In the face of escalating cyber threats, the demand for proficient cybersecurity professionals has reached unprecedented levels. The skills gap isn’t just a numerical disparity; it signifies a significant weakness in the defense systems of businesses and institutions. Ranging from deficiencies in critical areas like penetration testing and threat analysis to broader concerns about workforce diversity and ongoing skill enhancement, the factors contributing to this gap are both diverse and intricate. 

Contained within this article are excerpts from the 2023 skills gap surveys we reviewed. These insights provide your organization with crucial data to enhance its cybersecurity hiring strategy. 

1. Cloud Skills Gap: A Barrier to Digital Transformation

Outlook: IT decision-makers express confidence in improving the cloud skills gap, with 87% anticipating positive changes in the next five years. 

2. Evolving Entry-Level Cybersecurity Jobs

Redefining Requirements: Companies shift focus to hands-on experience (97%), credentials (88%), and completion of cybersecurity training courses (83%) as crucial indicators of a candidate’s qualifications. 

3. Discontent Amid Cybersecurity Skills Shortage

Impact on Organizations: A substantial 71% of organizations feel the strain of the cybersecurity skills shortage, leading to increased workloads (61%), unfilled job requisitions (49%), and heightened staff burnout (43%). 

4. Layoffs and Skills Gaps in Cybersecurity

Layoff Impact: Organizations experiencing cybersecurity layoffs (51%) report more significant skills gaps compared to those without layoffs (39%). 

5. Soft Skills Challenges in Cybersecurity

Seeking Soft Skills: Employers prioritize communication (58%), critical thinking (54%), problem-solving (49%), teamwork (45%), and attention to detail (36%) in cybersecurity job candidates. 

6. Unrealistic Expectations in Cybersecurity Talent Search

Consumer Perceptions: Limited exposure, the emphasis on a 4-year degree, and insufficient education contribute to the cybersecurity talent shortage, as agreed upon by 72% of consumers. 

7. Surge in STEM Training Demand

STEM Enrollment Growth: US learners show a 22% increase in STEM course enrollments, with 41% from women. Entry-level STEM Professional Certificates witness a 47% growth, reaching 740,000 enrollments. 

8. Prioritizing Tech Skills Development in Uncertain Times

Organizational Strategies: Despite cost-cutting pressures, 72% of tech team leaders plan to increase investment in tech skill development in 2023, with 97% prioritizing internal talent over external hires. 

9. Cybersecurity Challenges for Mid-Sized Businesses

Expertise and Plans: 61% of mid-sized businesses lack dedicated cybersecurity experts, and only 9% claim adherence to security best practices, revealing gaps in training and recruitment. 

10. Prolonged Delays in Filling Critical Security Positions

Hiring Challenges: Companies face prolonged delays (70%) in filling cybersecurity roles, with 82% reporting a three-month or longer timeline, and 34% facing delays of seven months or more.