6 Simple Phrases That Every Cybersecurity Leader Can Use

Building a Cybersecurity Culture That Works

Building a strong cybersecurity culture isn’t just about rules and tech—it’s about trust, teamwork, and making security feel like a shared mission. The way you talk about security can make a huge difference. with their team and with their users. Here are six simple phrases that can help cybersecurity leaders build stronger connections, encourage responsibility, and make security part of everyday work:

1. ‘Great job! Specifically…’ - Recognizing security-smart actions reinforces good habits.
2. ‘Tell me more’ - Listening to concerns helps make security more practical and user-friendly.
3. ‘Will you be a leader on this?’ - Framing security as leadership encourages responsibility.
4. ‘That’s a good idea you have’ - Giving credit to users for security ideas keeps them engaged.
5. ‘Can I get your advice?’ - Asking for input builds trust and makes people more invested.
6. ‘I’d be happy to help you with that’ - Offering support makes security feel like a team effort, not an inconvenience.

When cybersecurity leaders use these phrases regularly, security becomes something people actively care about rather than just another rule to follow.

1. ‘Great job! Specifically…’

Cybersecurity teams often go unnoticed until something goes wrong. Giving clear, specific praise keeps people motivated.

• Instead of just saying, “Great job on security training,” say, “Great job! You spotted that phishing email and reported it right away, which helped keep our system safe.”
• When people know exactly what they did well, they’re more likely to keep doing it.

2. ‘Tell me more’

Security isn’t just about policies—it’s about understanding people’s challenges.

• If someone complains about a security process, don’t brush it off. Instead, ask, “Tell me more. What’s frustrating about it?”
• Listening helps security teams find ways to improve processes so they work better for everyone.
• This also builds trust, making users more likely to follow security protocols.

3. ‘Will you be a leader on this?’

Security is a team effort, and people respond better when they see themselves as part of the solution.

• Instead of saying, “Make sure you follow cybersecurity best practices,” try, “Will you be a cybersecurity leader by setting an example in password security?”
• When people see themselves as leaders, they take security more seriously.

4. ‘That’s a good idea you have’

Users often have great ideas for improving security—encouraging them keeps them engaged.

• If someone suggests a way to make security easier without cutting corners, say, “That’s a great idea you have! Let’s see how we can make it happen.”
• Giving credit keeps people involved and invested in security efforts.

5. ‘Can I get your advice?’

People appreciate being asked for their opinion, and it makes them more likely to support security initiatives.

• Instead of pushing a new policy without input, ask, “Can I get your advice on how we can roll this out without disrupting your workflow?”
• When people feel heard, they’re more likely to follow security rules without resistance.

6. ‘I’d be happy to help you with that’

Security teams should be seen as partners, not rule enforcers. Offering help makes security more approachable.

• If someone struggles with setting up multi-factor authentication, say, “I’d be happy to help you with that. Let’s go through it together to make sure your account stays safe.”
• Creating a culture of support reduces frustration and makes people more likely to adopt security measures.

Final Thoughts

When security leaders use these simple but powerful phrases, they create a culture where people feel valued, supported, and responsible for security. The result? A workplace where security isn’t just a requirement—it’s a shared priority.

Remember that your People Power your Process!

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