Navigating the Unknown: Taking on Cybersecurity Responsibilities at Work

Embarking on a new professional journey can be both exciting and daunting, especially when unexpected responsibilities come into play. Recently, I started a new role where I anticipated contributing to technology-related tasks. However, it didn’t take long for me to discover that I was also entrusted with managing cybersecurity—an area in which I have minimal experience and no formal training.

Upon joining the company, I quickly realized that there was no established cybersecurity protocol in place. In fact, this vital aspect of operations was largely overlooked prior to my arrival. What makes the situation even more pressing is that our organization is on the brink of increased exposure in the industry, and there’s a clear urgency to prepare for this shift. While a security consultant is in the pipeline to help us fortify our defenses, the goal is to not be entirely bewildered when that time comes.

So, faced with such a significant responsibility and limited knowledge, where does one even begin?

The first step is to understand the initial landscape of our cybersecurity posture. Familiarizing myself with basic concepts, key terminology, and common threats will provide a solid foundation. There are ample resources available online, including government websites and reputable cybersecurity blogs that provide valuable insights on best practices.

Additionally, I plan to engage my colleagues to gauge their familiarity with the existing systems and processes. Building a collaborative approach can uncover hidden assets or strengths within the team, and together, we can identify the areas that require immediate attention.

While the road ahead may seem overwhelming, I’m committed to learning as much as possible and taking proactive steps to safeguard our organization. I might not have the credentials of an experienced security professional, but with determination and a willingness to embrace this new challenge, I believe I can help lead us in the right direction.

Thank you to everyone who has offered advice along the way. With your support, I feel much more equipped to tackle this endeavor. Here’s to navigating the world of cybersecurity together!