How CPD (Continuous Professional Development) helps advance your career in security
CPD covers the wide range of activities aimed at improving professional practice and knowledge, which as well as formal training and education can include workshops, seminars, and informal learning experiences such as mentoring, reading professional magazines like this one, and on-the-job training. Most security professions consider it an essential part of their responsibilities, ensuring that they remain knowledgeable and effective in their roles.
The Security Institute encourages its members to continually develop their skills and knowledge to adapt to an evolving industry. Members are challenged to achieve a minimum of 36 CPD points annually to advance from Member (MSyI) to Fellow (FSyI) status, demonstrating their commitment to professional growth.
As well as maintaining knowledge of security-related matters, to deliver effective security, professionals must maintain a broad understanding of current affairs, technology, cultural sensitivities, and problem-solving techniques. The global landscape presents numerous challenges, including wars, conflicts, climate change, and increasing reliance on IT, all of which contribute to a complex security environment. Staying informed about emerging threats, such as cyber security issues and organised crime, is crucial for effective security management.
Expert advice
Angela Lawson: CPD should be welcomed as a necessity rather than a hindrance. It is a brilliant and cost-effective way to improve knowledge of an existing topic or to increase awareness of something new; this can often lead to a new personal or professional interest. CPD has become a favourable method of skill enhancement, knowledge improvement and career advancement, and a vehicle for maintaining a professional membership.
CPD can prelude a more intense qualification, or a short, intense learning opportunity can have an immediate impact in the workplace. Organisations like the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) encapsulate the process very well in a four-stage cycle of reflection: do I need it; planning – when will I do it; action – consider what, when, where; and finally, evaluate the learning process. Today, there is no excuse not to be informed and share that learning with others. Access to a wide range of free CPD opportunities is plentiful through training providers, government bodies, such as the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), the Protect UK app, digital education platforms like FutureLearn, or via one of the membership organisations.
Karol Doherty: Like other professions, you must engage in Continuous Professional Development (CPD) to continue practising. To quote Charles Swanson CSyP: “You hire a worker for their work ethic, but you hire a professional for their knowledge.” If security professionals don’t keep up with the ever-changing threat landscape through CPD, they won’t know how to mitigate risks to their organisation because they won’t be aware of the latest tools and strategies available in the market.
