When you think about those people in your career who have challenged you to develop into the best version of yourself, many admirable qualities likely come to mind. These people may have varying titles that spread across many different ranges of the cybersecurity landscape. A great leader is not created by a position held. An entry level cybersecurity professional can be a great leader in his current role, just as much as a seasoned professional can. A great leader is the result of someone who takes great pride in bringing others along for the enriching climb up the ladder to success. This climb often leads to new discoveries, advancements, and shared achievements. So what does it take to develop into such a dynamic leader? How does one go from getting a cybersecurity degree to becoming an influencer in the field? It takes the desire to learn and grow leadership skills that will inspire others.

1. UMBC Cybersecurity
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6 Leadership Skills for Cybersecurity Professionals

2. UMBC Cybersecurity
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Self Awareness
When a leader knows what matters most to a team, they can help develop
momentum and create a motivating atmosphere that keeps everyone in the
game to win.
• Know what drives you.
• Become acutely aware of how it feels to enter that creative zone and how to
stay there.
• Play to your greatest strengths and the value they bring to your team
members.
• Be honest about your weaknesses.

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Integrity
Of all the qualities that cybersecurity teams expect their leaders to have,
integrity is right up there next to self-awareness.
• Operate the same way you expect others to act.
• Model appropriate actions for a team to set the standard and create the
motivation for all to uphold them.

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Clear and Concise Communication
Communicating effectively is the pinnacle of good management in any
circumstance.
• Clearly communicate objectives, strategies, and feedback with the rest of
your team.
• Encourage team members to voice their thoughts candidly and openly.
• Employees who feel comfortable speaking honestly about their concerns
will undoubtedly prove to be more productive and loyal to the team.

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Optimistic Outlook
Positivity is contagious. By modeling an optimistic perspective, you will achieve
career success while also making the office a much happier place.
• Be welcoming to team members as they turn to you for reassurance or to
share an innovative idea.
• Exhibit a sense of control in any given situation and provide a voice of
reason in stressful times.
• Always be on the lookout for ways to cultivate a consistently positive
workplace culture.

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Passion
As an influential leader, be very obvious about the passion you hold for the work
you do.
• Be vocal about your commitment to the organization’s goals.
• Stress the importance of the critical work your team does.
• Validate the efforts of all involved in a project.
• Share your enthusiasm. Doing so boosts office morale and encourages
others to act the same way.

7. UMBC Cybersecurity
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Focused Relationships
Great leaders get along with everyone in the corporate seam.
• Take a personal interest in the lives and motivations of those you work
alongside.
• Build and nurture working relationships that foster a culture of shared work
priorities and vision.
• Take the time to make sure that every member of your team feels valued.

8. UMBC Cybersecurity
Graduate Programs
umbc.edu/cyber
If you’re looking to grow as a leader in the cybersecurity field, consider
a master’s degree or graduate certificate in cybersecurity from UMBC.
umbc.edu/cyber