4 best ways to train your team and get them certified
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On-demand training library: Tailored training for your team's needs
An on-demand training library is a comprehensive collection of training resources. Those resources can include pre-recorded videos, practice exams, labs and exercises covering various topics and certifications — but the exact materials vary depending on the training provider you choose.
This library approach provides your team with customized learning resources tailored to their specific needs, all accessible through a single vendor.
As a manager, upskilling your team is crucial to ensuring they have the latest knowledge and skills to excel in their roles. Certifications are vital in validating these skills and demonstrating proficiency to stakeholders. However, choosing the right training method for your team can be challenging, considering the various learning modalities, costs, training timelines and employee training preferences.
This guide is here to help you. We’ll break down the four most popular methods — from on-demand training to in-depth live boot camps. But this isn't a one-size-fits-all situation — your team can use one, some or all, depending on their learning styles and the support level needed to hit their goals.
Read on to assess which training method is best for your team.
On-demand training library: Tailored training for your team's needs
An on-demand training library is a comprehensive collection of training resources. Those resources can include pre-recorded videos, practice exams, labs and exercises covering various topics and certifications — but the exact materials vary depending on the training provider you choose.
This library approach provides your team with customized learning resources tailored to their specific needs, all accessible through a single vendor.
Benefits of an on-demand library
With an on-demand library, you can assign different training paths to team members based on their roles and goals. For example, one group could focus on the Security+ certification, while others pursue certifications more aligned with their specializations, such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or PenTest+.
Beyond certifications, libraries often include courses and labs on emerging security threats, best practices and new technologies. This allows your team to continuously learn and stay ahead of the curve, even if obtaining a specific certification isn't the immediate goal. For example, different team members could simultaneously learn:
- Applied ChatGPT for Cybersecurity
- MITRE ATT&CK Privilege Escalation
- Network Traffic Analysis for Incident Response
- Risk Assessments with NIST 800-30 Rev. 1
Compared to purchasing individual courses for each team member or paying for interaction with a live instructor, on-demand libraries offer a more economical way to train your entire team. You'll get access to a wider range of training materials at a lower overall cost.
Using the library approach, your team can explore several learning paths before committing to one. As a result, they can avoid investing too much time studying for a certification or a new skill that might not be right for them.
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Considerations for on-demand library
While an on-demand library offers many advantages, it's important to weigh these against potential drawbacks:
- On-demand libraries lack direct support from live instructors or peer interaction, which may be a drawback for team members who prefer collaborative learning.
- Since on-demand training lacks structured schedules, you as a manager may need to set clear expectations, timelines and accountability measures to ensure your team stays on track with their learning objectives.
- The self-paced nature of on-demand libraries can lead to a slower pace of learning compared to structured programs. Factor this in when setting training deadlines for your team.
Self-assessment question: Does your team possess the self-discipline and motivation to learn independently using pre-recorded materials, or do they require more structured guidance, support and accountability measures?
Self-paced boot camp: Guided learning for success
For teams seeking a more structured approach with professional guidance to certification preparation —without the intensity of a live boot camp — a self-paced boot camp offers a balanced solution.
Benefits of self-paced boot camps
Self-paced boot camps provide structured learning for your team without forcing them to commit to a pre-set schedule that might not fit their busy lives. Depending on the needs of each employee and the organization, they can train at night, on the weekends or during working hours.
Self-paced boot camps typically target a specific certification, offering a curriculum to prepare your employees to pass that exam. Although it’s an individual boot camp, it’s possible to enroll several members of your team at once. This will allow them to progress through the boot camp in unison, learn from each other, share insights and create a supportive study environment.
While not live, self-paced boot camps offer a level of support unavailable in on-demand libraries through forums, email or even designated office hours for live Q&A sessions.
Considerations of self-paced boot camps
While there are many benefits to self-paced boot camps, you should consider the following before you decide they are the best fit for your team:
- "Self-paced" does not equate to "effortless." Ensure your team members have dedicated time in their schedules to absorb the coursework and complete the training effectively.
- While structured, self-paced boot camps generally take longer to complete than intensive live options. Factor this in when setting realistic certification deadlines for your team.
- Although multiple employees can take the boot camp at the same time, self-paced boot camps lack the benefits of a live environment, such as interacting with peers and asking live questions.
Self-assessment question: Does your team require more guided instruction and support than an on-demand library can provide but cannot commit to the intensive schedule of a live boot camp? If so, a self-paced boot camp may be the ideal balance, offering focused certification preparation with flexible scheduling and instructor support.
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Live boot camps: Intensive training for rapid certification prep
Live boot camps are intensive, instructor-led training programs that provide an immersive learning experience designed to rapidly prepare your team for certification exams, typically in three to seven days. And "live" can mean in-person at a training facility, virtually via a platform like Zoom or even onsite at your own location.
Benefits of live boot camps
One of the biggest advantages of live cybersecurity boot camps is that they usually offer everything your team needs in one comprehensive package. This can include preparatory materials, live instruction, additional training resources like books and hands-on labs, practice exams, the voucher to take the exam and more. This all-in-one known cost can help as you budget your training.
Another major benefit is direct access to an expert instructor. This allows your team to ask questions in the moment, seek guidance and fast-track their learning. The live environment also offers engaging discussions with their peers that can provide fresh perspectives, diverse insights and a wealth of shared knowledge. The structured, accelerated approach of a live boot camp is designed to keep your team focused and get them certified quickly.
However, a boot camp is like drinking from a fire hose for three to seven days, so it may not be effective if your team is not ready for that kind of environment. Some providers like Infosec offer an Exam Pass Guarantee, so anyone who fails the exam can retake both the exam and the live boot camp at no extra cost.
Considerations for live boot camps
Some things to keep in mind when considering live boot camps include:
- They likely cost more than alternative self-guided learning options.
- To attend a boot camp, team members may have to spend time away from work and their family — or focus for an extended period if you choose a virtual training option.
- The short timeframe may not be the best format for employees new to the material and who need more time to absorb the concepts.
Self-assessment question: Is your team prepared for an intense, focused learning experience that requires dedicated time away from their regular duties? Are you willing to invest in the potentially higher costs associated with live boot camps to provide your team with a comprehensive and accelerated certification preparation experience?
Immersive boot camps: Accelerated career development
Looking to equip your team with comprehensive cybersecurity skills that go beyond focused certification prep? Immersive boot camps are designed for transformational reskilling, propelling your team toward career advancement and confidence in their cybersecurity expertise.
Benefits of immersive boot camps
An immersive boot camp combines live and self-paced instruction, but the major difference is the length. A live certification boot camp is less than a week; whereas an immersive boot camp often lasts six months or more. For example, Infosec's Cybersecurity Foundations Immersive Boot Camp covers 500+ hours of training over 26 weeks.
That’s because an immersive boot camp has a different goal than a traditional boot camp. Although certification is often included, the goal is more about transforming employee skill sets. Your team will have time to sit with the materials, get personalized guidance from an instructor and build hands-on experience.
Immersive boot camps create a nurturing environment where your team can gradually build their confidence and expertise — one week at a time.
Considerations for immersive boot camps
Keep these factors in mind when considering an immersive boot camp:
- Immersive programs require a long-term time investment. Ensure your team members can commit to this and balance it with their regular workload.
- They represent a substantial financial investment. Weigh the benefits against your budget and the need for transformational training.
- These programs thrive on active participation and practical application. Your team must be committed to learning to truly transform their skill sets.
Self-assessment question: Is your team eager to take their cybersecurity expertise to the next level and commit to an in-depth learning program? Do you see value in investing in their long-term career development? If so, immersive boot camps offer a powerful path toward achieving these goals.
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The best cybersecurity training for your team
As a manager, finding the right training solution for your team is crucial for their professional growth and the overall success of your organization. By understanding the unique needs and learning styles of your team, you can choose the most effective training method to achieve your goals.
To help decide which training method is the best fit for your team, consider the following questions:
- What are your team's learning preferences? Are they more self-motivated and comfortable learning independently, or do they thrive in interactive, guided environments?
- Does your team have a flexible schedule? Can they dedicate time to intensive training sessions, or do they need the flexibility of self-paced learning?
- What are your immediate goals? Are you looking for quick certification preparation, or is your focus on comprehensive skill development and upskilling?
- What is your budget? What resources are available for training investments, and how can you maximize the return on that investment?
The path you choose will lay the foundation of your team's continuous growth and success in cybersecurity. Committing to a training strategy that fosters professional development is not just an investment in your team's capabilities — it's an investment in the security and progress of your entire organization.
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