Leaders learn how to collaborate and seek help

Hardly a day goes by without a report of a major cyber security threat or incident. Most businesses know it’s a matter of when not if they will face a cyber security incident, and that risk is increasing exponentially as companies embrace digital transformation strategies. These pressures have made cyber security leaders much more prominent. Once seen as back-room technical specialists, they are now expected to be strategic advisers to the C-suite and board.

They often carry the weight of responsibility for cyber breaches on their shoulders, even though they may have no direct authority to control all the risks. This puts them in the unenviable position of being the scapegoat when the company suffers a cyber breach.

It’s a volatile industry and Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), are often transitioning from their roles, either voluntarily due to reduced sponsorship within their programs, or more recently, because they have been laid off. Michael Piacente is known as the “CISO Whisperer,” because he is committed to helping cybersecurity leaders succeed. He understands how important it is to build relationships with cybersecurity leaders as they transition in their careers.

What sets Michael and his team apart from other recruitment agencies is their genuine commitment to building relationships with cybersecurity leaders at a time when they are at their most vulnerable. He understands the difficulties they face and aims to guide them through this challenging journey. A key piece of Michael’s advice is to encourage CISOs to tap into their networks.

Michael’s advice emphasises the importance of CISOs being known for their specific expertise. He has found that by mastering an aspect of their field, leaders can set themselves apart and become known as thought leaders. He says it’s about showcasing their deep expertise through a megaphone to gain recognition as a true authority.

In a rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, Michael Piacente’s guidance and mentorship provide CISOs with the tools they need to stand out, build meaningful relationships, and advance their careers. His commitment to helping these leaders find their superpower and confidently navigate the job market is a testament to his dedication to their success.

These leadership insights from Michael Piacente are outlined in more detail in the new book, which Dean Phelan and I co-authored – The Gentle Art of Leadership. The perspectives we gathered from our interviews with 50+ leaders from around the globe and the original research we drew on, form the basis of the book.

🙋‍♀️ Where have you benefited from seeking help from your network? 🙋

Best regards, Brian

PS: Find your superpower in the Personality and Behaving Transactionally Program.