97 Things Every Information Security Professional Should Know

Chapter 52. Finding Your Voice

Maresa Vermulst

Within an organization, it can be difficult to find your voice. There are many different styles of communication; people operate at different levels within an organization with their own priorities and lingo. Besides, we all have our prejudices and biases. Especially when pressure builds, these differences in communication can become a major factor in building frustration between people.

Miscommunication can cause detrimental effects on relationships within the team and have negative effects on projects (flaws, missed improvements because ideas were not heard, etc.) but also have a big impact on your own well-being and mental health. Having nobody to hear you can make you feel powerless. This can be a contributing factor for burnout.

How can you make yourself heard within an organization or in a team? Does it feel sometimes like you must yell before other people take notice of you?

Over the years people have shared some practical tips with me that I now, in turn, would like to share with you:

Learn their language.

Every department has its own lingo. When trying to communicate a data breach to someone from marketing, for example, emphasize the effect this can have on brand image. Don’t go into technical details or possible legal ramifications; start with what is relevant for their field.

When voicing your concerns to C-levels point ...