How SMEs Can Benefit by Recruiting Cyber Security Graduates

Today’s world is dominated by technology. Larger corporations are typically in a position where they can prosper from these developments. Unfortunately the same can’t always be said for SMEs. Instead, SMEs can be subject to opportunists using technology to take advantage of lax security measures. SMEs don’t have the finances to become a fortress against malicious cyber attacks. But is there a cost-effective solution? 

Our guide explores how SMEs can rely on cyber security graduates to strengthen their security measures without exceeding financial budgets. 

SMEs susceptibilities 

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) face many challenges, and one of those is having the necessary measures in place to thwart cyber attacks. In contrast to larger corporations, SMEs have fewer resources. They have to contend with financial constraints. Indicative of this is that 47% of SMEs do not have a budget for cyber security. This is compounded by a smaller workforce - meaning less staff dedicated to cyber security. 

Linking to the above point, SMEs tend to have employees with little to no aptitude relating to cyber security. Naturally, this means provisions for potential threats don’t always exist - only 14% of SMEs have a cyber security plan implemented.

Furthermore, the smaller pool of people with limited knowledge results in human error, which leads to cyber security attacks like phishing scams. The frequency and consequences of attacks are disconcerting: 

• Globally, almost 50% of SMBs were victims of a cyber security attack in 2023. 
• Small businesses alone account for 43% of cyber attacks per year. 
• After being attacked, 60% of small businesses closed within six months, and nearly 40% lost crucial data. 

It’s evident that cyber attacks have catastrophic ramifications for SMEs. Without a substantial budget to invest in cyber security experts, is it an unwinnable battle for smaller businesses? There is a cost-effective solution for this digital-aged duel. 

Benefits of hiring cyber security graduates

Lack of finances doesn’t mean SMEs have to be flooded with attacks. Cyber security graduates provide more than adequate safeguards against possible threats. Because of their academic background, they’re educated on the latest technologies, they’re a cost-effective choice and represent a long-term investment for businesses. Let’s explore the advantages of hiring for cyber security graduate jobs: 

Knowledge of the latest tech 

Whether the technology is in the form of attack or defence, cyber security graduates will have an up-to-date understanding. As technology develops, attacks become more sophisticated, and so do the methods deployed. Here are some examples: 

AI-Enabled attacks 

Artificial intelligence, when in the wrong hands, can have devastating effects for SMEs:

• Machine learning can be used to analyse and detect weaknesses in security systems.
• The frequency of attacks is increasing through automation. 
• According to a survey, 85% of cyber security leaders believe AI is a cause for rising attacks. 

Ransomware 

These attacks obtain victims’ files and data and demand a fee for it to be retrieved or not leaked: 

• Data is encrypted and a sum must be paid for a decryption key. 
• Between 2023 and 2024, the average fee increased by over 500%. 

Phishing 

Phishing scams are common and effective. There are several variations of phishing attacks: 

• Spearphishing: Tailored messages aimed at specific individuals.
• Vishing: Using phone calls or voice messages to extract information. 
• Smishing: Utilising text messages as phishing scams. 
• Whaling: Targeting high-profile individuals. 

Cyber graduates will be aware of these emerging threats. More importantly, they will be familiar with the technology and tools available to quell such attacks, such as: 

Advanced Threat Protection (ATP)

ATPs are designed to detect and protect against possible cyber security threats. Here are some examples:

• Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW): NGFWs implement deep packet inspection, intrusion prevention systems, and application-level filtering to provide extensive protection. 
• Extended Detection and Response (XDR): Through the correlation of endpoints, networks, and cloud environments, XDR offers a comprehensive approach to threat mitigation. 

Zero trust models 

This concept treats every device, user and network as though it cannot be trusted and requires continuous authentication and verification for access requests. Key elements include: 

• Micro-segmentation: This approach divides a network into segments to make it easier to secure.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA): Requires a user to provide two or more forms of identification to be granted access to a system, account or application. 

Cloud security 

SMEs may wish to transition to cloud-based systems. If this is the case, cyber security graduates will be proficient in the following tools: 

• Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs): These act as a buffer between users and cloud services. They enforce policies and regulate user activities. 
• Cloud Workload Protection Platforms (CWPPs): This solution protects cloud workloads like virtual machines, containers, and serverless functions. 

Deception technology 

Sometimes, attack is the best form of defence. Deception technology is the act of setting up traps to attract attackers. This could be via: 

• Breadcrumbs: Fabricated information that lures hackers to honeypots. 
• Honeypots: Imitate targets like servers and databases that appear vulnerable to entice and trap cyber attackers. 

Cost-Effective 

Cyber security recruitment needn’t be expensive, which is welcome news for SMEs - and those looking for their first cyber security graduate role. Hiring a graduate will cost considerably less than recruiting a cyber security expert with many years of experience. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a cyber security graduate is around £38,000, whereas a professional might cost around £45,000. 

It’s important not to be deterred by a perceived lack of experience by cyber security graduates. As discussed, they will provide SMEs with up-to-date knowledge of the latest industry trends and tools. In addition to having smaller salary expectations, their insight could save SMEs money by utilising their tech know-how to mitigate security risks. 

Strategies to recruit cyber security graduates 

It’s clear that SMEs must bolster within budget, and employing a cyber security graduate makes this possible, but how can they entice relevant talent? Let’s explore some possible solutions: 

Engaging job descriptions and utilising several channels 

When advertising for cyber security graduate jobs, a transparent overview of the responsibilities and skills needed must be stated. Additionally, using inclusive language is paramount as it may lead to applications from a broader talent pool. Job descriptions also serve as an opportunity to showcase the benefits of working at your SME. 

SMEs must make use of the many recruitment channels available. This could be posting on job boards dedicated to cyber security jobs, attending industry events to network, or using their social media platform to connect with potential candidates. 

Commit to development 

Graduates are keen to learn, and it’s important that SMEs nurture that enthusiasm to entice them to join their businesses. That can be done by offering cyber security graduate programmes that will allow individuals to progress their skills. There are a range of courses and certifications available: 

• QA Cyber Security Training: These courses offer certifications such as Certified Blue Team Level 2, Certified Cyber Defence Operator, and Certified Information Privacy Technologist. 
• Coursera Cybersecurity Courses: These online courses provide the following certifications: Google Cybersecurity, IBM Cybersecurity Analyst, and Microsoft Cybersecurity Analyst. 

Empowerment through technology 

Graduates will bring cyber security skills, but they’ll need the latest tools to be as effective as possible. This includes leveraging AI, and not just for mitigating security risks. AI can automate admin tasks, which frees up time for concerted efforts to be put into cyber security defences. 

Offer hybrid working 

Remote and hybrid are increasingly prevalent today, and failing to offer this may result in not attracting the talent you want. According to ISC2 data from two years ago, remote cyber security jobs accounted for a third of the roles. Moreover, 94% of businesses state that cloud technology elevates security for remote working. Aside from hybrid working, providing good working conditions and benefits is always likely to appeal to job seekers. 

Final say: How SMEs benefit by hiring cyber security graduates 

While SMEs face many obstacles to implementing preventative measures against cyber security attacks, recruiting cyber security graduates is a worthwhile consideration. They’re cost-effective and have access to the latest knowledge about tools, technologies, and threats. 

By offering upcoming industry talent cyber security graduate programmes that enhance existing skills, SMEs not only galvanise their defences but it’s a long-term investment that offers sustainable safeguards against possible attacks. Through deploying the right strategies, cyber security recruitment can be straightforward and successful. This could include providing graduates with a platform for continued learning, equipping them with adequate tools, and offering remote or hybrid working. For SMEs to future-proof, they must invest in the future of cyber security in the shape of cyber security graduates. 

We’re here to support your cyber security recruitment needs 

Hamilton Barnes was founded in 2014 with a commitment to provide exceptional service to all of our clients. Today, our dedication to headhunting the best industry talent hasn’t faltered, nor has our passion for delivering custom-centric solutions. 

Find out how we can support your business by visiting our dedicated cyber security page or contact us to connect with a team member.