Time and again, CISOs tell us that their number one challenge is a lack of organizational buy-in.

Security professionals today have the talent, training, and experience to secure their organizations. The tools they need are generally affordable and widely accessible.

Often, the missing piece is simply the commitment and investment from the rest of the C-suite.

Well, here are 6 strategies security professionals can use to build stronger support from executives, board members, and employees:

Six Strategies For Increased Buy-In

1. Align Cybersecurity with Business Goals
To gain buy-in, CISOs need to frame cybersecurity initiatives as enablers of business objectives rather than as cost centers. By demonstrating how strong security measures protect revenue, safeguard intellectual property, and ensure business continuity, CISOs can communicate the value of cybersecurity in terms executives understand. For example, highlighting how a data breach could erode customer trust and lead to significant financial loss can make security investments seem more essential.

2. Use Risk-Based Language
CISOs should communicate in terms of risk rather than technical jargon. By quantifying potential risks (e.g., "a 5% chance of a $2 million breach"), they can make the case for security spending in a language that resonates with financial leaders. Explaining how security measures reduce specific risks, rather than focusing on technical details, helps non-technical executives grasp the stakes involved.

3. Leverage Metrics and KPIs
Tracking and sharing key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cybersecurity performance can help CISOs show measurable progress. Metrics such as time to detect/respond to incidents, reduction in phishing susceptibility, or compliance with industry regulations help demonstrate the effectiveness of cybersecurity efforts. This data-driven approach can make a compelling case for further investment.

4. Cultivate Relationships with Key Stakeholders
CISOs need to build strong relationships with the C-suite and board members. Regular, non-technical briefings that highlight the cybersecurity landscape and its implications for the business can increase trust and open dialogue. In addition, engaging department heads and getting their input on cybersecurity priorities can ensure that security efforts are seen as collaborative and beneficial to the organization as a whole.

5. Share Industry Threat Data
Providing examples of recent cyberattacks affecting competitors or other industry players can help illustrate the urgency of cybersecurity investments. By using real-world scenarios, such as breaches or ransomware incidents, CISOs can show how failure to act could expose the organization to significant financial and reputational harm.

6. Frame Cybersecurity as a Competitive Advantage
In highly regulated industries or customer-focused sectors, robust cybersecurity can be marketed as a competitive differentiator. CISOs can help the organization view security as part of its value proposition, reassuring customers and partners that their data is protected. For example, demonstrating compliance with SOC 2 or ISO 27001 can build trust and differentiate the company from less secure competitors.

Summary

By aligning cybersecurity with business goals, simplifying communications around risk, and showing tangible results through metrics and examples, CISOs can increase organizational buy-in and secure the resources necessary to protect the company from evolving threats.

As one CISO described it, "the most effective strategy for getting leadership on board with our cybersecurity initiatives was aligning our goals with the company's broader objectives. When I showed how improving our security posture could directly reduce downtime and increase customer confidence, the conversation shifted. I also made a point to use real-world examples of similar companies facing serious breaches. By sharing stories of how these incidents impacted revenue and reputation, I was able to present cybersecurity not as a cost, but as a safeguard for long-term success."

About Silent Breach: Silent Breach is an award-winning provider of cyber security services. Our global team provides cutting-edge insights and expertise across the Data Center, Enterprise, SME, Retail, Government, Finance, Education, Automotive, Hospitality, Healthcare and IoT industries.