Reference no: EM132243266

Cybersecurity is known to have a shortage, according to a Forbes article from Brian NeSmith there will be as many as 3.5 million unfilled positions in the industry by 2021. (2018). It is important to promote cybersecurity as well as create programs and broaden the search for such professionals.

It is very difficult from my experience to get a role in cybersecurity, requirements are for Sr. roles, and expectations in knowledge and tools is very high and precise. New talent often finds themselves in a catch-22 (dilemma) where they have the proper education, certifications but without the years of experience, therefore they can't get a career opportunity.

NeSmith gives a great point, organizations should broaden their range of candidates and if they're smart, collaborative and like to solve problems, it might make sense to consider their potential. (2018).

ISACA provides 5 steps that can help organizations maximize their talent.

1. Staff rotation and cross training: not all positions are interesting and some change very little on the day today. Job rotation and cross training help share the load among the team and builds a very well talented team creating a variety of skill throughout the team. (ISACA, 2016).

2. Clear career tracks: Provide confidence in the team about their advancement in their career, this will decrease anxiety with respects to their future, and increase job retention.

3. Individual development: Create training opportunities for employees to keep their skills fresh and updated, this is more than sending them on a once a year convention.

4. Measure at department level: Keeping some metrics about employee satisfaction, retention, and so forth can be extremely beneficial. (ISACA, 2016).

5. Alternative work arrangements: Provide some alternative work arrangement allowing employees to work remotely at times.