INTELLIGENT BRANDS // Enterprise Security

)², one of the world ' s largest non-profit associations of certified cybersecurity professionals – has highlighted a stark increase in the shortage of cybersecurity professionals as it announced the findings of its 2022 ( ISC )² Cybersecurity Workforce Study .

The study reveals the global cybersecurity workforce is at an all-time high , with an estimated 4.7 million professionals . Despite adding 464,000 more cybersecurity professionals this year , the data revealed that 3.4 million more cybersecurity workers are needed to secure assets effectively .

A total of 70 % of respondents report their organization does not have enough cybersecurity employees . And more than half of respondents with workforce shortages feel that staff deficits put their organization at a ‘ moderate ’ or ‘ extreme ’ risk of a cyberattack .

For organizations looking to mitigate staff shortages , the research suggests that initiatives to train internal talent , rotating job assignments , mentorship programs and encouraging employees outside of IT or the security team to join the field , were the most effective . the next 12 months – the highest predicted growth rate when compared to the last two years ( 53 % in 2021 and 41 % in 2020 ).

“ As a result of geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic instability , alongside highprofile data breaches and growing physical security challenges , there is a greater focus on cybersecurity and increasing demand for professionals within the field ,” said Clar Rosso , CEO , ( ISC )².

“ The study shows us that retaining and attracting strong talent is more important than ever . Professionals are saying loud and clear that corporate culture , experience , training and education investment and mentorship are paramount to keeping your team motivated , engaged and effective .”

The study takes a closer look at cultural and demographic shifts over the last year . In addition to an analysis of the changing workforce , the study also highlights the top issues with retention , concerning workplace conditions such as burnout , the shift of racial , gender and ethnic diversity among younger cybersecurity professionals , the changing perception of certifications in the field , as well as the impacts from current events and future predictions of the cybersecurity workforce . Key findings include :

Corporate Culture

• 75 % of respondents report strong job satisfaction and the same percentage feel passionate about cybersecurity work , yet 70 % of respondents still feel overworked

• 68 % of employees with low employee experience ratings indicate workplace culture impacts their effectiveness in responding to security incidents

• Over half of workers say they would consider switching jobs if they are no longer allowed to work remotely

• Just 28 % of study participants report their organization actively listens and values the input of all staff p

At the same time , the report finds that 72 % of respondents expect their cybersecurity staff to increase somewhat or significantly within

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