Is your team ready to tackle cyber threats? It’s time to get them risk-ready with top training. Discover the various cyber training options available – these can enhance your employees’ cyber awareness and skills.
If you’ve been following our blog, you might recall our recent discussion on why employee training is crucial for cybersecurity. Essentially, your staff are your first line of defence. They’re well-positioned to spot new risks as they arise, but they need to be able to respond swiftly when those risks escalate into real threats. Training your employees – and keeping that training up-to-date – is undoubtedly one of the most critical steps you can take to safeguard your organisation. So what options do you have for training, and which are best suited for your team? Join us as we explore!
Types of cyber training
As you may know, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to staff training, especially in the realm of cybersecurity. Here’s a quick look at some of the different options you might want to consider:
1. Text-based documents
While documents are often seen as the least engaging form of training, they definitely have their place. The beauty of written materials is that they’re really easy to access as needed, and can be referred to whenever an employee needs a quick refresher. However, it’s important to keep in mind that large blocks of text can lead to reader fatigue. At Reliable, we recommend micro-learning, where information is broken down into bite-sized pieces so individuals can learn in quick five-minute increments. Check out our Cybersecurity A-Z as a perfect example of a micro-learning resource.
2. Gamification
Gamification adds an exciting layer to learning by transforming cyber awareness into a game. Whether through quizzes, puzzles, contests, or anything else, gamification encourages employees to use their knowledge to complete lighthearted tasks and brainteasers, and earn rewards along the way. You might even decide to introduce a bit of healthy competition, inviting staff to beat their own records, or complete challenges faster than ever before. The more employees engage with these games, the more ingrained their learning becomes, helping turn it into second nature.
3. Simulated experiences
One of the biggest downsides of traditional cyber training is that it often remains theoretical. Employees learn what to do in hypothetical scenarios rather than practising those skills in real-life situations. This is where simulated training experiences come in handy. Cyber experts can replicate authentic hacking events – safely and ethically – within your own workplace environment, enabling employees to use their skills in a realistic context. If you’re unsure about this form of training, we’ve answered all your top phishing simulation questions so you know exactly what to expect on the day!
4. Workshops
In-person workshops continue to hold value in the cyber training landscape. There’s something so beneficial about being in the same room as cyber professionals who are dedicated to fostering learning and skills development. The advantage of workshops is that trainers can adapt on the spot to meet individual needs. They also provide ample opportunities for employees to ask questions, and take training at a pace that suits them. While it may be a more traditional method than other options listed here, it’s still one of the best ways to share knowledge with employees and help them develop.
So… what method is best?
At Reliable, we believe that while employee training is important, continuous training is crucial. The cybersecurity landscape evolves rapidly, and it’s essential to ensure staff stay up-to-date on the latest risks, guidelines, and processes for staying safe. This means employees will likely encounter a lot of training, so offering a range of cyber training formats can keep everyone engaged.
Variety keeps training interesting. We don’t think it’s possible to highlight one particular method as superior; rather, a combination of these approaches creates a comprehensive training programme that keeps everyone involved. Need help creating such a programme? Get in touch! At Reliable, we can work with you to train your staff effectively, equipping them with the skills to manage threats with ease.
