Beyond technicalities: the value of a great communicator
The need for soft-skills alongside technical acumen in the Cyber security sector.
Despite the image of cyber security professionals as aloof, insular secret agents; too busy saving the world one security issue at a time for anything else, the reality is far different.
Ok those exceptional specialist skills are vital, but just as important are the soft skills that mean our candidates are real people able to flex, change and work with others as needed. Below are some essential skills and qualities to consider when recruiting in this dynamic sector.
Strong Communication Skills
Effective communication skills are crucial for cyber security employees in all areas of their role, requiring them to
- Convey complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams
- Articulate security risks and recommendations
- Produce clear documents and reports
Look for
Candidates who can communicate clearly and confidently through written reports, presentations, and interpersonal interactions.
Analytical Thinking and Problem-Solving Abilities
At risk of stating the obvious, professionals working in cyber security need strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills in order to
- Identify security threats
- Evaluate and assess data
- Analyse data breaches
- Develop innovative solutions to protect systems and networks
Look for
Candidates who can analyse complex information, think critically, and apply logical reasoning to troubleshoot security issues effectively.
Attention to Detail
It can’t be stressed enough that attention to detail is paramount in cyber security! Candidates will need to be sharp enough to
- Detect and analyse security vulnerabilities
- Identify anomalies in network traffic and system behaviour
- Ensure compliance with security policies and regulations
Look for
Candidates who demonstrate a meticulous approach to their work, with a focus on accuracy in identifying and addressing security risks.
Integrity
A hugely important skill, with professionals often handling sensitive information and access to critical systems and data. Professional and ethical integrity are demonstrated in
- Strong ethical principles
- Ability to be assertive and honest
- Advocacy for ‘the common good’ and public safety
- Commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and confidentiality
Look for
Thorough background and reference checks that verify candidates’ integrity. Candidates that align with your organisation’s values and ethical standards.
Teamwork
Cyber security professionals often work collaboratively with teams involved in IT, compliance, legal and business. You are on to a winner if they can demonstrate
- Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
- Ability to build relationships
- Effective communication with a wide range of people
- Collaborative work towards common goals
Look for
Candidates who can effectively collaborate with diverse teams, share knowledge and expertise, and contribute to an organisational culture of collaboration and information-sharing.
Adaptability
The cyber security landscape is constantly evolving, with new threats and technologies emerging frequently. The following attributes demonstrate the adaptability needed to succeed in the sector.
- Innovative thinking around new threats and challenges
- Flexible in their approach to work
- Willingness to learn and stay updated on the latest cyber security trends, tools, and best practices
Look for
Candidates who pursue professional development opportunities (certifications, training courses) and participate in industry conferences and workshops.
Seeking these soft skills alongside technical competencies will help to identify top tier candidates equipped to excel in cyber security roles, making a huge contribution to protecting organisations from security threats.