“I Know a Guy”: The Cybersecurity Edition Every CEO Needs to Bookmark
In the colorful tapestry of business jargon, there’s a phrase that stands out for its universal nod of understanding – “I Know a Guy.” It’s the business world’s equivalent of a magic spell, conjuring experts from thin air for every conceivable need. Web design? “I know a guy.” Auto repair? “Got a guy for that too.” But as we wade deeper into the digital age, there’s one question that’s starting to echo louder in boardrooms across the globe:
Who’s your cybersecurity “go-to” person?
Yes, amidst the sea of ‘guys’ for every job under the sun, the real MVP in today’s business playbook is the cybersecurity expert. In an era where digital threats loom larger than ever, having a cybersecurity maestro on speed dial isn’t just advisable; it’s imperative.
But Here’s the Million-Dollar Question for CEOs and CFOs:
How do you measure their success? Is it the absence of breaches? What is the speed of response when the digital sirens sound? Or is it something more quantifiable?
Enter the Realm of KPIs:
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are your best friends here. They’re the compass that guides your cybersecurity strategy, ensuring you’re not just throwing punches in the dark. But what makes a good cybersecurity KPI?
- Breach Response Time: Time is of the essence. How quickly can your ‘guy’ or team spring into action when a breach is detected?
- Phishing Test Scores: Conduct regular phishing simulations. How many in your team take the bait? Improvement over time is a good indicator of growing awareness and resilience.
- Patch Management Efficiency: Vulnerabilities are like open doors to cybercriminals. How swiftly does your team close these doors with patches and updates?
- Incident Reports Analysis: Not all incidents escalate to disasters, but each offers a learning opportunity. How effectively is this data used to fortify your defenses?
The Harsh Truth:
If you’re at the helm of a business and can’t pinpoint who your cybersecurity guardian is or how their success is quantified, then brace yourself. You’re sailing in treacherous waters without a lifejacket. The digital domain is unforgiving, and the cost of negligence can be your company’s very existence.
A Parting Thought:
Just like you wouldn’t skimp on the best “guy” for your golf clubs or your car’s tires, don’t cut corners on your cybersecurity lead. In a world where digital bandits are constantly sharpening their blades, your cybersecurity “guy” isn’t just a part of your team; they’re the shield that guards the realms of your business.
Remember, in the grand chess game of cybersecurity, it’s better to be a grandmaster than a pawn. Equip your business with the right people, arm them with measurable goals, and maybe you’ll sleep a little easier at night.
Till next time, keep your digital gates guarded and your KPIs closer.
P.S. If this missive struck a chord, why keep the good vibes to yourself? Share it with fellow business leaders, CFOs, and anyone who stands at the helm of steering a business through the digital squalls. Encourage them to subscribe for more insights, tips, and tales from the cyber frontlines. Together, we’re not just building businesses; we’re fortifying them against the unseen battles of the digital age. Spread the word, subscribe, and let’s turn the tides in our favor.
Stay safe, stay savvy.
Repost from LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/i-know-guy-cybersecurity-edition-every-ceo-needs-mike-fitzpatrick-zzcmf/