Leadership & Executive Communication
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Training & Security Leadership
Tips on Relationships and Empathy That CISOs Should Know Before the Next Crisis
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A long time ago, while sitting in my first set of formal leadership courses for my doctoral program, I remember thinking, “Now THAT is the type of leader I don’t want to be!” We discussed the experiences of others in the class, and many were negative. As a teacher, I know we get more of what we focus on, so I shifted my thinking.
What type of leader did I want to be? How could I get there? Over time, I learned that being a transformational leader with high levels of emotional intelligence, or EI, is not just desirable. It is an essential skill for leaders, especially in high-stakes environments like cybersecurity.
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What Is Emotional Intelligence?
EI is the ability to recognize, understand, manage and influence both your own emotions and those of others. It encompasses five key areas: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy and social skills. These components enable leaders to build trust, make thoughtful decisions and manage team dynamics effectively.
Self-awareness is foundational for cybersecurity leaders. In an environment where rapid decision-making is critical, understanding one’s emotional triggers helps leaders stay calm and make rational choices. Leaders who are self-aware model emotional regulation for their teams, creating a stable environment even in the midst of a ransomware attack.
Empathy is equally important. Cybersecurity leaders who empathize with their team members can address emotional stress, provide meaningful support during tough situations and foster trust. When team members feel understood and supported, they’re more likely to stay engaged and motivated, which is crucial when defending against persistent cyberthreats.
Interpersonal skills enable leaders to manage relationships across departments and with external stakeholders. Effective communication, conflict resolution and team coordination are all enhanced by strong EI. A cybersecurity leader who fosters collaboration and transparency can lead more effectively during incidents, ensuring that everyone is aligned and working toward a common goal.
Resiliency is a key trait for leadership in any field, but in cybersecurity, it’s particularly vital. Resilient leaders can bounce back from failures or setbacks, quickly adapt to changing threats, and inspire their teams to do the same. EI helps develop this resilience by encouraging leaders to reflect on their experiences, learn from them and approach challenges with a positive, solution-oriented mindset.
In high-pressure fields such as cybersecurity, EI drastically affects how well leaders can move teams through complex, stressful situations from cyberattacks to staffing shortages. A leader with strong EI is better equipped to stay composed under pressure, foster collaboration and inspire loyalty, all of which are crucial for achieving positive outcomes in such a critical situation.
How to Develop Your EI Skills
Developing EI is a lifelong journey, but you can follow these practical steps to strengthen your emotional intelligence skills:
- Reflect: Regularly assess your emotional responses and triggers, and think about how they impact your ability to lead. Journaling, mindfulness practices or feedback from trusted colleagues can be powerful tools for increasing self-awareness.
- Seek feedback: Constructive feedback from your team and peers can give insight into how your emotional intelligence affects those around you. Use this feedback to identify areas for improvement and strengthen your emotional regulation and empathy.
- Get Training: Participate in leadership development programs or workshops focused on emotional intelligence. These programs often provide structured techniques for improving communication, empathy and conflict resolution, all of which are valuable for cybersecurity leaders.
- Practice empathy: Make a conscious effort to understand the emotional states of your team members and respond with compassion. Developing this skill can transform team dynamics, especially during crises.
- Lead by example: Incorporate EI into daily practices, such as managing stress in high-pressure situations, fostering open communication and addressing interpersonal conflicts promptly and empathetically.
As cybersecurity challenges grow in both scale and complexity, emotionally intelligent leadership can foster a positive, productive work environment. Be prepared to take on the challenges that lie ahead.