A commitment to lifelong learning is key to ensuring the successful candidate remains at the top of their game.
Soft skills
You may find candidates who have the appropriate soft skills required, rather than qualifications, are better suited to your organisation. Consider the situations that employees may need to respond to, and what personality traits and interpersonal skills will be required to do so effectively.
For example, a natural curiosity, ability to work under pressure and problem-solving skills will be essential for the employee to respond to a cyberattack. Risk management may be useful to prevent attacks from occurring. Collaboration and teamwork may be required if the employee will work with other cybersecurity professionals.
Employee attraction techniques
Demand for top talent is always high, no matter the role, so consider how your business can attract the best workers available.
Salaries are often only one aspect that cybersecurity professionals will consider when assessing potential employers and job offers. Working conditions, such as work-from-home entitlements, employee benefits, like subsidised study programs, and career development programs, such as mentoring, are among the extras that employees may seek. Implementing some of these initiatives may also help to prevent staff turnover.
Hiring cybersecurity professionals can bring significant benefits to any business. By taking the time to determine the type of professionals required and how you will hire them, you will make it an easier process.
Read more: Cyber Security in Supply Chain and Its Risks to Your Business
