The CISO’s next priority isn’t technology, it’s building a great employee experience

In the world of cybersecurity, the focus has traditionally been on technology and tools. However, there is a growing recognition that building a positive employee experience (EX) is just as important. EX refers to the way employees interpret and internalize their interactions with an organization, and it encompasses concepts such as well-being, inclusion, and creating psychologically safe spaces.

The shift towards prioritizing EX is happening alongside the rise of cybersecurity automation, which involves using real-time detection, rapid response, and proactive defense tools to protect against evolving threats. While automation is a relatively new part of cybersecurity, interest is quickly increasing as organizations realize the need to operate at cloud-level scale and machine learning speed. However, measuring the return on investment (ROI) of security automation has been challenging.

In a recent survey of 750 senior cybersecurity professionals, ThreatQuotient found that employee satisfaction and retention have become the main metrics for assessing cybersecurity automation ROI for over 60% of respondents. This indicates a shift towards using automation to make the analyst’s job easier and more enjoyable, rather than just focusing on technical and security protection measures.

The desire to improve employee satisfaction and reduce churn is not limited to the cybersecurity field. Companies across multiple industries are actively seeking to boost employee well-being and create a more supportive work environment. Security leaders are also prioritizing learning and development for their teams, as well as offering support for hybrid working, diversity, and flexibility around parenting.

The shift towards prioritizing EX in cybersecurity also raises questions for security product vendors. Should they incorporate the human benefits of their solutions into their product design and messaging? The answer is likely yes, as ignoring the people side of the business could have serious consequences. The UK is already facing a cybersecurity skills gap, and addressing the EX could help attract and retain more professionals in the field.

In conclusion, the future of cybersecurity is not just about technology and tools; it’s also about creating a positive employee experience. This shift requires organizations to prioritize employee satisfaction, well-being, and development, and for security product vendors to consider the human benefits of their solutions.