'The data should be a wake-up call': Report finds cybersecurity workers feel underpaid, undervalued and overstressed — and that's putting everyone at risk
Cybersecurity workers are among the most affected by AI impact on jobsIncreased pressure and unsuitably low salaries are putting workers offMany wouldn't even consider a role that's not flexible or hybrid
The latest Global Tech Talent & Salary Report from Harvey Nash claims while AI and data skills are now the most in-demand globally, as companies look to hire new AI engineers, existing cybersecurity workers are being put under undue stress.
With companies struggling to find suitable candidates with the right AI tools experience, they're hiring underskilled workers and upping the pressure on existing teams to plug the gaps.
Cybersecurity workers are among those highlighted in the report as being under the most stress, with budget constraints limiting how far companies can compete on pay.
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Companies are pushing cybersecurity workers to the max
According to the data, many companies lack confidence in their ability to respond to incidents effectively, while the ineffective hires of less-experienced candidates isn't doing anything to help the already-stretched existing workforce.
On top of the skills shortages, hybrid working has now become a standard that workers expect and demand, with flexibility no longer seen as a perk.
"When pay lags the market, workload keeps rising, and the role is seen as a blocker rather than an enabler, it’s no surprise that attrition starts to look like the path of least resistance," Harvey Nash CIO Ankur Anand explained.
When it comes to losing existing talent, pay is still the biggest factor, but career progression and company culture are still influential drivers in pushing workers away from their roles. Compensation remains the key attraction for new job transfers too, but flexibility comes in second place ahead of career progression and culture. Around half (52%) of UK respondents said they would no longer consider jobs that don't accept hybrid working.
Looking ahead, Harvey Nash sees the problem as a system issue caused by education, training and demand – not a temporary hurdle – highlighting the need for companies to refocus on job satisfaction and support.
"Tech professionals are looking to their leaders with an expectation of clear strategic direction, fair reward, flexible approaches to working, and a supportive environment in which they can build fulfilling careers," CEO Simon Crichton concluded.
