It’s no secret that security pros operate under immense pressure on multiple fronts. And from industry studies to academic research, there is growing evidence that they are burning out – some at a rapid rate. Without help and interventions to protect them, are we approaching a precipice of unacceptable risk? Isn’t it also fair to ask: have we reached a point where it is time to recognize their unique job demands and do something about it?
As a practicing executive and organizational coach and researcher, I recently completed a year-long research study attempting to find an answer to the question: What impact can executive coaching have in mitigating burnout for cybersecurity professionals?
My study explores this exact question, analyzing how executive coaching can be a strategic intervention for organizations with high-pressure tech roles. The study, entitled “From Burnout to Resilience: Executive Coaching as a Strategic Intervention in Cybersecurity Workforces”, evaluated the efficacy of executive coaching and its utilitarian properties in areas such as the development of emotional and cognitive resilience strategies; the long-term management of stress; how coaching may help individuals reframe beliefs and behaviours; and much more.
Over the next while, I’ll be sharing key findings, practical takeaways, and bold ideas from my research. This is not just a conversation about burnout—this is about building resilient, emotionally intelligent, high-performing teams that thrive in complexity and in high-risk environments.
The technology industry has created so many positive changes over the past 30 or so years, but it has also contributed to a culture of overwork and heightened stress—especially for those on the front lines of digital defence. The key findings from this study lay the groundwork for more exploration into how we can better manage burnout in the workplace. Let’s turn insight into impact.
➡️ Follow this series if you care about:
- Cybersecurity and tech talent
- Sustainable leadership
- Emotional intelligence and resilience
- Organizational performance