Written by: Charles Weaver, co-founder of MSPAlliance

As we all watch this global pandemic wreak havoc on our economies, the United States saw over 3 million unemployment claims this month. This is related to the COVID-19 outbreak. But, with every downside, there is a positive. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, by 2021, there will be approximately 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions. 

One person’s plight is another person’s opportunity. How do we match up unemployment today with solving the cybersecurity staffing gap of tomorrow? I have a few ideas. 

Source Differently

If the well is dry, look for a new one. It is no secret that MSPs have had difficulty filling positions on a consistent basis. Whether it is sales, technical, or customer support, MSP owners and operators have been fighting the staffing battle for many years. This should come as no secret as part of the reason MSPs have experienced massive growth over the last 30 years is that they have a large bench of talent available to be “lent out” to customers facing those same staffing challenges. 

Knowing there are millions of newly unemployed right now could present a timely opportunity for MSPs needing to staff up for future growth. True, these unemployed are likely not cybersecurity professionals, it nevertheless offers a chance for MSPs to onboard new team members and begin the training process. 

Particularly as many businesses are rapidly transitioning to remote work scenarios, including making dramatic changes to their business models, technology is being pushed to the limit, and MSPs need more help. 

Small Business Loans Are Coming

If you live in the United States, a massive economic bill was just passed to get liquidity into the small business sector. Part of that legislative package includes the ability for small businesses to obtain federally backed loans (delivered through banks) for necessary business operational expenses, including payroll and expansion. 

Significant changes are underway in the United States and around the world. Organizations are being forced to rethink almost everything they do. As many industries are reluctantly laying off workers, MSPs need more people to meet the demand they are facing. 

This could be the silver lining in an otherwise unpleasant situation.