Cyber Hiring Trends in 2024: The impact of flexible working models on cyber security
As we plough on through 2024, hiring trends are continuing to change and evolve at a dizzying speed. We speak with hiring managers in the cyber sector every day, and we have summarised some of the key considerations for hiring in this space below for you.
Security Risks & Protocols
Flexible working is wonderful for allowing teams to pick up and chip in wherever they may be, but from a dodgy network in a coffee shop to a set of eyes on the screen over the shoulder, there’s far greater risk of security slips outside of the office. The solution is to establish clear protocols, rules and guidelines, and ensure the tech provides support too, in the form of VPNs, multi-factor authentication and encryption.
Remote Access Infrastructure
Having laptops and work IP on the move can be very enabling, but it can also create opportunity for issues. A wayward laptop without a password, weak passwords, important documents baked into a single inaccessible machine. We’ve all seen the politicians snapped on the train with confidential documents clearly on show, and the electronic equivalent is an ever-present risk in the modern day. We suggest machines with biometric access enabled; strengthened by the use of remote terminal-servers, VPNs and similar tech to keep your important data locked in a single location.
Monitoring and Incident Response
The larger an organisation grows, the wider its digital footprint, and capacity for risk. We suggest considering the use of a robust monitoring and incident response mechanism to detect and respond to cybersecurity incidents in real-time. You might also consider security information and event management (SIEM) systems, intrusion detection / prevention systems (IDS / IPS) and security analytics tools to monitor remote access activity and identify potential security breaches.
Employee Training and Awareness
A regular schedule of employee training is likely to go some distance to entrenching those positive habits around the importance of personal ownership around cybersecurity. A huge number of issues are caused by user error, weak passwords, clumsy laptop losses etc. We can all see how these things might happen, but with robust training, it is likely that these are habits we can rule out.
By addressing these areas of consideration, organisations can make great leaps in managing the risk profile that comes about through the combination of flexible working and cyber security concerns.
The Importance of Communication When Working Remotely
In recent years, remote work has transformed the way businesses operate. With the rise of technology and the global connectivity of the internet, working from home or other remote locations has become a viable option for many professionals. However, while remote work offers numerous advantages, it also comes with its unique challenges, with effective communication being a critical component for success.
1. **Maintaining Team Cohesion**: In a remote work environment, team members are often physically separated, making it crucial to maintain strong team cohesion. Effective communication fosters a sense of belonging, trust, and camaraderie among team members. Regular video conferences, team chats, and project management tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams can bridge the gap, ensuring everyone stays connected.
2. **Clear Expectations and Accountability**: Remote work can blur the lines between work and personal life, leading to potential misunderstandings and missed deadlines. Clear communication of expectations and responsibilities is essential to ensure everyone is on the same page. Setting clear goals, deadlines, and using tools like Asana or Trello can help keep tasks organised and team members accountable.
3. **Reducing Isolation**: Working remotely can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, which can affect productivity and job satisfaction. Encouraging open communication channels through daily check-ins and virtual water cooler chats can help combat this isolation. Teams should have a dedicated space for casual conversations, just as they would in a physical office.
4. **Conflict Resolution**: Conflicts can arise in any workplace, and in remote settings, these conflicts can fester if not addressed promptly. Effective communication helps identify and resolve conflicts, ensuring that they don’t escalate. Encourage team members to voice their concerns, and use video calls or mediation tools to facilitate discussions.
5. **Professional Development**: In a remote work environment, opportunities for spontaneous learning and mentorship are reduced. However, through effective communication, employees can still seek guidance, ask questions, and participate in online training programs. Tools like Zoom or Skype can facilitate virtual mentorship sessions and knowledge sharing.
In conclusion, effective communication is the bedrock of successful remote work. It not only ensures that tasks are completed efficiently but also fosters a sense of connection and belonging among team members. With the right tools and a commitment to transparent and open communication, remote teams can thrive. By prioritising communication, businesses can overcome the challenges of remote work and unlock its vast potential.