Educating end users on the importance of security within your organization is an up-hill battle for most small businesses. Ask an IT professional how effective their training processes are and you’re sure to get a mixed bag of responses.

Some things work for some people and don’t for others.

Mandatory, irregular IT security training seminars don’t always make a connection. Hosting half day or day long training sessions can bore people to death and cut into your bottom line by pulling employees away from their workstations for an extended period. It security training Presentations need to walk a fine line between presenting hard policies and detailing the repercussions of violation while being lighthearted and keeping the room interactive.

Are you worried your IT security training isn’t hitting the right cord with your employees? Here are a few tips.

The Traditional Approach to IT Security Training Works for Some

In a securityintelligence.com article, the author ran a security awareness training program for the government, ensuring 2,000 employees spread across multiple locations received mandatory training classes.

The effectiveness of the IT security training program was highly dependent on the work environment where it was presented. Users at the home office felt a much higher level of ownership than those at remote locations and tended to take policies to heart. It makes sense as those wearing suits at Wal Mart’s corporate office would likely pay greater attention to such a presentation than store employees – and their level of engagement would also likely vary by store location.

Company size also plays a big factor in how users engage with IT security training. At smaller organizations, it’s much easier to get employees on board with security, because they’re easier to track and may feel a greater importance in ensuring success of the business.

 

Make IT Security Training Ongoing, Fun & Even a Little Weird

Small reminders go a long way in ensuring your front lines are protected. Online modules and shorter, more regular lunch and learns can help employees remain mindful of how important they are to IT.

Some companies have even gone down the path of posting flyers on data security policies in bathroom stalls to better educate end users. It’s well known that the bathroom makes for an ideal reading environment in the workplace.

Reward Employees for Following Through

Phony phishing tests can help you understand what your employees really know about cyber security. Reward any employees who catch on and alert HR or IT with an extra vacation day and sit down with any employee who falls for the trap.

Make Security Part of Your Company Culture

Your organization must have a strong security culture to spark employee engagement, and that starts at the top of your organization. IT security training should be continuous and tailored to the unique needs of your company. Training is a great place to spend extra dollars lying around in the IT budget if you’re unsure of how to allocate them. Understand your employees are on the front lines and make sure they know how important their role is defending them.

Work with an Established IT Consultant to Review Your IT Security Training Program

Whether you are currently educating employees on the importance of information security or don’t know where to start, ThrottleNet can help you take control of your technology. Learn more about our IT consulting services, managed network program and the wide range of solutions we offer for business. Start today.