People First: Building a Cybersecurity Culture
When was the last time you involved people outside of IT in your cybersecurity initiatives? Too often, security measures are developed in isolation, leaving employees feeling disconnected from the process. This disconnect can create frustration and resistance, preventing security efforts from becoming part of the company’s culture. To build a truly resilient cybersecurity environment, it’s crucial to engage everyone, not just the IT department. By involving all stakeholders, especially when introducing new tools or policies that directly impact their work, you can foster collaboration and create a smoother, more secure workplace.
One of the most important parts of this process is simply understanding the needs of end users. Their main concern is being able to complete their responsibilities without interruptions. When security changes are not well-planned or communicated, it can feel like these measures are making their work harder. Without collaboration and input from the people affected, security can become a roadblock instead of a safeguard. Imagine someone constantly making your job more difficult without explaining why. How likely would you be to support their efforts?
To build support across the company, a focus is needed on more than just technical skills. We need to improve communication. As IT professionals, we often assume that others understand the technical language we use, but that is not always the case. This can create a communication gap and lead to misunderstandings. By breaking down security measures into clear and simple terms, we can help everyone understand their importance and gain their support.
Another way to illustrate the importance of cybersecurity is by showing how it can easily impact people outside of work. Sharing relatable 1:1 stories from individuals with similar experiences can make the consequences of poor cybersecurity hygiene hit closer to home. When people see how neglecting security in their personal lives can lead to serious problems, it resonates with what truly matters to them. While bringing in examples from outside the workplace might seem unconventional, it helps reinforce secure behaviors. If someone is mindful of cybersecurity at home, they are far more likely to carry those habits into the workplace.
Do you find yourself prioritizing the technical aspects of security training over connecting with the people who need it? The key to building a strong cybersecurity culture is ensuring that employees truly understand and embrace security, both at work and in their personal lives. By connecting security with what matters most to them and communicating in ways that make sense to everyone, you can create a culture where security is second nature. When people feel involved and supported, they are more likely to take ownership of cybersecurity, making your organization stronger and more resilient.
Don’t know where to start on this journey? Let’s work together!
