Adapting hybrid skills for the future: Need for upskilling and cross-skilling amongst cybersecurity professionals
In the rapidly evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the critical need for professionals to possess hybrid skills has never been more pronounced. The relentless sophistication of cyber threats demands that our professionals harness hybrid skills, making the need for upskilling and cross-skilling more urgent than ever. There is a need to look at the importance of adapting to future challenges, advocating for a workforce that is not only equipped to combat current threats but is also future-ready.
Navigating Dynamic Cyber Threats
The nature of cyber threats has undergone a significant shift, prompting cybersecurity professionals to venture into uncharted territories. Defence mechanisms once deemed robust now prove insufficient in the face of intricate and evolving challenges. Cybersecurity experts, traditionally specialized in specific domains, find themselves at a crossroads. The call is not just for adaptation but an evolution, extending expertise into realms like application security, cloud security, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The interconnected nature of these technologies demands a holistic approach, where professionals can adapt their skills to address vulnerabilities across diverse platforms.
Fusion of Technical and Soft Skills: A Strategic Blend
At this crucial juncture, a fusion of technical expertise and soft skills, such as communication and adaptability, is not just beneficial; it is necessary for the continued success and resilience of our cybersecurity efforts. Upskilling involves deepening expertise in one’s current domain, while cross-skilling entails acquiring proficiency in areas outside one’s primary field of expertise. In the context of cybersecurity, professionals must not only enhance their technical abilities but also cultivate soft skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with stakeholders. The ability to convey complex technical concepts to non-technical decision-makers is becoming increasingly vital as cybersecurity becomes an integral component of overall business strategy.
The rapid integration of technology into various industries has made cybersecurity everyone’s concern. Therefore, cybersecurity professionals must not only protect systems but also engage with other departments to create a culture of security awareness. Cross-skilling in areas such as risk management, legal compliance, and incident response is crucial for cybersecurity experts to comprehend the broader implications of their work and align their efforts with organizational goals.
Building a Future-Ready Workforce: Responding to Global Demand
The urgency of upskilling and cross-skilling is further underscored by the shortage of skilled cybersecurity professionals. In the post-pandemic years, the digital transformation across industries has resulted in a massive demand for cybersecurity professionals with the right skills. As per estimates, there are over 5.4 million cybersecurity professionals currently globally, and there are nearly 4 million job openings in the field. In fact, 67% of cybersecurity professionals have reported that their organizations face a shortage of adequately skilled personnel to secure their digital infrastructure.
Even in India, where digital infrastructure has grown by leaps and bounds in the last two years, there is a major need to train more people on cutting-edge cybersecurity practices. As organizations struggle to fill critical cybersecurity roles, existing professionals must take the initiative to expand their skill sets. Training programs, certifications, and continuous learning opportunities can empower cybersecurity experts to bridge the gap between their current knowledge and the ever-evolving threat landscape. Tech enterprises such as Cisco and Deloitte have recognized this need, initiating comprehensive training programs to bridge the skills gap. In September 2023, FutureSkills Prime, a joint initiative between NASSCOM and MeitY (Government of India), have come together to provide cybersecurity reskilling and upskilling trainings to cater to the growing demand for professionals in the arena in India.
In conclusion, as cyber threats evolve, so must the skills of cybersecurity professionals. Embracing change brings unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through upskilling and cross-skilling, we can forge a resilient, future-ready workforce leading in cybersecurity excellence. Adapting hybrid skills is no longer optional but a necessity for the dynamic future. By embracing this imperative transformation, individuals and organizations can construct a robust defence against the ever-evolving challenges of the digital age.
The author, Nandini Tandon, is Co-Founder and Chief People Officer at Indusface.
Nandini Tandon / nandini.tandon@indusface.com
