10 Effective Ways to Engage Employees in Security Training

Here at Soroka & Associates, we understand that workplace security is a big deal. Whether it’s protecting sensitive information, preventing cyberattacks, or ensuring a safe physical environment, security training can play a key role in keeping everyone safe. The problem at hand? Many employees find security training boring, confusing, or just another task on a long to-do list. How can businesses make security training more engaging, memorable, or even enjoyable? Here are ten effective ways to get your employees more actively involved in security training.

1. Make it interactive

Nobody wants to sit through a long lecture or read pages of policy documents. Instead, making your security training interactive can keep employees engaged, as well as help them retain information better. Try using the following:

• Short quizzes at the end of each section can reinforce key concepts and keep employees paying attention.
• Walk employees through real-life security scenarios so they can practice how to respond in a safe setting.
• Adding elements like leaderboards, rewards, and challenges can make training feel more like a game than a chore.

2. Use real-world examples

People tend to learn best when they can relate their training to real-life situations. Instead of just listing security threats, show how they affect people and businesses. Share real stories about things like:

• Companies that suffered massive data breaches because of simple mistakes.
• Employees who accidentally clicked on phishing emails and what happened next.
• How a lost company laptop led to leaked personal information

When employees understand that security threats are real and can happen to anyone, they’re more likely to take the training seriously.

3. Keep it short and sweet

Employees don’t want to spend hours on security training, especially if it’s filled with technical jargon and lingo. Break the training into short, digestible sessions so employees don’t feel overwhelmed. Try the following:

• Five- to ten-minute lessons focusing on one key security topic at a time.
• Quick, short videos that can explain security concepts in an engaging way.
• Instead of one long annual session, consider scheduling quick check-ins every few months to reinforce important security practices.

4. Make it relevant to their roles

Different types of employees face different types of security risks. For example, someone in HR will have different security concerns than someone in IT. Customizing security training to fit each department can make it more relevant and useful. For example:

• Sales teams could receive training on how to protect client data and recognize phishing scams.
• IT staff might receive more in-depth training on cybersecurity threats and network protection.
• Receptionists could receive lessons on visitor management and handling suspicious packages.

When your employees see how security training applies to their daily work, they’re more likely to stay engaged.

5. Encourage two-way communication

Training shouldn’t feel like a one-way lecture. Encourage your employees to ask questions, share experiences, and discuss their concerns. Some good ways to promote discussion include:

• Open Q&A sessions can give employees a chance to ask security experts about their real concerns.
• Hold small group discussions where employees can talk about security risks they may have encountered.
• Let employees submit anonymous questions or concerns about security policies without fear of judgment.

Creating an open dialogue can help your employees feel like they’re part of the solution rather than just following orders.

6. Add an element of fun

Security training doesn’t have to be boring. Adding fun elements can help your employees stay engaged and even enjoy the learning process. Try things like:

• Escape room challenges, where employees solve security-related puzzles to “escape” from a virtual scenario.
• A game-style approach where teams compete to answer security-related questions.
• Scavenger hunts where employees search for security risks in the office or in an online simulation.

Employees are more likely to remember and apply what they’ve learned when learning is enjoyable.

7. Recognize and reward participation

Employees are generally more motivated when they know their efforts are recognized. Offering rewards and incentives can encourage your employees to take security training seriously. Some ideas for this include:

• Certificates of completion that employees can put on display.
• Gift cards, extra break times, or company swag for those who complete training.
• Acknowledge those employees who do well in training or go the extra mile to report security threats.

8. Keep it current

Security threats are constantly evolving, so it’s important that training evolves with them. Regular updates ensure your employees are aware of the latest risks and best practices. Take the following into consideration:

• Share short updates or newsletters with the latest security news.
• Keep employees up to date with annual training refreshers that highlight new security policies and threats.
• Show employees new security threats and how to prevent them.

When training is current, employees remain vigilant and prepared for new security challenges.

9. Provide hands-on training

Often, the best way to learn is by doing. Giving employees hands-on experience with security tools and procedures can be a highly effective way to learn. Some hands-on training ideas include:

• Send test phishing emails to see if employees can recognize scams.
• Have employees test the strength of their own passwords using security tools.
• Practice how to respond to security threats like unauthorized visitors or lost access badges with physical security drills.

Active participation helps employees develop stronger security habits that stick with them.

10. Make security a part of your company culture

Your security training works best when it’s part of company culture rather than a one-time event. Ways to build a security-focused company culture include:

• Lead by example. When leadership follows security protocols, employees are more likely to do the same.
• Make it easy for employees to report security threats without fear of punishment.
• Launch security awareness campaigns, like posters, emails, and internal messaging, to remind employees of best practices.

When security is built into your daily operations, employees are more likely to take it seriously and remain proactive.

At Soroka & Associates, we understand the importance of workplace security. Businesses should implement training strategies that truly resonate with their employees. After all, a well-trained and engaged workforce is the best defense against security risks. If you were injured because your workplace was dangerous or employer was negligent, please call us today or submit our contact form to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our lawyers.