How do you close network security talent gaps?

1 Assess your needs

The first step to closing network security talent gaps is to identify your current and future needs, based on your business goals, risk profile, and compliance requirements. You should conduct a skills audit to determine the strengths and weaknesses of your existing team, as well as the gaps that need to be filled. You should also evaluate your network security architecture, tools, and processes, and identify any areas that need improvement or innovation.

2 Train and upskill

The next step is to invest in training and upskilling your current network security staff, as well as other IT professionals who may be interested in transitioning to this field. You can leverage online courses, certifications, workshops, webinars, and mentoring programs to enhance their knowledge and skills in network security. You can also create a culture of continuous learning and development, where your staff can access the latest resources, best practices, and trends in network security.

3 Hire and retain

The third step is to hire and retain qualified network security professionals, who can bring fresh perspectives, insights, and solutions to your organization. You can use various channels to source talent, such as referrals, social media, job boards, and recruitment agencies. You can also partner with educational institutions, industry associations, and community groups to attract and nurture talent from diverse backgrounds and experiences. To retain your network security staff, you should offer competitive compensation, benefits, recognition, and career growth opportunities, as well as a supportive and collaborative work environment.

4 Outsource and automate

The fourth step is to outsource and automate some of your network security tasks, especially those that are repetitive, routine, or low-value. You can use external providers, consultants, or freelancers to handle specific projects, functions, or issues that require specialized expertise or resources. You can also use tools, software, or platforms to automate or streamline your network security processes, such as vulnerability scanning, threat detection, incident response, and reporting. This can help you save time, money, and effort, as well as reduce human errors and risks.

5 Learn from others

The fifth step is to learn from other organizations, experts, and peers who have successfully closed network security talent gaps or faced similar challenges. You can read case studies, articles, blogs, podcasts, or books that showcase best practices, lessons learned, and tips on network security talent management. You can also join online forums, groups, or communities where you can exchange ideas, feedback, and advice with other network security professionals. You can also attend events, conferences, or webinars where you can network, learn, and share your experiences with network security talent gaps.

6 Innovate and experiment

The sixth step is to innovate and experiment with new ways of closing network security talent gaps, based on your unique needs, capabilities, and opportunities. You can try new methods, tools, or approaches to network security, such as gamification, simulation, or crowdsourcing. You can also pilot, test, or evaluate different network security solutions, such as cloud, artificial intelligence, or blockchain. You can also collaborate, co-create, or partner with other organizations, vendors, or stakeholders to address network security talent gaps together.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?