Rate Yourself Against the Security Leader of the Future

Mar 12, 2008 10:50 AM

The self-assessment tool lists 65 knowledge elements that can enhance the success of a security leader today. The skills fall under six general “knowledge streams” that produce six different kinds of value for businesses.

Law enforcement and military backgrounds, for example, provide knowledge of investigations and prosecutions. IT security skills help in protection of critical information in both digital and printed formats. Business backgrounds help to align security value and business goals. A background career in corporate security ensures a security leader's intimate knowledge of a company. Executive leadership skills produce a focus on business results. Awareness of emerging issues helps to maintain situational readiness.

How well do you and your staff stack up to the security leader of the future?

Evaluate yourself against each of the skills noted on the chart. Give yourself three points for skills that you already possess (rate E for expert). Give yourself two points for skills that you can brush up on pretty quickly (rate A for adequate). For a skill that needs improvement, score 1 point (I for needs improvement). If there is a skill that you have no experience with and know nothing about, mark down a zero (M for missing).

When you finish, count up your points. Give yourself an additional one point up to a maximum of five points for every year of experience you have in one of the following fields: law enforcement, IT, business and security.

Divide your score by 2 to get your “Next Generation” score.

Those scoring 90 to 100 points can consider themselves ready to take on the challenges of 21st century security. A score from 80 to 89 points limits the role and level of your position in the organization. If you scored below 80, you may be risking your future. You should take steps now to expand your range of skills.

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© 2012 Penton Media Inc.

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