Having a good cybersecurity team is more essential than ever as cyber threats continue to increase. And, according to a recent ISACA report, 62% of businesses have understaffed cybersecurity teams. But, recruiting skilled cybersecurity professionals isn’t cheap, particularly in the current economic climate. That’s why it’s important to hire the right people in the first place.
Here are five things to consider when looking for the next person to join your organisation.
1. Focus on skills not qualifications
Instead of focusing on existing experience and qualifications in the industry, instead look for the skills a good cybersecurity professional needs. This might mean looking for graduate candidates or people looking to switch careers. That way, you can save money on recruiting and instead invest in good training and development that ensures you will end up with a high-quality team member in the long run.
2. Go to industry events
Not only are you likely to meet highly-skilled cybersecurity professionals that might be suitable for your organisation, but you’ll also be able to learn about emerging industry trends that you need to consider. This will help you to further refine the type of person your team needs based on the evolving risks your business is likely to face.
3. Look online
Everyone has some form of online public profile these days, and more people are using this to promote themselves to potential employers, whether that’s through a LinkedIn profile, a dedicated YouTube channel or their own industry-related blog. By looking at the knowledge these people are already sharing online, you’ll be able to get a good idea of whether they’re the right fit for your team.
4. Use a specialist recruiter
To get the best candidates it makes sense to go to recruiters who really understand the industry, even if they are more expensive than generic recruitment platforms and agencies. They will know the right questions to ask in order to shortlist only the most appropriate candidates for the role.
5. Let them come to you
Rather than spending time and money actively searching for the right person, instead focus on making your business so attractive that the best people will already be applying for the job. That includes focusing on developing a good company culture, sharing positive employee testimonials, offering attractive benefits such as flexible or remote working and providing career development opportunities.