In today’s digital-first workplace, U.S. organizations strive for two critical goals: boosting productivity and strengthening cybersecurity. However, these priorities often feel at odds as security teams push for tighter controls, while employees seek flexibility and autonomy to do their jobs efficiently.
The most resilient companies understand that security and enablement aren’t opposing forces. When implemented thoughtfully, cybersecurity can help empower employees rather than restrict them. This article will explore how U.S. businesses can foster a culture of trust that supports both protection and performance.
How Can Security Be a Business Ally?
Security teams are often viewed as the department of “no” by blocking tools, enforcing rigid policies, and slowing down workflows. To shift this perception, cybersecurity must evolve from enforcer to enabler.
Instead of requiring frequent password changes that frustrate users, offer secure alternatives like password managers or multi-factor authentication (MFA). Involve employees in the rollout of new tools and policies to build trust and help ensure usability.
U.S.-focused strategies:
- Host collaborative sessions between IT, security, and department leads to co-design solutions.
- Pilot new technologies with feedback loops. For example: “We’re testing a new VPN—does it impact your workflow? Let’s adjust together.”
Why Reward Awareness, Not Mistakes?
Punishing employees for clicking phishing links or reporting incidents late can lead to fear and silence. Instead, recognize and reward proactive behavior. When employees feel safe reporting issues, they are more likely to become active participants in the organization’s defense.
Research shows that employees who spend more time on cybersecurity training feel more invested in protecting their company.1 In the U.S., gamified training and bite-sized modules embedded in daily workflows can significantly improve engagement.
U.S.-focused strategies:
- Offer incentives like gift cards or extra time off for completing training or spotting phishing simulations.
- Share anonymized success stories to highlight real threats and employee impact.
- Deliver training through familiar platforms like Microsoft Teams or Slack to help boost completion rates.
How Can You Reduce Friction & Increase Adoption?
Employees will bypass security tools that slow them down. For example, requiring IT approval for every software download often leads to shadow IT, or unauthorized apps that introduce risk.
To help prevent this, design security solutions that integrate seamlessly into workflows. Tools like single sign-on (SSO) and background threat detection can reduce friction while maintaining protection.
U.S.-focused strategies:
- Audit employee pain points and replace cumbersome tools with user-friendly alternatives.
- Use Slack bots or Microsoft Teams integrations for one-click incident reporting.
Ways to Build Cross-Functional Understanding
Security teams don’t always see how their policies affect day-to-day operations. Embedding cybersecurity staff into business units—or assigning dedicated security liaisons—can improve empathy and collaboration.
This approach helps security professionals explain the “why” behind policies and gives business teams a voice in shaping solutions.
U.S.-focused strategies:
- Rotate cybersecurity staff into departments like sales or marketing to understand workflow needs.
- Assign security champions within each team to bridge communication and support adoption.
Monitor First, Enforce Later
Blanket restrictions, like blocking social media, can backfire if they disrupt legitimate business activities. Instead, start with visibility. Monitor usage patterns, educate users, and only enforce restrictions if risky behavior persists.
U.S.-focused strategies:
- Use endpoint detection tools to help identify risky behavior.
- Offer secure alternatives before enforcing bans, e.g., migrate from personal Dropbox to a secure enterprise solution.
- Communicate changes clearly and gradually to avoid resistance.
How Can You Make It Personal?
Employees engage more deeply when they understand how cybersecurity affects their personal lives. Training that connects workplace policies to personal safety—like protecting smart home devices or avoiding identity theft—drives stronger buy-in.
U.S.-focused strategies:
- Offer optional sessions on securing personal devices and accounts.
- Share real-life stories of how workplace training helped employees avoid scams at home.
Enablement Is the Strongest Defense
Secure U.S. organizations aren’t just those with the best firewalls; they’re the ones where every employee feels responsible for cybersecurity. By designing user-friendly tools, rewarding vigilance, and fostering mutual understanding, businesses can turn their workforce into a powerful line of defense.
When security is seen as an enabler, compliance stops being a chore. People stop asking, “Why are you making me do this?” and start asking, “What else can I do to help?”
Security and productivity don’t have to compete. With trust, collaboration, and thoughtful design, U.S. businesses can achieve both.
Looking to Align Cybersecurity With Workforce Enablement?
Let Forvis Mazars help you build a security strategy that supports productivity, fosters trust, and strengthens your U.S. operations. Our consulting team can gauge your current posture, identify friction points, and design user-centric, solutions-based approaches that empower your employees while helping protect your business. If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out to one of our cybersecurity professionals.
- 1“How Cybersecurity Training Lowers Risk Among Employees,” forbes.com, October 24, 2023.
2025 Cybersecurity Virtual Symposium
Join Forvis Mazars for a two-day symposium during National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, where industry leaders and professionals will tackle cybersecurity challenges and trends of 2025.