Cyber Skills Shortage vs Cyber Skills Gap

The wider issue of cyber skills is a multifaceted challenge, distinguished by a nuanced difference between a skills shortage and a skills gap. A shortage refers to the number of people entering the industry compared to the number of open job vacancies, while the skills gap is less tangible, defined by the lack of awareness or knowledge individuals have when it comes to cybersecurity.

In essence, the impact of the cyber skills shortage will be lessened by bridging the cyber skills gap.

Bridging this gap not only makes things a bit easier in terms of the shortage but it also creates an environment that fosters learning and growth for new entrants and those seeking to cross-skill within the cybersecurity field, including minorities and underrepresented groups. Unfortunately, many hiring organisations are reluctant to invest in creating such inclusive environments, often opting for the most “experienced” individuals on paper who are viewed as immediately able to contribute. This approach further restricts the available talent pool.

Furthermore, establishing a robust cybersecurity culture necessitates the active participation of every individual within an organisation, transcending the exclusive responsibility of dedicated cybersecurity staff. Alarming statistics from the UK reveal that a significant majority of hybrid (82%), in-office (84%), and remote (85%) workers do not consistently make security-conscious choices. Additionally, over one-fifth (21%) of full-time office workers do not feel accountable for their company's cybersecurity.

Fixing the Gap

Addressing the scarcity of cybersecurity professionals and skills requires a two-pronged approach: augmenting the existing workforce's awareness of digital threats and cultivating a security-conscious mindset. By instilling the necessary knowledge and awareness across the workforce, organisations can not only relieve some pressure on the security department but also create a dependable human firewall.

Achieving this goal involves a strategic focus on psychological and behavioural aspects of the workforce. By recalibrating the workforce's mindset and providing targeted education on cyber risks, organisations can lay the foundation for increased interest in cybersecurity as a potential profession. This includes guidance on online safety, recognising phishing red flags, and fostering improved overall security habits.

Long-term impacts of training

As these awareness efforts impact individuals, they become standard-setters, triggering a positive chain reaction where others naturally observe and adopt secure behaviours. Engaging and tailored security awareness training further reinforces these behaviours, enhancing information retention and fortifying the organisation's security culture.

While the changes may initially be subtle, research underscores the effectiveness of security awareness training techniques, such as simulated phishing, in creating a resilient human firewall. Elevating the overall security education of staff members not only empowers them to make informed security decisions but also reduces the organisation's potential risk. Additionally, it eases the burden on understaffed and under-resourced security departments.

In this process, regular staff members may evolve into 'security champions,' potentially addressing the shortage of cybersecurity skills. This paradigm shift can lead to an improved organisational security posture and a more sustainable approach to bridging the cybersecurity skills gap.