Navigating Uncharted Territory: My First Experience with Cybersecurity Management

Stepping into a new role can be exhilarating, but what happens when unexpected responsibilities come knocking on your door? Recently, I found myself in this very situation when I started a new job. Although the interview discussed my potential to contribute to computer-related tasks, I never anticipated that I would be tasked with overseeing the company’s cybersecurity efforts without prior formal training or experience.

The Challenge Ahead

To my surprise, I have discovered that there are hardly any established protocols in place at the company. In fact, it appears that there hasn’t been anyone dedicated to managing cybersecurity until now. While the organization is not currently under heavy scrutiny, we are gearing up for future visibility and seeking to enhance our security posture in advance of that attention.

Preparing for a Consultant

Although we plan to hire a security consultant in the near future, there’s a concern that we won’t be taken seriously when we bring in an expert. This means I hold the responsibility of establishing some foundational practices to ensure that we can onboard a consultant with a clear direction and a sense of preparedness.

Where Do I Begin?

This question looms large in my mind: where do I even start with cybersecurity management? With no certifications to lean on and an overwhelming amount of information available, I’m left contemplating the best approach to take in navigating this complex arena.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the uncertainty, I am motivated to take on this challenge. I’m reaching out to online communities and resources, looking for guidance and practical advice to build my knowledge. Thankfully, I’ve received a wealth of supportive suggestions from fellow professionals, which gives me reassurance that I can indeed manage this responsibility.

As I embark on this journey, I remain optimistic about gaining the skills necessary to protect our organization while preparing for our future consultant. In this ever-evolving digital landscape, I am excited to learn and adapt, one step at a time.

Stay tuned for updates on my progress!